Tox Talks: Wiping Away Poisoning from Pesticides

Disinfectant wipes are pesticides. They are not the same as everyday wipes or hand wipes. Disinfectant wipes are for surfaces and may have higher health risks than wipes made for people if used incorrectly.

Look for "disinfectant" on the cannister, or for an EPA Registration Number (sometimes shortened as "EPA Reg. No."). Other wipes may have a picture of people using it on their hands or might not have specific language at all.

Disinfecting wipes have specific instructions. Different canisters may have different instructions so it’s important to know when and where to use them. Keeping them in every room might lead to accidental overuse and easy access for kids. Children under the age of 18 should not use disinfectants. Consider using soap and water as an alternative when cleaning surfaces.

Children under the age of 18 should not use disinfectants, including wipes! Read the label to check where the wipes can be used. Consider using a placemat or other barrier between disinfected surfaces and food.

No. The label has strict instructions on where disinfecting wipes can be used. Using wipes or other disinfectants on your mask may increase your health risks. Consider washing reusable cloth masks with your laundry.

They may look the same, but flushable wipes are not the same as disinfecting wipes. Disinfecting wipes can't be used on people. Read the label to see where and how it can be used.

NPIC gets many calls about pesticide safety, everything from insect repellents to disinfectants and weed killers. Call us to learn about pesticide health risks and low-risk alternatives. Call NPIC at 800-858-7378, Monday-Friday from 8am-12pm PST.

Poison Centers respond to both informational and emergency calls. If someone is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local poison center at 800-222-1222.

Store disinfectants and other pesticides away from kids and pets. Read the entire label to check where it can be used. Carefully follow the disinfectant's "contact time,"" which is the time it must stay wet on surfaces to be effective.

Always read the label for proper use and other precautions. If you have questions about the label or anything else, call NPIC at 800-858-7378, Monday-Friday from 8am-12pm PST.