One of the best defenses against colds is frequent handwashing but skip the antibacterials. They contain a potentially dangerous chemical, called triclosan, that may disrupt hormones, impair the immune system and promote antibiotic resistance. Read more on the Allergies and Colds page at
http://www.bellaonline.com/site/allergiesandcolds
I stopped using antibacterial soaps and cleaners quite a while ago for the reasons you mentioned. I use Castile soap now, which is natural and doesn't have chemicals in it.
Seems like big companies are just using fear to promote their products!
Nothing beats good ol' fashioned soap & water!
I use these all natural Ayurvedic handmade soaps from India -- like sandalwood soap (smells heavenly!), neem soap, coconut oil soap, rose extract soap, spiced soap..... they all claim to have natural anti-bacterial & moisturizing properties.