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Toxins in household dust may be harmful to kids
Most of the dust that coats your furniture and floors comes from outdoors and can pose a health threat, a new study suggests.
BPA in canned foods could harm children, group says
Measurable levels of the chemical additive bisphenol A (BPA) were found in a variety of canned goods, including some that claimed to be BPA-free, according to an analysis released this week by the nonprofit advocacy group Consumers Union.
Toxic toys? Health group finds high lead levels
Children's toys carrying the Barbie and Disney logos have turned up with high levels of lead in them, according to a California-based advocacy group — a finding that may give consumers pause as they shop for the holiday season.
How Safe Are Antibacterial Hand Gels for Toddlers?
How Safe Are Antibacterial Hand Gels for Toddlers?
Antibacterial hand gels have been instrumental in reducing illness in classroom and work settings and making it easy to be hygienic on the go. 

But yes, they can be dangerous: Hand gels contain at least 62 percent ethyl alcohol, so you can assume if they are ingested, they can cause problems. I've heard stories of curious toddlers—who, as we know, touch, smell, and taste things to explore them—licking gels off their hands and exhibiting symptoms of alcohol intoxication. 

So does this make hand sanitizers entirely bad? Probably not. It just means that parents have to treat them like any other dangerous household substance.

  • Supervise your child when using the gel.
  • Make sure it is thoroughly rubbed in or air dried.
  • Keep it out of their reach.
  • Look for alcohol-free gels.
  • If your toddler does ingest hand gel, seek medical treatment immediately.
If hands are visibly soiled with dirt, bodily fluids, or any other "grubby things," it is best to rely on good old-fashioned soap, water, and friction. In a pinch, though, hand gels are fine for preventing the spreading of germs, as long as they're just used on hands.