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If ever there was a doubt about how important it is to have a good hand soap on hand, it all but vanished with the introduction of COVID-19 to our daily lives. With hand-washing billed as one of the most important steps to preventing the virus's spread by the CDC, this once average household commodity was suddenly more in-demand than Taylor Swift concert tickets, selling out all over the country. Thankfully, its stock has finally bounced back enough for you to take your pick of hand cleansers—but which one to choose? Antibacterial Soap Vs. Regular Soap

While most hand soaps and soaps, in general, rid your body of dirt, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal or disinfectant soaps contain certain chemical properties that aren’t found in regular soaps. You’ll want to be mindful of these ingredients, however. Some, like Triclosan, have already been banned from products over health concerns when used consistently over prolonged periods. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that there isn’t enough science to suggest that even the best antibacterial hand soap will protect you from germs better than regular soap and water, though it will still kill bad bacteria—just note that you shouldn’t overuse it, lest you kill off all your good bacterial, too.

If you are someone that finds constant hand washing leaves your skin feeling irritated or dry, then there are plenty of more gentle soaps on the market that could be a great option for you. Look out for more natural ingredients, like tea tree, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Oftentimes, it comes down to personal preference when choosing the ideal hand soap. Do you like a liquid pump or a wash that has foaming properties? Both of these options are great for their quick distribution with minimal surface touching. Perhaps you prefer a traditional bar soap instead? This option may be more cost-effective, as it allows you to buy in bulk but could leave a bit of a mess on the counter.

Read on to check out nine of the best hand soaps to stock up on in order to keep you and those around you safe from harmful germs.

RELATED: Hand Washing Vs. Hand Sanitizer: Which Is Better for Staying Healthy?

Recognized for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, the tea tree and peppermint oils found in this cruelty-free cleanser will not only leave your hands free of bacteria, but also smelling great. Better yet, instead of chemicals or parabens, which can dry out or irritate sensitive skin, it’s got jojoba oil to leave them feeling hydrated and nourished.

The Capri Blue Volcano candle scent with a cult following for more than 20 years also comes in soap form. Accompanied by a matching lotion and a gorgeous gold caddy, it’s totally giftable, but with the fresh scent of tropical fruits and “lightly exotic mountain greens,” there’s a good chance you’ll want to keep it for yourself. It also has shea butter and coconut oil to keep hands from getting too dry.

This antibacterial hand soap has a nice, creamy lather to it that won’t leave your hands feeling dried out after a proper wash. It also has antibacterial properties to fight microbes on your hands—even after you've finished rinsing—along with odors.

This USDA-certified biobased product is free of chemicals and dyes, which means it's not only safe for the environment but also for your sensitive skin—in fact, it’s hypoallergenic. Instead, it’s made from plant-derived ingredients, (think cucumber and sage) that you’ll feel good about lathering up with.

This bulk package comes with 14 bars of antibacterial hand soap that claims to kill 99 percent of bacteria. The germ-fighting formula doesn't just keep your hands free of dirt and bacteria, either: It can also eliminate odor (like the garlic from last night’s salmon florentine) and keep your hands moisturized.

If you're looking to refill your existing hand pump bottle at home with amazing antimicrobial hand soap, then give this one from DermaKleen a try. This hospital-grade formula will disinfect your hands after each wash, albeit without triclosan or harsh alcohol. Better yet, it’s loaded with vitamin E and essential oils galore for an added dose of hydration that will leave your mitts feeling smooth.

This three-pack of lime-scented antibacterial soap uses benzalkonium chloride to stop bacteria in its tracks while the coconut, aloe vera and lime nourish and hydrate your skin and leave it smelling great.

This handy pack of hand soap contains four unique antibacterial bottles that are sure to fight harmful germs as you wash that are mildly scented with lavender, mint and citrus, as well as an unscented option. Each one is cruelty-free, vegan and free of harmful sulfates and parabens.

Made with plant-based ingredients, this foaming hand soap is cruelty-free and gentle on your epidermis. The foam creates a nice, rich lather, and it’s lightly scented with a zesty lemon that will be perfect for every bathroom in the house (or even near your kitchen sink). Beyond that, this high-quality product, comes six to a pack, contains ingredients that are safe for those who have sensitive skin.

RELATED: How Long Should You Wash Your Hands? Hot or Cold Water? All Your Questions, Answered

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