And for those concerned about the use of bleach, most state policies recommend, but don’t require, diluted bleach for fulfilling sanitation requirements. Since it’s typically the only recommendation listed, people assume it’s the only option. Find out the exact language of your local policy and see if it allows for other options. Still, sometimes a regulator will read the law differently. It’s a sticky situation. Cover all your bases to ensure the school or daycare is not fined – or worse. Do your research so the school/daycare doesn’t have to do so much.

This issue has troubled me so much (also w/their food intake). Since I homeschool, I don’t experience the issue w/toxins in the classroom because we use our non-toxic options in the home. It’s when they leave the house that bothers me. At the end of Sunday school, the teacher would whip out the Clorox bleach spray and go crazy spraying all of the toys down that my baby was going to use again later that week and more than likely put in his mouth. I appreciate the “care,” but would have preferred they use safer cleaners. Despite my efforts, they never accepted the use of non/less toxic products even though they would have also saved money.

I don’t want to be the “nutso or overprotective” mom, so I take care to do what I can while they’re at home. Although I realize toxic hand santizer and a few beef hot dogs every once in a while won’t kill them (as I cringe), I will still promote safer options. Like you said, pick your battles.