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I just did a basic Google search, and there are far more companies that support Microban than those that are against it. Many of them aren’t even in the spa industry. Just because some companies don’t use it doest make it worthless. This countertop company sure is a believer in it. Here is what this counter place had to say about all of the benefits Microban provides:http://www.granitdesign.com/en/microban.aspx
So who does one decide to believe? The manufacturer itself or one study done by a competing manufacture that doesn’t use the product.
This is quickly turning into a dead horse, but here is some more fodder for you all.What kind of proof do you have that Microban Antimicrobial product protection is safe? MICROBAN has undergone extensive independent laboratory testing and has been proven safe. It is registered with the EPA for all applications in which it is used. Furthermore, MICROBAN is registered with the FDA for specific end-use medical applications. Products with MICROBAN protection have been used safely in medical applications for over ten years, such as in surgical incise drapes, hospital bed mattresses and pillow ticking. http://www.poolwarehouse.com/hottubfaq.html
So who does one decide to believe? The manufacturer itself or one study done by a competing manufacture that doesn’t use the product. According to the article that doc reposted, it says that it is against the law to state that microban makes spas healthier. But, if you read the microban website, its states just that. I don't think that ONE study by ONE person makes anything fact of fiction.http://www.microban.com/americas/products/category.html?lang=en&CategoryID=1&SubcategoryID=25http://www.microban.com/americas/products/category.html?lang=en&CategoryID=1&SubcategoryID=42
Where in this statement does it say microban makes spas healthier?"There’s no better place to seek relaxation and relief from stress than a spa. However, the high temperatures and wet environment can make an unprotected spa surface a target for the growth of bacteria. Look for a spa or hot tub with a non-porous Lucite® surface and one that offers the added protection of Microban® antimicrobial product protection. Microban protection inhibits the growth of bacteria that can cause stains and odors on the surface of the spa. The continuous antimicrobial cleaning action makes your spa surface easier to clean and keeps it cleaner between cleanings. Microban protection is not a substitute for normal water treatment chemicals."[glow]It claims it makes the surface easier to clean.[/glow]
Where in this statement does it say microban makes spas healthier?"There’s no better place to seek relaxation and relief from stress than a spa. [glow]However, the high temperatures and wet environment can make an unprotected spa surface a target for the growth of bacteria[/glow]. Look for a spa or hot tub with a non-porous Lucite® surface and one that offers [glow]the added protection of Microban® antimicrobial product protection. Microban protection inhibits the growth of bacteria that can cause stains and odors on the surface of the spa[/glow]. The continuous antimicrobial cleaning action makes your spa surface easier to clean and keeps it cleaner between cleanings. Microban protection is not a substitute for normal water treatment chemicals."It claims it makes the surface easier to clean.
Oh, I guess it didnt come right out and say it but...
So if the surface is easier to clean, then that means its NOT a marketing ploy.
So its beneficial for countertops, but not on spas. You dont say...
Yep you're right "too much beer man"... Is a bath or hot tub made with Microban "healthier?"Absolutely not. In fact, manufacturers of Microban-treated acrylic sheet are not allowed by law to even imply that they are. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will not allow Microban Products Company, or any of its customers, to make claims regarding health benefits, such as protection from germs or disease prevention. Why? Because there is no specific evidence that any of the products treated with Microban are effective in preventing the spread of bacteria or diseaseThe above information from Doc's site is what I was speaking of in my earlier post.And just so I understand your position... you recommend a product pushed by the manufacturers when in fact the company itself (Microban) nor its customers (manufacturers / dealers) can promote its "benefits"....? Nah... no marketing there!!! It's a unique selling position for some dealers whos competition isn't offering it. If I sold you on that one feature and you loved it (or was completely brainwashed by its wonderful advantages... lol), you would most likely buy from me. Marketing 101... Hell, they got you sucked in. Why not an extra 25-50 customers? This ain't rocket science here and I'm not sure why this is such a stretch for you to grasp? :-?