What's Really in Germ-Killing Wipes
Quats are everywhere in wipes and foaming soaps. Here's what to know, and what still works.
Transcript
What's actually in germ-killing wipes and foaming hand soap? Often, benzalkonium chloride, the most common of a family called quats. Quats can irritate skin, and they're known triggers of work-related asthma. For everyday hands, the CDC recommends plain soap and water whenever it's available. Our Body Bar is true cold process soap, made from plant oils. Real soap still works.
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Benzalkonium Chloride and Quats in Hand Soaps and Wipes
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Key points from the full guide
- Quats are a family of antimicrobial chemicals, and benzalkonium chloride is the most common in personal care.
- The FDA deferred a final decision on benzalkonium chloride in consumer hand washes and sanitizers pending more data.
- Quats can irritate skin and are recognized triggers of work related asthma, especially in cleaning products.
- Researchers are studying whether heavy quat use contributes to bacteria becoming less sensitive to disinfectants and antibiotics.
- For everyday hand hygiene, the CDC recommends plain soap and water whenever it is available.
Read the full guide: Benzalkonium Chloride and Quats in Hand Soaps and Wipes