When it gets cold outside, we get colds inside. We also get the flu. And RSV. And — lately — norovirus. We all know that washing our hands helps defend against illness. But with what? There’s too many kinds of soap, and not all of them will keep you healthy in every situation. Should you up the ante with antibacterial or does bar soap set the bar? This week on Explain It to Me, host Jonquilyn Hill breaks down the suds and bubbles with Vox senior reporter Keren Landman, MD. 

Read more:Wait, should I bother using antibacterial soap?You’ve never heard of the Covid booster with the fewest side effectsPut down that cough medicine

We want to answer your questions in future episodes. Call us at 1-800-618-8545, fill out this form, or send us an email at askvox@vox.com. We love to hear from you.

Credits:Jonquilyn Hill, hostSofi LaLonde, producerAndrea Kristinsdottir, engineerCaitlin PenzeyMoog, fact-checkerCarla Javier, supervising producerJorge Just, editorLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices