Wipes only work for 20 minutes

Dr Clare Lanyon, of Northumbria University in Newcastle, claims that common germs can replicate themselves in only 20 minutes after a surface has been wiped and that if even one cell is left alive (a virtual certainty) that cell will quickly re-colonise the entire surface. 

The biomedical scientist appeared on BBC programme Trust me I'm a Doctor to demonstrate that old fashioned remedies such as bars of soap are actually far more effective at breaking down cell walls and thus combating germs. 

Speaking to the Telegraph in the wake of her appearance Dr Lanyon said: "Personally, I don't waste my time purchasing anti-bacterial products for the home. Anti-bacterial wipes will not kill microbes or stop the re-establishing."