The FDA says that there’s no substantial proof that antibacterial soap is more effective than regular soap

Deciding whether to purchase antibacterial soap or dishwashing liquid? While the antibacterial versions of soap or dishwashing liquid typically cost more than the regular versions, the FDA (The United States Food and Drug Administration), as of 2021, maintains their stance that there isn’t any substantial proof that anti-bacterial soap is more effective at killing germs than regular soap or dishwashing liquid.

In fact, in 2019, the FDA ruled that manufacturers of certain anti-bacterial soaps can no longer market anti-bacterial soaps containing the active ingredients. According to the FDA, “the manufacturers had not proven that those ingredients are safe for daily use over a long period of time. Also, manufacturers haven’t shown that these ingredients are any more effective than plain soap and water in preventing illnesses and the spread of certain infections.”