The American Cleaning Institute (ACI) agrees that antibiotic resistance is a global public health issue that demands rigorous, evidence-based solutions.
However, a recent Viewpoint article published in Environmental Science & Technology – which reflects the authors’ perspective rather than presenting new research – suggests that antibacterial soaps, disinfecting wipes, sprays, and related products provide “no added health benefit” and should be broadly restricted. Such claims oversimplify a complex issue and overlook the well-established role these products play in infection prevention.
Public health authorities consistently recognize that the overuse and overprescription of antibiotic drug products in medical care and overuse in agriculture are the primary drivers of antibiotic resistance worldwide. Any effective strategy to combat antibiotic resistance must remain focused on these dominant contributors. Shifting disproportionate attention toward regulated consumer products risks distracting from the interventions that will deliver the greatest public health impact.
Antibacterial and disinfecting products are subject to rigorous, science-based regulatory review in the United States, with clear standards for safety, efficacy, and appropriate use.
These products are designed for targeted applications – particularly on hard, nonporous surfaces and in higher risk settings.
Similarly, antibacterial soaps provide situational benefits when used as intended – such as in higher risk environments, during outbreaks, or in homes and facilities caring for infants, older adults, and immune-compromised individuals. In these contexts, products formulated to reduce microbial contamination can serve as an additional layer of hygiene and risk reduction alongside routine handwashing, responsible cleaning, and other public health measures.
ACI and its member companies have invested for decades in research on antimicrobial chemistries, resistance and real-world use patterns. Sound policy must be grounded in the totality of evidence, including real-world exposure and use – and an appropriate risk benefit balance – and not on selective laboratory findings taken out of context.
Addressing antibiotic resistance requires nuance, proportionality, and scientific rigor. Blanket recommendations to phase out entire categories of consumer products, without regard to their regulated uses and demonstrated benefits, do not advance public health and risk undermining effective hygiene and infection prevention practices.
Learn more about the antibacterial soaps on ACI’s website: www.cleaninginstitute.org/antibacterial-soap-benefits.
The American Cleaning Institute® (ACI – www.cleaninginstitute.org) is the Home of the U.S. Cleaning Products Industry® and represents the $60 billion U.S. cleaning product supply chain. ACI members include the manufacturers and formulators of soaps, detergents, and general cleaning products used in household, commercial, industrial and institutional settings; companies that supply ingredients and finished packaging for these products; and chemical distributors. ACI serves the growth and innovation of the U.S. cleaning products industry by advancing the health and quality of life of people and protecting our planet. ACI achieves this through a continuous commitment to sound science and being a credible voice for the cleaning products industry.