Best Products to Keep Kids Healthy from Back-to-School Germs or Sickness

Back-to-school season means it's time to stock up on some products that will keep kids free of germs that may be lurking in the classroom, locker rooms and playground. Stocking up on some of these basics before the season begins can help to ward off a nasty cold, the flu virus, infections and illnesses that could take kids out of school for a few days. Make sure your kids and teens are ready for the new school year with products that eliminate germs and ward off sickness:

Pocket-Size Hand Sanitizer

Using a hand sanitizer throughout the day can get rid of infection-causing germs and may also ward off certain types of illnesses. Kids and teens that are active in sports or spend a lot of time at the computer can benefit from using a hand sanitizer after their activities. A pocket-sized hand sanitizer, $1.29 to $6.99+, fits conveniently in a backpack, tote bag, back pocket or even inside a lunchbox or pencil case. A few squirts of sanitizing gel is all it takes to keep hands free of germs and bacteria.

Sanitizing Wipes

A box or container of sanitizing wipes is great for the locker or backpack during back-to-school season. Purell Sanitizing Wipes, $8.18 to $55.58, can be used to clean up messes and also to keep hands clean throughout the day. The wipes are infused with a germ-killing formula, so they might help to prevent the spread of infections and germs throughout the school day. Encourage kids and teens to wipe their hands with these frequently throughout the day, and especially after time in the playground, at the gym, and after group activities.

Vitamin C Drink Mix

Vitamin C-infused drink mixes can be a healthy addition to anyone's diet. Emergen-C Vitamin C drink mixes, $2.93 to $3.97, can be enjoyed any time of year, and can be especially effective during cold and winter season. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system and can keep colds, infections and some types of sickness at bay. These also contain electrolytes, B-vitamins and antioxidants, and can add a powerful punch to any healthy diet.

Sanitizing Hand Lotion

Kids and teens can keep their hands soft and smooth -- and free of germs during a busy school day -- with the help of some sanitizing hand lotion. Gold Bond Ultimate Hand Sanitizing Moisturizer, $1.70 to $67.69 contains both germ-killing ingredients and hydrating moisturizers. It's alcohol-free so it won't strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier. Kids and teens can carry a tube of this moisturizer in their backpack or store one in their locker to use each time they wash their hands.