It is generally believed that washing hands with soap kills germs, but do germs also get killed off the soap?

So the answer is no, bacteria and germs can survive on the surface of ordinary soap, albeit for a short time. Especially if the soap is wet and in constant use, microbes accumulate on its surface (mostly those that are transmitted from our skin).

Research has found that bacteria such as E. coli or Staphylococcus can survive on the outer layer of soap for some time.

But why is this not dangerous?

The surface of soap and the alkaline environment are not conducive to bacteria for a long time, so they do not survive for long.

When we wash our hands, the germs are washed away with the soap suds and running water, and some of them stick to the soap.

Although it is generally considered safe to use regular bar soap, bacteria can survive longer if the soap is constantly wet (for example, if water collects in a dish). To avoid this, it is best to store the soap in a dry dish.

Liquid soap dispensers are often preferred in hospitals or more sensitive areas to reduce the risk of infection.