Babies and toddlers explore their world to a large extent by putting things in their mouths. What many parents are not aware of: During the oral phase, children may also ingest residues of cleaning products that contain harmful ingredients - from formic acid to sulphamic acid. These early stages of life are particularly sensitive, as the immune system is still developing. Therefore, if you want to avoid chemicals when cleaning, you should opt for a safe, thorough and gentle cleaning method - such as micro-dry steam. Even products labeled as "organic" or "eco" are not automatically safe for children.
Unlike in the food sector, the terms "organic" and "eco" on cleaning products are not subject to legal requirements. There is also no comprehensive declaration obligation. This means that if aggressive acids, alkalis or liquid plastics are contained in cleaning products, suppliers are not obliged to list them on the packaging - even if they may be harmful to health. This lack of transparency poses serious risks for babies and small children in particular, as any residues that stick to floors or toys are absorbed through the hands and mouth.
Parents who want to protect their children from such invisible dangers should therefore avoid using aggressive cleaners in the home as much as possible. Cleaning with micro dry steam is a completely chemical-free and at the same time much more effective alternative. In compact cleaning appliances, water is heated to such an extent that almost dry steam is produced. This so-called micro-dry steam consists of microscopically small water particles that no longer have any surface tension. This allows them to penetrate deep into dirt and residues and remove them particularly thoroughly - without the use of cleaning agents.
Thanks to the low residual moisture content of just five percent, even sensitive floors such as parquet, laminate or natural stone can be cleaned easily and streak-free with micro dry steam. At the same time, the dry steam leaves no new residue behind, which means that cleaned surfaces stay clean for longer - dirt and germs can no longer adhere so easily. The result is not only a more hygienic, but also an overall healthier living environment.
Another major advantage: the hot steam has a natural disinfectant effect. "The high outlet temperature of up to 100 degrees Celsius eliminates 99.99 percent of the mold, bacteria and viruses that can accumulate on surfaces," explains Fritz Pattis, founder of the Green Cleaning concept, which is based on dry steam. And even though babies do not need a completely germ-free environment to develop a healthy immune system, hygienically clean surfaces - especially in sensitive areas such as the kitchen or nursery - are an important part of preventative health protection.
Cleaning children's toys: Safe, thorough and residue-free
Children's toys in particular are a typical object that babies and toddlers regularly put in their mouths. Whether it's a soft toy, wooden block or plastic figure - toys are carried around, thrown on the floor, taken along in the baby carriage and almost always end up in the mouth. It is therefore particularly important to clean toys regularly and, above all, without leaving any residue.
Many parents resort to disinfectant wipes or mild cleaning agents, but these can also leave behind residues that are potentially harmful to health. Cleaning fluid can settle on toys with cracks, joints or fabric covers in particular and does not always dry out completely. Micro-dry steam is a particularly practical solution here. The hot steam penetrates deep into grooves and pores, removes even stubborn dirt and kills germs at the same time - without any chemicals.
What's more, it is quick and easy to use: Simply treat the toy briefly with the dry steam, wipe off with a clean microfiber cloth if necessary - done. As no water film remains, the toy dries within a few seconds and can be used again straight away. This saves time, is gentle on materials and protects children's health.
Cleaning silicone toys: What to look out for
One special case is toys made of silicone - such as teething rings, grasping toys or small bath figures. Silicone has many advantages: It is soft, flexible, saliva-proof and generally free from harmful substances such as BPA. However, precisely because it is used so frequently and intensively, it should be cleaned regularly.
Although silicone toys can often be cleaned in the dishwasher or with hot water, many parents are unsure whether these methods really remove all bacteria and viruses. In addition, there are parts that are hollow inside or have small openings - water or even mold can accumulate here over time.
Here too, micro dry steam is the ideal cleaning method. The hot steam reaches even hard-to-reach areas, reliably kills germs and leaves no residue behind. Particularly important: as no aggressive cleaning agents are used, the material of the silicone toy remains soft and supple - without micro-cracks or material changes forming due to chemical influences, as can be the case with some household cleaners.
A tip for cleaning silicone toys with an interior or small holes: After steaming, shake out the toy well and, if necessary, dry with an absorbent cloth or leave it open to air out completely. This prevents moisture from building up inside, which could encourage mold growth.
Conclusion: Cleaning with micro dry steam - particularly recommended for families with small children
Whether floors, kitchen surfaces, toys or furniture - cleaning with micro dry steam offers numerous advantages, especially for households with babies and small children. It removes dirt and germs thoroughly, without any chemical additives, and thus protects against invisible dangers caused by cleaning agent residues. It is particularly practical when cleaning children's toys - whether made of plastic, wood, fabric or silicone - as it is both effective and gentle.
Parents who pay attention to safety and health will find micro dry steam a modern, sustainable and efficient cleaning method that not only makes everyday life easier, but also leaves them feeling good - for more hygiene and fewer worries in everyday family life.
