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Study Finds Children’s Cuddly Toys May Harbor More Germs Than Toilet Seats
Soft toys, from classic teddy bears to various plush animals, are beloved by children globally. However, new research suggests parents might reconsider allowing their children to cuddle with their favorite stuffed companions.
An analysis has highlighted the significant number of microbes potentially residing within these playthings.
Alarming Levels of Bacteria on Plush Toys
Researchers at MattressNextDay discovered that the average teddy bear contains twice the amount of germs found on a typical toilet seat.
The concerning aspect is that these germs encompass bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, which can trigger unpleasant infections in children.
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Dr. Snieguole Geige, a physician at the It’s Me & You Clinic, stated, ‘The key point is that we are not merely talking about dirt. We are addressing concealed health risks that present a tangible danger, particularly in households with young children or individuals with weakened immune systems.’
Dr. Geige emphasized, ‘Prioritizing the cleaning of these items is crucial to protect health and well-being.’
Study Methodology and Key Findings
For the study, researchers obtained swab samples from seven different locations across four items: a blanket, a child’s teddy bear, a bin, and a toilet seat.
These samples were then subjected to an ATP bioluminescence test, quantifying adenosine triphosphate – a molecule present in living cells.
The results indicated that 43 percent of blankets and nearly 29 percent of the teddy bears tested exhibited readings exceeding 1,000 units, signifying elevated contamination levels.
Surprisingly, bins and toilet seats were found to be considerably more hygienic than blankets and teddy bears.
The average toilet seat registered 864 units, while bins averaged only 294 units.
Expert Recommendations for Toy Hygiene
Based on these findings, Dr. Geige urges parents to be diligent in cleaning their children’s blankets and soft toys.
‘I cannot overstate the hidden dangers of ignoring the need to wash blankets and teddy bears,’ she cautioned.
‘These seemingly harmless items act as ideal breeding grounds for bacteria, fungi, and allergens.’
‘The recent bioluminescence test results, revealing high RLU levels on swabbed teddy bears and blankets, expose a worrisome reality: these items can accumulate a surprising amount of microbial contamination that often goes unnoticed,’ Dr. Geige added.
The expert clarified that pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli are especially hazardous for children, whose immune systems are still developing.
‘In children, the risks are even more pronounced,’ Dr. Geige explained.
‘Repeated exposure to these microbes can lead to frequent infections, respiratory problems, or skin conditions, all of which could be easily prevented with routine cleaning.’
Beyond bacterial threats, dust mites and mold also pose risks to children.
‘The build-up of dust mites and mold on unwashed plush toys can also trigger allergic reactions and worsen asthma symptoms,’ Dr. Geige further noted.
Simple Steps to Safely Wash Cuddly Toys
For parents concerned about damaging their child’s beloved stuffed toy during washing, practical advice is available. Experts at Whirlpool have provided straightforward instructions.
How to Wash Stuffed Animals
- Place the soft toy inside a mesh laundry bag, a zippered pillowcase, or a pillowcase with tied ends for extra protection.
- Select a gentle wash cycle on your washing machine.
- Use regular or mild detergent.
- Allow the cuddly toy to air dry completely.
Whirlpool advises, ‘It’s often recommended to use the Delicate, Hand Wash, or Gentle Cycle setting on your washing machine, along with cold water to help prevent colors from fading.’
While regular or mild detergent is suitable, avoid using a dryer. ‘It’s best to air dry stuffed animals to help prevent glue or plastic parts from melting in the dryer,’ Whirlpool stated.
‘Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the stuffed animals from the mesh bag or pillowcase and hang or lay them flat to dry.’