Washing Warning

"From the penthouse to the outhouse":
metaphorically, but not literally

In our house bathroom-sink soap bars have been replaced by dispensers filled with antibacterial soap, but that move is not only costly but also could be physically harmful:

Scientists at the Food and Drug Administration announced Monday [December 16] that they are revisiting the safety of triclosan and other sanitizing agents found in soap in countless kitchens and bathrooms. Recent studies suggest triclosan and similar substances can interfere with hormone levels in lab animals and spur the growth of drug-resistant bacteria.

Until the science becomes conclusive, we'll finish the bottles in inventory, then go back to washing with plain old soap and hot water. [Note that hand sanitizers, which have ethyl alcohol as the active ingredient, are currently judged safe.]