You really don't have to go overboard in your quest to banish germs from your baby's life. In fact, you'd be doing your little one a favor by keeping a few baby germs around. Scientists now think that a baby's immune system is like an unprogrammed computer at birth that needs instructions to learn to fight off bacteria & viruses. Kids raised in a too-clean house may not get the exposure they need to strengthen their immune systems, which some experts think may lead to the development of allergies. Here are some sensible ways to eradicate germs • Ask everyone to remove their shoes before they come inside. Since your baby spends a lot of time on the floor • Keep potential allergens like pet dander, dust, & mold at bay, vacuum once a week using a HEPA filter. • Keep your toilets & bathrooms shut & clean always.