Bonners Ferry Local Guide including all of Boundary County Idaho

Hand Sanitizers vs. Soap & Water

Monday, January 29, 2007; KTVB

Hand sanitizers are everywhere: in stores, health clubs and even restaurants. But are they really better than good old fashioned soap and water? A new study put both to the test. Many people use sanitizers to get rid of germs on their hands, but a new report shows washing your hands with soap and water is just as effective as antibacterial gels, if done correctly, with Thorough washing of both sides, according to Dr. Paul Pepe. "Some say to rub it vigorously and some say just to put it on your hands and let it air dry," said one person. The alcohol-based hand sanitizers are convenient. "I work in a bank so money is kind of dirty so I use the hand sanitizer frequently. Sometimes they smell a little, I smell a little odor but I think they are just as fine as soap and water," said another user. But new study shows that washing your hands with soap and water for 15 seconds is just as effective as the antibacterial soaps. "Good old hand washing is really great, Pepe said. Soap really kills a lot of germs, everything from bacteria to even viruses, even flu viruses." Whether you use the hand sanitizers or soap and water, what's important is being thorough, getting between the crevices, fingers, and thumbs. - Full Story