Rental business operators’ sanitation management is required in cleaning and sterilizing the baby goods on a regular basis because Staphylococcus aureus were detected in the one item (100cfu/10㎠).

In terms of packaging conditions, 8 out of 19 items were delivered in cartons, 3 items were in plastic bags and 8 products were sent without packaging. 

It is essential to complete an appropriate sanitary process and pack the products in order to deliver uncontaminated goods to consumers.   

■ Simulation test results

It is advised for consumers to use the rental products after washing them for safety.

For the appropriate sanitation management of the rental baby items at home, the simulation test has been conducted to find out the level of bacteria can be cleaned through washing.

The test was conducted in 4 different ways in order to trace the level of bacteria; 1) Leave the plastic made baby item with germs for 4 hours under the sun, 2) Clean the item with wet towels, 3) Wash it under running water, 4) Wash it under running water after cleaning with detergent.  

Results showed that 41.4% of general germs were removed when leaving the baby item for 4 hours under the sun, 86.2% of bacteria were deleted when cleaning it with wet towels, and 98.6% of bacteria were eliminated when washing it under the running water.  All bacteria were removed when washing it with detergent.  Thereby, it is helpful to wash the rental goods before using for the proper sanitation management.  

It is advised of consumers to keep the instructions for use and return the rental items in a clean and neat state.    

The Korea Consumer Agency and the National Council of the Green Consumers Network in Korea recommended the rental business operators to conduct the appropriate sanitation management process of the rental baby items (regular cleaning-->sterilizing-->sanitary packaging-->delivery) to prevent contamination.  On the other hand, consumers are requested to wash the rental items before using them for their children’s hygiene.