Does antibacterial soap kill more germs than regular soap? Many people assume the antibacterial label means better protection. Research from Columbia University found no difference in bacteria counts between the two types. You grow three types of bacteria in a lab: E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Small discs soaked in antibacterial and regular soaps are placed on each bacteria plate. After a day in the incubator, you measure the death zone (the clear ring where bacteria could not grow) around each disc. Compare the death zones to find out whether the antibacterial ingredient makes any real difference.