A person washing their hands with a bar of soap.

Hand Soap Products

To prevent the spread of germs, including COVID-19, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends washing hands with soap and water whenever possible because it reduces the amount and types of germs and chemicals on hands. Hand soaps and lotions for regular hand cleaning should NOT contain any disinfectants. Regular soap and water are capable of deactivating the SARS/Cov-2 virus. For situations without the possibility of regular hand washing, please see the alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR) section.  

Note: If your municipality is supplying a clinic or vaccination site with specific hand hygiene disinfection products, please consult infection preventionists. ABHRs are considered best practice in these settings. 

Proposed procurement goals: 
  • Achieve 100% spend on hand hygiene products that do not contain any disinfectants
    • Disinfectants include alcohols, chlorhexidine, chlorine, hexachlorophene, iodine, chloroxylenol (PCMX), quaternary ammonium compounds, and triclosan
    • Note: Avoid products that make any claim about disinfection or germ fighting
  • Require disclosure of PFAS in all products considered for purchase: Michigan Executive Directive 2021-8, Reducing State Purchases of Products Containing Intentionally Added PFAS 
  • Require product ingredient disclosure in all contracts