Many hand soaps are designed to kill germs and bacteria when used properly. Hand soaps that contain antibacterial or antimicrobial agents are specifically formulated to target and eliminate harmful bacteria and germs from your hands during handwashing.

The process of handwashing with soap and water helps to physically remove dirt, bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms from your skin. The friction created by rubbing your hands together, combined with the soap's cleansing action, helps dislodge and wash away these harmful pathogens.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities recommend washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially during key times such as before eating, after using the restroom, and after coughing or sneezing. Proper handwashing with soap and water is considered one of the most effective ways to reduce the transmission of infections and prevent the spread of illnesses.

However, it's worth noting that not all hand soaps are labeled as "antibacterial" or "antimicrobial," and regular hand soaps without these specific properties can still be effective at cleaning your hands. Proper handwashing with any soap, combined with thorough rinsing and drying, can help remove a significant amount of germs and reduce the risk of infections.