The 9 Best Hand Soaps of 2020

Best Antimicrobial: Dial Antimicrobial Liquid Soap

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Keep germs at bay with this tried-and-true hand soap from Dial. It's been used in schools, hospitals, and doctor's offices for years as it eliminates 99.9 percent of germs. The new formula also contains skin conditioners, so it won't strip your skin of much-needed moisture with regular hand washing.

Best Budget: Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap

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The calming scent and reasonable price of this hand soap are a winning combination. Light moisturizers will keep the skin from becoming cracked, and if you're sensitive to strong smells, this scent is a good choice as its scent is subtle. Additionally, customers love the rich, thick lather which helps make their hands feel extra clean.

Best for Dry Skin: Soapbox Deep Moisture Liquid Hand Soap

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Washing your hands frequently can result in dry or cracked hands. To combat this, look for a hand soap that contains moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, aloe vera, or vitamin E. We recommend the moisture-rich formula of this hand soap from Soapbox, which is infused with vitamin E and fatty acids from coconut oil. The fatty acids effectively seal in moisture for softer and more hydrated skin. Their formula is also vegan, so if using vegan products is important to you, this soap is a great choice.

Best Natural: Puracy Natural Gel Hand Wash

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Made without sulfates, triclosan, petrochemicals, perfumes, or animal by-products, this is a hand soap you can feel good about using. Like other soaps on this list, the natural formula contains vitamin E and aloe vera to hydrate and soothe the skin while you wash away germs. The addition of sea salt and citrus oils adds a light scent but won't irritate skin with eczema (or people with sensitive noses).

Best Foaming: Method Foaming Hand Soap

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Foam soap provides a rich lather that promotes thorough hand washing, and also uses less soap per pump. Method's Foaming Hand Soap uses naturally derived ingredients to cleanse and soften hands, and their scents are soft and appealing. A great choice for families, their foaming soap doesn't contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, phthalates, or animal by-products.

Best Refill: Mrs. Meyer's Liquid Hand Soap Refill, Lemon Verbena

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If you're looking to stock up on hand soap, this 33-ounce container of Mrs. Meyer's hand soap is a great option. It has an affordable price tag and the formula is free of parabens and phthalates. Instead of harsh cleaning agents, this soap relies on olive oil, aloe vera, and essential oils to clean hands without stripping them of their natural oils. With a bright and citrusy scent, this hand soap works great in the kitchen or bathroom.

Runner Up, Best Refill: Method Gel Hand Soap Refill, 34 Fl Oz

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For another soap refill that's economical and cleans well, we love Method's Gel Hand Soap Refill which comes in a pouch filled with 34 ounces. The biodegradable formula is naturally derived (no parabens or other harsh chemicals here) and will leave hands feeling soft and clean. The refill pouches also take up less space under the sink or in the bathroom, where storage space might be limited.

Best For Sensitive Skin: MADE OF Organic Fragrance-Free Hand Soap, 10 Oz

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If you have existing eczema or other skin sensitivities, this organic hand soap will get rid of germs and bacteria without irritating your skin. The natural formula relies on plant-based ingredients, like aloe vera and olive fruit oil, to cleanse and soothe without aggravating skin issues. While this formula is effective for adults of all ages, it's also gentle enough for babies and small children (it's been tested and reviewed by both pediatricians and dermatologists).