I need to go through the maternity clothes that have been stored in my garage. Problem is, the garage has recently been invaded by mice who have come in from the cold. I'm afraid they may have left little "presents" for me in the stored clothing, in the form of droppings or -- ick -- nests.
Is it safe for me to go through the clothing? Would gloves and laundering with a heavy duty detergent be enough to protect me? I am mainly worried about toxoplasmosis. Thank you...
2007-02-24 07:58:49 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Pregnancy
Just to be on the safe side, I would get someone else to go through the clothes and put them in the washing machine for you. After that, you should be fine.
2007-02-24 08:05:30 · answer #1 · answered by BRIAN W 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Cats are the only definitive host of Toxoplasma, so that isn't a concern. It would still be good to wear gloves, use bleach or hot water for those things that will stand it but regular washing should be sufficient. Mice can still carry hanta virus, Leptospira and other icky things.
You may want to ask hubby to do this for you - not so much for reasons of infectious stuff but, depending on how far along you are, it might be a good idea to limit bending, lifting, etc. He might even be grateful for the opportunity to contribute something to the project.
2007-02-24 08:10:32 · answer #2 · answered by dukefenton 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Toxoplasmosis comes from cat feces dust. BUT there is something you can get from mouse droppings: hantavirus. I agree, to be on the safe side get someone else to launder the stuff. But if you are like me - well - my job is house cleaning and residential rehab of rental properties and homes for sale. It's not practical for me to take 9 months off work and throughout my pregnancy I've been exposed to cat urine and feces, mouse droppings, etc. Just try to limit your exposure and keep your immune system up through basic healthy living. Good luck!
2007-02-24 08:10:00 · answer #3 · answered by Angie 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with Brian W. To be on the safe side get your husband to get them and wash them for you. Even if you wore gloves or, heck, even a full radiation protection suit, you would probably still worry.
Better to save yourself the worry and have your man do it for you :)
2007-02-24 08:14:31 · answer #4 · answered by ♥Pamela♥ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Okay. maternity clothes can be rather inexpensive. Not sure I would even mess with them..EEEEEWWWWWWWWWW!
I would go naked before I messed with mouse turd stained clothes.
2007-02-24 08:39:32 · answer #5 · answered by proud2btysmom 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋