A healthy and hygienic environment is paramount for your baby’s safety. However, an over-zealous attempt to make your home germfree may actually prove counter-productive. Here are some common myths regarding cleanliness:
Myth One. ‘Germfree is an achievable goal’: Our surroundings are virtually teeming with millions of germs. However cautiously you may guard your baby’s toys, clothes, and surroundings, it is impossible to achieve a total germ-free environment. Even as you wash, spray, sterilize, and disinfect everything around your baby, germs continue to multiply all around.
Myth Two. ‘All germs are bad’: The term “germs” is commonly used to refer to microorganisms of different types. Many bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi, molds, and other microorganisms do cause major illnesses. However, others are entirely harmless and do not affect human beings in any way. In fact, many actually play a helpful role in our lives and support our well-being. An example is the bacteria found in our stomach that aids digestion. Over-sanitization often ends up destroying the good germs along with the bad.
Myth Three. ‘Germfree means healthy’: The human body is equipped with its own defense system to help protect it against diseases. This system, called the ‘immune system’, is programmed to identify harmful microorganisms and eliminate them. This ability is believed to develop in the body during early childhood—between six months to two years. According to many doctors and researchers, the excessive use of disinfectants may prevent the immune system of children from developing fully. This may hamper the children’s ability to cope effectively with the diseases that might affect their body in later life.
Disclaimer: The above information is commonsense reflection drawn from general experience. If you are looking for expert medical advice, please consult your doctor.