Tox Talks: Wiping Away Poisoning from Pesticides
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Tox Talks: Wiping Away Poisoning from Pesticides
We talked with the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) about poison prevention and using disinfectant wipes for their intended use. Click on a video below to learn more about the topic.
FAQ Videos
- I've used disinfectant wipes for years and I don't think I've had any issues; what are the concerns?
- How can I tell if the wipes I have are disinfectant wipes or another kind?
- Wipes are so convenient. Can I keep a canister around the house for everyday uses?
- What about risks to kids? Don’t schools use disinfecting wipes in classrooms?
- Should I use disinfectant wipes on my mask?
- Are flushable wipes safe to use?
- What kinds of calls do poison centers and NPIC receive regarding disinfectant wipes?
- Beyond following the product instructions, how else can I keep myself and others safe from disinfectants?
I've used disinfectant wipes for years and I don't think I've had any issues; what are the concerns?
Disinfectant wipes are pesticides. They are not the same as everyday wipes or hand wipes. Disinfectant wipes are for surfaces and may have higher health risks than wipes made for people if used incorrectly.
How can I tell if the wipes I have are disinfectant wipes or another kind?
Look for "disinfectant" on the cannister, or for an EPA Registration Number (sometimes shortened as "EPA Reg. No."). Other wipes may have a picture of people using it on their hands or might not have specific language at all.
Wipes are so convenient. Can I keep a canister around the house for everyday uses?
Disinfecting wipes have specific instructions. Different canisters may have different instructions so it’s important to know when and where to use them. Keeping them in every room might lead to accidental overuse and easy access for kids. Children under the age of 18 should not use disinfectants. Consider using soap and water as an alternative when cleaning surfaces.
What about risks to kids? Don't schools use disinfecting wipes in classrooms?
Children under the age of 18 should not use disinfectants, including wipes! Read the label to check where the wipes can be used. Consider using a placemat or other barrier between disinfected surfaces and food.
Are flushable wipes safe to use?
They may look the same, but flushable wipes are not the same as disinfecting wipes. Disinfecting wipes can't be used on people. Read the label to see where and how it can be used.
What kinds of calls do poison centers and NPIC receive regarding disinfectant wipes?
NPIC gets many calls about pesticide safety, everything from insect repellents to disinfectants and weed killers. Call us to learn about pesticide health risks and low-risk alternatives. Call NPIC at 800-858-7378, Monday-Friday from 8am-12pm PST.
Poison Centers respond to both informational and emergency calls. If someone is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local poison center at 800-222-1222.
Beyond following the product instructions, how else can I keep myself and others safe from disinfectants?
Store disinfectants and other pesticides away from kids and pets. Read the entire label to check where it can be used. Carefully follow the disinfectant's "contact time,"" which is the time it must stay wet on surfaces to be effective.
Always read the label for proper use and other precautions. If you have questions about the label or anything else, call NPIC at 800-858-7378, Monday-Friday from 8am-12pm PST.
Additional Resources:
- When and How to Clean and Disinfect Your Home - Centers for Disease Control
- Daycare & School Safety - American Association of Poison Control Centers
- Green Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Disinfecting: A Toolkit for Early Care and Education - University of California
- Classroom Cleaning Tips for Teachers - Washington State Department of Health