Antibacterial soap can disrupt hormones

You may have heard of the ingredient triclosan - it's commonly used in antibacterial soaps and even some toothpastes. Earlier this year, triclosan received some negative press for its part in creating antibiotic-resistant germs. Also, when triclosan mixes with the chlorine found in most tap water it creates chloroform, which is not something I want to be exposing my skin to several times a day.

Just in case these stories weren't enough to get you to ditch the antibacterial soap, here's one more reason. A new study discovered that triclosan is also a synthetic endocrine disruptor, which means that it can disrupt the body's hormone-signaling system. Washing with plain soap and water usually leaves your hands plenty clean, but if you feel you need something more, alcohol-based sanitizers are a safer alternative to triclosan soaps.