You might be aware of the controversy around the widespread use of antibacterial soaps and the concern that they may create drug-resistant strains of bacteria. More recent research is also suggesting thattriclocarban, a common additive in many antibacterial soaps and deodorants, has an unusual effect on hormones. This chemical is considered to be one of the suspected "endocrine disruptors" that may interfere with human sex hormones and reproductive development, causing reduced fertility, early puberty and increases in breast, ovarian and prostate cancers.

Another chemical under scrutiny is triclosan, also found in some antibacterial soaps. While it is thought to be safe for most people, research suggests that it might cause subtle harm to humans in critical developmental stages including in utero, early childhood and adolescence. It has been named as a target for further research into the environmental contributors to autism.

Manufacturers of antibacterial soap products, of course, claim that their products are safe and have been thoroughly tested for human use.

Studies show that these chemicals are being dumped into the environment at an alarming rate, with more than one million pounds of triclosan and triclocarban coming from use in America alone. And with a recent CDC study detecting triclosan in the urine of 75% of Americans aged 6 and older, we can't deny that these chemicals are entering our bodies.

In my household, we have stopped using all antibacterial products. I have found a natural product that fights germs and bacteria and does not contain any potentially dangerous chemicals. CleanWell is made with "Igenium," a plant-based essential oil formula that claims to kill 99.99% of germs, including MRSA (staph), E.coli and salmonella on contact.

The CleanWell story is touching. The product was developed by a family with a child who has a rare disease that causes severe immunodeficiency. Since his immune system only functions at about 10%, they needed to protect Conor from exposure to germs but did not want to expose his fragile system to harsh chemicals. After eight years of research and development, they patented the CleanWell with Igenium formula.

CleanWell products are environmentally sound. Being plant-based, they are alcohol-free, chemical-free and 100% biodegradable. They are also certified cruelty-free and never tested on animals. There is also no ingestion risk for children.

CleanWell offers hand sanitizing sprays in several sizes, hand sanitizing wipes and pump soap bottles in lovely scents. You can order online or locate a store on their Web site.