Toys can help children explore the world, including the invisible world of bacteria. We explain why there's no need to fear germs and how to maintain a reasonable level of hygiene.
Dirt is sometimes good. There's a hypothesis that modern children live in an unnaturally clean environment and have little interaction with microorganisms, including pathogens. As a result, the immune system doesn't train properly and may start reacting to harmless things, which could lead to allergies [1]. Although this is still a hypothesis, immunologists advise against creating a sterile home environment [2].
Pediatricians refer to a chart that indicates what to wash and how often [3].
- Teethers should be cleaned after each use, and thoroughly washed with soap and water at the end of the day. They can also be washed in the dishwasher at high temperatures.
- Fabric toys that are frequently used can be washed once a week with the laundry and completely dried in the dryer.
- All other items that the baby uses can be wiped down once a week.
If you worry about your baby coming into contact with chemical cleaners, you can use plain soap and water and a solution of water and white vinegar or baking soda to clean toys and surfaces.
