A Defense Against the Wide World of Germs
1/30/08
Disposable Mittens Perfect for Germaphobic Moms
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I’m not the most germaphobic mom on the block, or probably even in the greater metropolitan area. In fact, I’ve been known to say, “Germs are good!” A typical day for me involves taking my child to the chaotic craziness of the mall play area (teeming with germs) and not even washing his hands afterward. Maybe I’m lazy, maybe I’m trying to be too cool and relaxed, or maybe I just don’t know what the heck is best for my child.
Well, having just dealt with my son’s first major cold — which he definitely picked up in some public cesspool — my lazy, cool ways are going the way of acid-washed jeans. My lackadaisical attitude toward germs suddenly felt wrong, and the enormous amounts of snot that were pouring out of my son’s tiny nose proved it. The whole time he was sick, all I kept thinking was “Who knew a nose that small could hold that much?” Later, when my husband and I caught the bug, I made a stuffy-nosed vow to join the war on germs. I vow to wash my son’s hands (and heck, even my own) anytime he’s out in public.
Turns out, though, I might still be able to get away with being a bit lazy. I recently happened upon gLovies disposable hand covers. Much like the Potty Mitts that another Mother-Proofer wrote about a few years ago, these small wonders create a barrier between germy, yucky surfaces and my son’s hands. The difference is that gLovies are for use anywhere, not just in the bathroom. (Actually, I guess you could use the Potty Mitts anywhere, but let’s be honest — the name is a little constricting.)
gLovies fit most children ages 2 to 6, though I test-drove them on my 15-month-old son. While they were a bit big for him, that worked out well — i.e., they covered even more of him, which I see as a bonus given he’s always up to his elbows in whatever disgusting grossness is around. gLovies are little mittens that are waterproof, lined and have an elastic band for the wrists. The material has little penguins all over it, which my son seemed to like. In all honesty, I would probably prefer something a little less conspicuous so I could at least appear to be the non-germaphobic, relaxed mom I used to be. As they are now, gLovies scream “I’m a germaphobe and I’m proud!”
Also, I wish they were actually little gloves rather than mittens, as I think that would give my son a bit more dexterity when he’s playing or exploring. Everyone knows it’s harder to pick up small bugs or other people’s old cigarette butts with mittens on!
That said, gLovies are a pretty darn good idea, and they give me a little leeway in the war on germs. A girl can’t change her ways overnight, for crying out loud, and it’s far easier to throw gLovies in my bag than remember to wash my son’s hands throughout the day. For more information on this product, visit www.MyMomKnowsBest.com.
Specs
Price Range: $4.99 for a 12-pack
Features: For ages 2 to 6; disposable, waterproof and sanitary
Comments
..I would also consider the enviromental impact of such a product..
Posted by: arni | Jan 31, 2008 8:03:38 AM
You will soon learn it's hard enough to get your kids to wear REGULAR mittens, short of special mittens to keep germs off. Give it a few more months before you see the wrath of an angry 2-year-old who doesn't want to wear protection.
Posted by: Morgante | Jan 31, 2008 1:48:48 PM
My sister suggested I use these for my son and I have to say that these are the greatest thing since juice boxes! They keep him clean and clear of germs and any other dirty nastiness that kids seem to find everywhere. He even plays with them on, so it's not just about the potty protection. I have peace of mind knowing that I'm doing what I can to protect him until he reaches an age that he understands not to touch this or that. Thanks for such a great product!
Posted by: Antoinette | Jan 31, 2008 3:17:52 PM
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While it is commendable that you are trying to look out for your child, research suggests that germs and sickness in childhood are actually GOOD for kids. One article states, "recent research shows that society's anti-bacterial and anti-infection crusade makes children and adults more likely to develop asthma and allergies."
The full article is available here: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/11/071106194009.htm
Posted by: Brent | Jan 30, 2008 8:56:33 PM