A recent study conducted by Dyson, the popular manufacturer of vacuum cleaners and grooming products, sheds light on the changing cleaning habits and challenges faced by households in India in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The “Dyson Global Dust Study 2023” highlights a significant rise in cleaning motivation among Indians due to increased awareness of the virus.
The study, which involved over 30,000 participants from 39 countries, revealed intriguing insights into India’s cleaning landscape. Notably, over 80 per cent of Indians were found to be unaware that the virus can survive on surfaces for more than two days, indicating a lack of knowledge about viral persistence outside the body.
“One in two Indians are aware of the virus’ presence in dust and express deep concerns, but only 32 per cent prioritize cleaning to eradicate viruses from areas such as their living room, bedroom, and kitchen,” the study reported. This finding suggests a gap between understanding the importance of cleaning and implementing effective cleaning routines.
One of the significant challenges highlighted in the study is the perception that visible dirt or dust is the primary motivator for cleaning. Around 42 per cent of respondents admitted to cleaning their households only when they can see visible dust.
The study also revealed interesting insights into Indians’ misconceptions about areas that harbor viruses within their homes. While 60 per cent of respondents believed that toilets were the worst offenders, and 45 per cent associated viruses with the kitchen, the report noted that more than 70 per cent did not prioritize virus removal while cleaning the kitchen. Additionally, less than 25 per cent of participants considered kitchen worktops, appliances, and cabinets as potential sources of viruses.
Despite 55 per cent of households worldwide having individuals affected by allergies, only a small percentage of respondents were aware of common allergy-inducing agents present in dust. Pollen was acknowledged by only 33 per cent of participants, while a mere 32 per cent were familiar with the potential presence of dust mite feces.
Dyson’s engineers stressed the importance of understanding the different types of dust to effectively clean households. “Spontaneous awareness of what makes up dust remains relatively low,” they emphasized. This highlights the need for education and awareness campaigns to inform individuals about the constituents of household dust and promote thorough cleaning practices.
The study also revealed shifts in cleaning priorities in India compared to the previous year. In 2022, only 31 per cent of respondents considered cleaning a top priority. However, this number increased to 61 per cent in 2023, indicating a heightened emphasis on cleanliness in Indian households. Nevertheless, the study’s findings highlight the challenges in transforming this increased motivation into consistent cleaning practices.
As the world continues to grapple with the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dyson Global Dust Study 2023 serves as a reminder of the importance of informed cleaning habits. It emphasizes the need for ongoing education on dust-related allergens, the persistence of viruses on surfaces, and effective cleaning techniques to ensure healthier living environments for individuals and their families.
