Does germ zapper even work?
by Heather
I have to admit when the germ zapper people contacted me, I was expecting something out of MacGyver to appear at my home. I guess I envisioned a laser-powered bug zapper, but pocket-sized and safe to use around children. I’m dreaming of a product that would keep me and my almost four-week old in a germ-free bubble (sorta like this thing from Hammacher+Schlemmer).
Instead, I received a package with a hand sanitizing foam and a pen-shaped dispenser. The active ingredient is benzethonium chloride, and the zapping is done with a liquid and not a laser. Okaaay.
The revolutionary GermZapperTM the safe, non-toxic, non flammable, instant sanitizer and first aid antiseptic range of products.
I read every bit of literature and all the claims they included. I do not doubt that it’s without alcohol and therefore gentle on my hands. But they are making some pretty big claims about not only killing 99.99% of germs in 15 seconds, but prevention of picking up any new ones for four hours.
Can I truly just foam up and head to the playground (for a few hours), change some diapers, then sit and eat some french fries while nursing my newborn without so much as washing my hands again? I guess I’m not feeling sure enough to take that risk.
I googled the Bio Science lab responsible for verifying the efficacy claims made by germ zapper. I found that the company president has an art show in the works. But where is the scientific rigor and the proof that I’m looking for?
Bottom Line: Sorry, I’m a skeptic. And I’m not a scientist, so I can’t convince myself that it’s working by running my own in-home trials with toddler snot and relative germ levels.
Stumble it!
April 14th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
What I dislike about electronic everything is that if you drop it-(baby bottle in hand )-or spill something on the electronic thing, does it still work?
For me, I’ll take my chances on a sure bet. The Germzapper foam works, is recommended by major doctors and hospitals as being safe and if I drop it there are no issues. It is in a plastic container.