Nursery Germs

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - O.K. new Moms and Dads, here's a question for you: is your baby's nursery clean? And, we're not talking about clothes, burp cloths and blankets put away, that's a lot to keep up with, for sure! We're actually talking about germs. In nurseries, there are germ hot spots. Places, as you might imagine, like changing tables, door knobs and plastic toys. As a new parent, we all want our babies to be in the best environment possible. And, there are some things we can be doing to keep the germs away.

First things first, we need to know where the germs are. Dr. Benjamin Tanner is an Infection Risk Specialist. He explains, "the number one source of germs in the nursery is going to be the dirty diaper. And, so anything the dirty diaper touches then becomes a germ hot-spot itself. Other germ hot-spots include the changing table and what we call high-touch surfaces. Things like toys, door knobs, things of that nature."

Dr. Tanner has tested nurseries, and says prevention is key when it comes to keeping things germ-free. Starting with a good diaper-changing routine. We should have everything ready, so we don't spread germs feeling around that changing table to get the wipes or diapers or baby powder or whatever. Also, it's a good idea to have a diaper pail with a foot pedal. Throw the diapers away right away. Don't leave a dirty diaper for later. And, wash your hands.

Dr. Tanner also recommends regularly disinfecting in the nursery. Focus on the diaper-changing area and other high-touch areas like door knobs and toys. When it comes to toys, experts tell us that germs are easily passed from child to child and also transfer germs into the mouth. So, experts say we should go ahead and disinfect the toys, both plush and hard toys. Now, after you disinfect, if you're worried about the chemicals, Dr. Tanner says you can do a water wipe-down. It's all about keeping our babies safe!

For more tips to a clean nursery, click (www.parents.com/app/healthyhousehold/) or here (www.playtexbaby.com)