ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Antibacterial soap

Antibacterial soap is like a super soap that is specially made to kill germs and bacteria that make you sick. You know how you wash your hands with soap to make sure they are clean? Antibacterial soap is even better than regular soap because it has special ingredients that kill off any germs or bacteria that might be hiding on your skin.

These special ingredients are called antibacterial agents. They are added to soap during the manufacturing process to make them more effective at killing germs. Some of the most common antibacterial agents used in soap include triclosan and benzalkonium chloride.

When you use antibacterial soap to wash your hands, for example, the antibacterial agents get to work immediately, attacking any harmful bacteria it comes into contact with. This makes it an excellent option to use when you want to make sure your hands are free from germs and bacteria, which can cause diseases and illness.

However, some experts say that using antibacterial soap may not be necessary for everyday use because not all bacteria are harmful, and using such soap could kill off beneficial bacteria too. Therefore, it’s important to use it when you're exposed to harmful bacteria, such as before and after handling raw meats and after using the bathroom.

So remember, antibacterial soap is like a superhero soap that helps to protect you from germs and bacteria that can make you sick. But don't overuse it, as it could also harm good bacteria that keep you healthy!
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