Over the last 20 years, antibacterial products have popped up in everything from soaps and toothpaste, to clothes and toys. In soaps with antibacterial agents, the most common active ingredient is triclosan. In hospitals, triclosan has been proven effective in preventing hospital-acquired infections – but at home? Many studies have found it works no better than basic soap and water.
Researchers have raised concerns about triclosan and its link to dioxins, which are highly carcinogenic chemicals that can cause severe health problems such as weakening of the immune system, decreased fertility, altered sex hormones and cancer. Triclosan is also a likely endocrine disrupter that interferes with thyroid function. Lastly, recent studies have raised the concern that triclosan may promote the emergence of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics – a real problem with people with comprised immune systems. {source}.
I really wanted to pass on this info from Healthy Bitch Daily. They explain perfectly why there is debate and concern over the widespread use of antibacterial products in homes today.
Looking for a company with natural yet really effective alternatives to antibacterial products containing triclosan? Check out CLEAN WELL. Target is even carrying it these days!
style'n
/ September 19, 2010will certainly check out clean well esp since I can find it at Target!
PriscilaPetersDecor
/ September 19, 2010Hi, Annie
Keeping your space clean is always a good idea. I really try hard to keep my home always clean. Thank you for your tip.
Absolutely Ladylike
/ September 20, 2010Thanks for the great tips…this post reminds me of my big fall cleaning in my house…which I tried to push as much as I could but I think now it’s really time… :-)
Happy Monday.
Cheers: Evi
Alleen
/ September 20, 2010Great to know…especially with all the kids we have here on a daily basis. And it’s at Target which is definitely convenient.
Alleen
NIKKI
/ September 20, 2010I dont think my other comment posted!
I always remember you telling me this when I go to use antibacterial lotions!!!
love you!!!
xxxxx
Jude
/ September 20, 2010I love these tips and so true how important it is to just keep things clean and avoid the nastier antibacterial agents. Thanks so much for sharing – I’m checking out that line at my next Target trip!
Dawn {The Alternative Wife}
/ September 20, 2010You’re 100% correct! I work in the beauty industry and have developed anti-bacterial products for a few different lines. I’m very against using triclosan and really any other antibacterial product for that matter. We were given an immune system for a reason. But if you must use antibacterial products it’s best to use a safer, more natural alternative. Fabulous post, sweetie :) xoxo
The Owl's Closet
/ September 20, 2010Thanks so much for sharing this enlightening article! I must admit that I use antibacterial hand gels quite regularly. Looks like I need to make a switch!:)
TheOwlsCloset.blogspot.com
Diana
/ September 20, 2010That is such a great and so important post for us all…Thanks darling…I will look into that brand:)
Happy Monday
Carrie
/ September 20, 2010This is a great post, Annie. My mother ripped me a new one on this very topic a couple years ago when I was all about anti-bacterial soaps. She works in a hospital and takes all these classes, but is also a natural health nut. I always think of her when I find out info…now will think of you too!!
Thanks for sharing.
xoxo,
Carrie
Valerie
/ September 20, 2010This is so interesting! Gabe’s a doctor and always telling me the exact same thing. Thanks for all the info! I’m definitely going to check out the Clean Well products. And thank you so much for your comment on my wedding photos. My dress was Monique Lhuillier. Here’s a post that shows the entire dress.
http://redvinesforbreakfast.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-anniversary.html
xo
Valerie
Punctuation Mark
/ September 20, 2010i didn’t know about that ingredient… that’s scary and thanks for letting everyone know!!!
Elle Sees
/ September 21, 2010I’m so paranoid to use anti-bac since I read the article on how germs are becoming resistant and how some brands really show no difference in germs vs. reg soap. but still i buy it!
Victoria (Mommy Is Green)
/ September 21, 2010I can’t believe how many different products contain Triclosan. It’s truly alarming. Thanks for spreading the word!
I haven’t used Clean Well’s soap yet, but I sure do love their hand sanitizers.
Café Bellini
/ September 22, 2010That’s scary! Thanks for letting us know.
Krystal/Village
/ September 22, 2010there’s always some kind of buzz about these! thanks for the info!