Soap

Soap is made by mixing fats or oils with a strong alkali. It helps remove dirt and germs from skin and surfaces by breaking down grease.

Ancient Babylonians may have made soap as early as 2800 BC.

The mixture reacts to form molecules that can attach to dirt and grease. When you wash with soap and water, the dirt is lifted away and rinsed down the drain.

People have made soap for thousands of years. Washing hands with soap is one of the best ways to stop germs from spreading.