When I think of cleaning a baby’s or toddler’s hands, I think of cleaning off dirt and germs that could make them sick with a cold or the flu. But washing their hands cleans off more than that according to the Environmental Working Group. It also prevents the transfer of toxic chemicals from their little hands to their mouths. These toxins can be found many places such as some electronic equipment, older wooden swing sets, or some items with fire retardants.
IMPORTANT: Hand sanitizers are convenient, but they do not remove dust and dirt which are how the chemicals are transferred. Old-fashioned hand washing removes not only bacteria but also the grime.