Are there germs on your soap bar?
Elaine L. Larson, Ph.D., associate dean for research and professor of epidemiology in nursing at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health was recently asked if bars of soap are covered in germs. Her answer was as follows.
The truth behind germs on your soap:
Like most surfaces on the planet, there are germs on your soap bars.
However, it is very unlikely that these germs will cause you harm or bring on an infection. Only those with compromised immune systems should be concerned and should switch to liquid soap. If you are in good health, you will be fine using both bar soap and liquid soap.
Bacteria can live in the slime that is formed on soap bars. Simply rinsing the bar before using it will get rid of the germs on your soap. Make sure not to store soap in the bathtub, but store it in a dry place instead. Germs are attracted to moist environments, so storing soap in a dry place will help prevent germs.
If you are sharing the soap bar with family members, you should have nothing to worry about, as you most likely share the same microorganisms anyway.
If you are in a situation where a public restroom only has bar soap, make sure to rinse of the bar very well, and wash your hands very well, for about 20-30 seconds. If you wash your hands for long enough, all the germs will wash off as well.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “Ask a Scientist: Are Bars of Soap Covered In Germs?” YouBeauty. YouBeauty, 12 Dec. 2014. Web. 03 Jan. 2015.
2. “The Gross Truth About The Germs On Your Bar Of Soap.” The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 24 Dec. 2014. Web. 03 Jan. 2015.
