Ewww! and how to tell DM to change her habits

[LoopyLoopsOfSparklyFairyLights]

My mum has been looking after DD for a few hours today. I was here, but she doesn't get to see her very often and likes to do her cares when she's here. I'm grateful for a bit of a break.

BUT her hygiene leaves a lot to be desired. I just went into DD's room and fond 2 nappies on the floor, unfolded, unsure if used. I called my mum, who says yes, one is used, the other isn't, not sure which is which. Surprised when I asked her why it wasn't in the bin.

Every time she changes a nappy or goes to the loo I have to find a way of reminding her to wash her hands. She never does of her own accord. It is revolting, and I'm not sure how to approach it any more. She's too old for a sticker chart, isn't she?

Can't you start a conversation about how hygienic you are nowadays?

How simple hand washing has eradicated a lot of bugs in hospitals lately?

That sort of thing?

She's your mum, surely you can speak honestly to her ?? Just tell her that her hygiene leaves things to be desired and you'd prefer her to wash her hands after changing the nappy and please put the used nappy in the bin. Fairly simple conversation frankly!

She doesn't believe it.

Then don't let her mind your children until she does believe it. Or ask her if she'd prefer them to become sick due to her poor hygiene.

I mean, she doesn't believe that it is a good thing to wash your hands. She's adamant that clean hands = poor immunity.

And yes, she is my mum, but that doesn't make it any easier. She has mental health issues and I was in care.

Mmmm, I'd watch her every move then?

Simply, you can't let her look after your DD then. Let her visit, but not be sole charge.

No, well that's kind of why I stay in and she only looks after her when I'm here.

But really, dirty nappies on the floor that she crawls around on? Vile.