Do we know how best to disinfect child care sites in the United States? A review of available disinfectant efficacy data and health risks of the major disinfectant classes

Children in child care settings have a high infectious burden. They are frequently exposed to sanitizing and disinfecting agents, whose toxicities have not been studied in these settings. Current guidance on the preferred disinfection agents for child care is vague. 

A clear rationale is needed to establish policies for determining preferable disinfection products for use in child care settings, based on efficacy against relevant pathogens, toxicity, ease of use, and cost. When other factors are equal, the use of peroxide-based disinfectant products is recommended to minimize inhalational toxicity.

Keywords: Bleach; Child care; Disinfection; Environmental health; Peroxide; Quaternary ammonia compounds.

Authors

Timur S. Durrani, MD, MPH, MBA Director

Mark Miller, MD, MPH Region 9 WSPEHSU Director Emeritus, UCSF

Vickie Leonard, RN, FNP, PhD UCSF, Childhood Cancer & the Environment Champion