'No Touching' Signs Help Parents Keep Babies Safe From Pawing Strangers

Get one of these cute “no touching” signs to stop people from pawing at your baby

People just can’t seem to keep their damn hands to themselves when it comes to a cute little baby, so new parents are in a constant state of germ panic. Having a newborn is stressful for one million reasons, but the thought of your tiny one getting sick is top of the list of things to worry about. That’s why every new mom and dad needs a “no touching” sign to hang on their baby’s car seat (or bouncy seat or swing — whatever).

Because apparently, it needs to be said.

Not touching someone’s infant without permission (and then, a vigorous hand-washing) is a year-round thing that’s good to practice, but is particularly important as we head into flu season. As the CDC says, infants under six months are too young to receive a flu vaccine. They also note that flu complications for children under two can be serious — and little ones are at a higher risk. Complications stemming from flu infection include pneumonia, dehydration, encephalopathy, and even death.

That’s why new parents all need to invest in (or make) one of these signs:

They come in a number of adorable designs and with varying phrases. They can be cutesy.

Or more straight-forward, if that’s your style — or if your neighbor is particularly dense and needs to get the message quickly.

There are even tags made especially for preemies, because a whole other set of concerns comes along with your baby being born earlier than planned.

Of course, some people might think this is hysterical or going overboard. Those would be people who’ve never dealt with a very sick infant or who don’t understand how fragile a brand-new baby’s immune system can be. New parents might be too shy or exhausted or feel like they’re not being kind enough to a gift-bearing visitor or well-meaning stranger if they tell them to keep their paws off the baby — so that’s where the signs come in.

Look — it’s understandable that a new baby is irresistible to some, which is why squealing fans of infants might need a reminder to back up the truck and chat with mom or dad before grabbing at those sweet hands and feet (or, gross, kissing their faces). These signs are a super helpful tool for parents dealing with those too dim to ask permission (and wash hands) first.

It’s one less thing to worry about at a time when you have plenty of things to worry about.