Antibacterial household wipes could be a waste of money

By Abigail Mellier, May 7th, 2013 | Lifestyle | 0 Comments

There are few differences between households who do use antibacterial products and those which do not.
Household cleaners, such as surface wipes, healthcare products and food containers containing antibacterial compounds have become increasingly popular. They often contain chemicals like triclosan and quaternary ammonium compounds which leave a residue where they are used. This is meant to kill any bacteria, and protect people from infection.

But there is concern that the casual, everyday use of such products could encourage the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine surveyed 38 households in the local area for bacteria. They found wide variation but no significant difference in antibiotic resistance in households which did, and did not, use antibacterial products. The most bacteria were found in kitchen sponges and in sink and bathtub drains. The households that used antibacterials were no freer from germs than those that didn’t - leading to the conclusion that while these products do no harm, they’re probably a waste of money.