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The Germ Hotspots in Every Daycare (and How HOCl Keeps Them Safe) - CleanSmart Canada

The Germ Hotspots in Every Daycare (and How HOCl Keeps Them Safe)

Highlights

  • HOCl is a Health Canada–approved disinfectant that’s non-toxic and residue-free.
  • Safe for toys, fabrics, and food-contact surfaces.
  • No harsh smell or need for gloves.
  • Helps reduce illness outbreaks in group settings.
  • Improves air quality in closed daycare rooms.
  • Made in Canada and trusted in healthcare, education, and home use.

 

When “Clean” Isn’t Always Safe

Every daycare is a mini ecosystem—shared toys, curious hands, and endless surfaces touched hundreds of times a day.  Traditional cleaning agents like bleach and quats may kill germs, but they can also release harsh fumes that irritate young lungs and sensitive skin.  That’s where hypochlorous acid (HOCl) stands apart. This non-toxic disinfectant, made from salt, water, and electricity, kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses—without harsh chemicals or residue. 

 

Explore our School & Workplace Collection — trusted by educators, healthcare providers, and childcare operators across Canada.

 

 

6 Daycare Germ Hotspots to Watch

Even in well-run childcare centres, bacteria build up in surprising places. Here’s where germs thrive—and how HOCl can help.

  1. Toys & Playsets: Shared toys, especially plush ones, collect saliva and food residue. HOCl spray kills germs safely—even on stuffed animals.
  2. Snack & Craft Tables: Food and art supplies leave sticky residues perfect for bacteria. Wipe with HOCl and let air-dry—no rinse needed.
  3. Nap Mats & Cushions: Sweat and drool can spread microbes. HOCl cleans without leaving chemical scents behind.
  4. Doorknobs & Light Switches: High-touch surfaces transfer germs between staff and kids daily.
  5. Bathrooms & Change Areas: Safe to disinfect without closing the room or wearing gloves.
  6. Shared Electronics: Tablets, buttons, and remotes—gentle cleaning with HOCl prevents damage to coatings.

 

Why HOCl Is a Better Choice for Childcare Facilities

Young children breathe faster than adults and absorb airborne chemicals more easily. Traditional disinfectants can trigger coughing, watery eyes, and skin irritation.  HOCl, by contrast, is pH-neutral, fragrance-free, and gentle on surfaces—while providing hospital-grade disinfection.  Switching to HOCl helps operators meet health standards without exposing staff or children to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). It’s safe enough to use while kids are present, even on play surfaces and soft toys.

 

Try our 1 L Surface Cleaner & Disinfectant — stabilized HOCl made in Canada, perfect for daycares and classrooms.

 

 

Building a Safe Daycare Cleaning Routine

Consistency matters more than intensity. Here’s a practical, HOCl-based approach that fits daily childcare routines:

  1. Clean First: Wipe away visible dirt with a damp cloth or paper towel.
  2. Disinfect with HOCl: Spray evenly until the surface looks wet.
  3. Let Air Dry: No rinse needed—even for toys or food surfaces.
  4. Refresh Toys Daily: Focus on plush toys, puzzles, and shared sets.
  5. End-of-Day Touchpoints: Doors, counters, and washroom surfaces.
  6. Weekly Deep Clean: Rotate toys and soft items through a full HOCl spray-down.

 

FAQs

Q1. Is HOCl safe for children and infants?
A: Yes. It’s non-toxic, free of harsh residues, and safe to use around children and pets.

 

Q2. Can HOCl be used on soft toys and fabrics?
A: Absolutely. It won’t bleach or damage materials and leaves no lingering odour.

 

Q3. Does HOCl replace other disinfectants?
A: Yes—in most childcare settings, HOCl simplifies cleaning routines by working as both a cleaner and disinfectant.

 

Q4. Is HOCl approved for use in Canada?
A: Yes. CleanSmart products carry a Health Canada DIN, confirming safety and disinfection efficacy.

 

 

Creating Healthier Daycares, One Spray at a Time

Healthy children learn better—and so do happy staff. Replacing harsh cleaners with hypochlorous acid spray gives every daycare fresher air, safer play surfaces, and fewer sick days.

 

Shop our 1 L Surface Cleaner & Disinfectant or browse our full School & Workplace Collection


Questions? Contact us for guidance on setting up your HOCl cleaning program.

 

 

Sources

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). How To Clean and Disinfect Early Care and Education Settings.  CDC
  2. Health Canada. Hard-surface disinfection and sanitization (Biocides). Health Canada
  3. Health Canada. List of Surface Disinfectants for Emerging Viral Pathogens. Health Canada