Chapter 13 – House Hygiene

Children shouldn’t live in a sterile environment: pediatricians have been saying it for years.

In fact, a newborn’s immune system needs to be trained to recognize germs, viruses, and bacteria as “enemies”: it cannot do that in a completely sterile environment.

At the same time, however, it’s also true that children are more susceptible to infections and allergies. So how should hygiene be managed at home, especially after the baby has started crawling? Let’s look at some rules and practical advice:

• Floors should be cleaned and vacuumed at least two to three times a week to remove surface dust. If there’s a dog or cat in the house, it’s advisable to vacuum even more frequently.
• Avoid using overly harsh cleaning products. Prefer non-toxic and organic options, and use them in moderation. Rugs and curtains should be reduced to a minimum to prevent the buildup of dust mites. If that’s not possible, they should be washed and cleaned frequently at high temperatures.
• For cleaning baby clothes, it’s strongly recommended to use a neutral, hypoallergenic detergent or a soap specifically designed for newborn skin, and free of phosphates.
• Toys should be cleaned regularly. Fabric toys or stuffed animals can go in the washing machine. Other toys can be cleaned with a gentle detergent—or better yet, with a solution of water and vinegar or water and baking soda.
• Shoes should be removed before entering the house to avoid bringing in dirt that the baby could come into contact with.