Nursery World - Equipment helpline (4)

QI'm looking for the safest cleaning spray to use on tables, toys and equipment. I've noticed that most antibacterial sprays contain harmful substances and have an 'irritant' warning. Should I avoid them all? AWe contacted Boots on your behalf and their research pharmacists report that Milton's Antibacterial surface wipes or spray, priced 1.99 each, have undergone extensive testing and are completely safe to use in the way you describe. All reputable manufacturers include warnings on their products to deter improper use, but it is important to remember that most of the ingredients in these products are present to kill bacteria or prolong the 'shelf life' and make up less than 5 per cent of the total content. The greatest ingredient, proportionately, is water. Antibacterial products, while useful, should never become a substitute for strict, basic hygiene like handwashing, and if you are liable to 'overspray' when cleaning you should stick to wipes.

AWe contacted Boots on your behalf and their research pharmacists report that Milton's Antibacterial surface wipes or spray, priced 1.99 each, have undergone extensive testing and are completely safe to use in the way you describe. All reputable manufacturers include warnings on their products to deter improper use, but it is important to remember that most of the ingredients in these products are present to kill bacteria or prolong the 'shelf life' and make up less than 5 per cent of the total content. The greatest ingredient, proportionately, is water. Antibacterial products, while useful, should never become a substitute for strict, basic hygiene like handwashing, and if you are liable to 'overspray' when cleaning you should stick to wipes.

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