Do you consider yourself to be a super cleanaholic? Neat freak perhaps? Or even, dare I say, a germaphobe?

Would you describe yourself as OCD? Or do your friends ever say to you, “Oh you’re such a Howard (as in Hughes, think Aviator).”

Perhaps you are obsessed with all things antiseptically delicious — wipes, foams, soaps, etc? You might even carry Purell or other gel-like products in your purse, on your key chain, underneath your pillow, strapped to your thigh, tucked in your bra.

If so… this post will give you the chance to break free from your self-imposed prison! And if you are NOT totally neurotic antibacterially inclined, then this post will give you the high-five, chest bump, fist-pounding approval you’ve so desperately needed.

*Pointing to self*

My dear friend and doctor-to-be, Heather, sent me the link to this NY Times article, Babies Know: A Little Dirt Is Good For You. In short, the study says it’s ok — healthy even– to get dirty and germy once in awhile. It’s even good for your little one to to be exposed to cooties. It does the body good (in moderation).

It was fascinating to learn that some types of worms are known to prevent or reverse certain types of autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn’s disease, allergies and asthma.

One doctor from the study suggested that using too many antibacterial products may increase the likelihood of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Using plain soap and water is sufficient. And bonus points for you if you have household pets! Having pets allows your kid to be exposed to intestinal worms that can promote a healthy immune system. Yum-O!

So, next time I’m in any of these situations, I will invoke Parental Code 7.318a – Germs Are Good So There!

• Pacifier gets chucked on the floor by angry Noob Baby. Pop said pacifier back in her mouth after blowing it off for good measure. Receive dirty looks from people who are clearly not classified as parents. BAM! Invoke PC7.318a. Case Closed.

• Noob Baby grabs fistful of cat’s alluring tail. Furry hand goes into baby’s mouth. Sweeeeeet! Bonus points for intestinal worm guys. Invoke PC7.318a. Case Closed.

• Noob Baby sucks viciously on stroller and car seat straps that may or may not have been dragged through various parking lots. Invoke PC7.318a. Case Closed.

• I suck Noob Baby sucks on Noob Baby’s feet. Invoke PC7.318a. Case Closed.

• Noob Baby discovers ancient Gerber Puff artifact that was encased in fuzzy lint to preserve its magical healing powers. NB decides to consume Gerber relic in hopes of crawling faster. Invoke PC7.318a. Case Closed.

And lastly… the best reason to invoke PC7.318a – Germs Are Good So There!

Germs taste good. And so do cat cheeks.

Have you allowed caught your Noob eating something a little germy, a little contraband? Go ahead and get it off your chest. I won’t judge you