Disinfecting hand wipes and hand sanitizers have become a staple in many schools, as parents and teachers seek ways to keep germs at bay. For several years, alcohol-based products were the only choice; later, products with anti-microbial chemicals became popular. Both of these are inappropriate choices for children because of the associated health and environmental problems.

Alcohol is dangerous for use around young children, whose typical hand-to-mouth behavior puts them at risk for exposure from products with high alcohol content. (Some popular hand sanitizers contain more than 62% ethyl alcohol, with additional chemicals added for coloring and fragrance).

Anti-microbial products are registered pesticides, and their long-term effects on children’s health and the environment, even at low levels, are just now being discovered. Learn more.

Several non-toxic formulations have recently been introduced that offer safe and effective ways to keep kids’ hands clean —  and germ-free.