While it’s important to keep your Lysol and Babies, using harsh chemicals to do so may be counterproductive. Babies’ sensitive skin, developing lungs and respiratory systems can be upset by many cleaning products, including disinfectant sprays like Lysol. These sprays contain quaternary ammonium compounds, also known as QACs (benzalkonium chloride is the main one used in Lysol) which do a great job of killing germs. But many parents wonder if they are safe for babies.
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QACs are effective for disinfecting and have been around since the 1880s. They work by disrupting the cellular membranes of bacteria, which is how they kill germs. But they can also be a strong irritant of the mucous membranes in your baby’s nose, mouth or eyes. And the fumes can be bothersome to babies who breathe them in, especially if they have a history of asthma or allergies.
Fortunately, it is possible to use Lysol safely if you follow the instructions on the label. It’s important to use it in well-ventilated areas, and let surfaces dry completely before you let your baby back in the room. Also, make sure to rinse items thoroughly that come into contact with the spray, like toys and blankets. It’s also a good idea to wash your baby’s hands after coming in from outside, and before eating or drinking. That will help prevent them from ingesting the chemicals.
