What sanitizer cannot be used to sanitize children's toys?

• A. Phenol
• B. Bleach
• C. Alcohol
• D. Hydrogen Peroxide

Answer: (A)

When sanitizing toys that kids might mouth, you need a product that is effective but safe for contact with skin and saliva and that won’t leave harmful residues. Phenol is not suitable because it is highly toxic and can be absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes, potentially causing burns and systemic poisoning. Residues on a toy could be ingested by a child, posing serious health risks, and phenol can also damage certain plastics. For this reason, phenol-based sanitizers are not used for children's toys. Safer options like properly diluted bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or certain alcohol-based sanitizers can be used when the label directions are followed and the toy is rinsed or allowed to dry as appropriate.