Numerous household products contain antibacterial agents
These products are labelled as antibacterial,
antiseptic or antimicrobial and are everywhere. They include:
- Soaps and detergents
- Hand lotions
- Disinfectants
- Window cleaners
- Cleaning cloths
- Surface sprays
- Mouthwashes
- Toothpastes
- Garbage bags and plastic wrap
- Textiles and carpet underlay.
Many of these products contain antibacterial agents
such as triclosan. These ingredients are valuable in hospitals and other
healthcare settings, but their effectiveness could be compromised by
unnecessary domestic use. Their widespread use in the home could make some
bacteria resistant to these antibacterial substances.