"As a pediatrician, one of the topics we emphasize most to parents is the environmental hygiene of the baby."
These statements were made by Gulnara Ilyasova, a pediatrician at the Ministry of Health's K.Y. Fərəcova Scientific Research Institute of Pediatrics, during a live broadcast on the ministry's official "Instagram" account.
According to her, since the immune system of infants is not fully developed in the first months and years, bacteria, viruses, saliva residues, and dust accumulated on toys can cause the spread of certain infections:
"Especially during the teething period, babies almost put every object into their mouths, so toys must be cleaned properly and regularly. For example, plastic and silicone toys that the baby constantly holds and puts in their mouth should be washed every day. If a toy falls on the floor, is used by another child, or if the baby has flu, intestinal infection, or mouth sores, it should be washed immediately."
The pediatrician noted that the safest method is to use lukewarm water and a soft soap suitable for children:
"After washing, the toy should be rinsed well and completely dried. We do not recommend frequent use of very strong disinfectants because chemical residues can be ingested by the baby orally. Fabric toys retain more dust, allergens, and microbes, so they should be washed once a week and completely dried."
G. Ilyasova stated that mold and fungus can develop on toys that remain damp.