Did you give your helper specific personal hygiene instructions while handling the baby -- products to avoid because of strong chemical component, deodorant to be rid of body odour, hair always tied back? I want to give my helper a list - but not sure how she will react to it. Any suggestions?

some of the things you mentioned are clearly important, such as keeping the hair tied. but instead of instructing, i would suggest speak to her normally and with reason. i also told my help about the hair tying thing and explained why it is important. about the other things, instead of asking to buy, get her a set of toiletries and tell her that you all use similar toiletries around your baby and would prefer she uses the same while she is in the house.