Dyson Global Dust Study 2023: Insights into Indian Pet Owners’ Cleaning Habits and Implications on Well-being

India, Jan 03, 2024: The pet care industry in India is witnessing remarkable growth, with almost one in every six Indians now owning a pet. As pets become cherished family members, the challenges of maintaining cleanliness, particularly regarding pet hair, dander, and skin flakes, have become evident. Dyson’s Global Dust Study 2023 delves into cleaning habits, behaviors, and the understanding of household dust, shedding light on the potential impact on overall well-being.

Despite the growth in pet ownership, the study reveals that only 1 in 10 pet owners feels guilty about neglecting cleaning tasks. While there is high awareness of potential viruses in homes with pets, only 27% of pet owners consistently engage in daily cleaning routines. The study emphasizes a crucial disconnect between acknowledging the importance of cleaning and implementing regular habits.

Key Findings on Cleaning Habits of Pet Owners in India:

• Only 28% of pet owners take complete responsibility for cleaning their homes.
• 21% include cleaning their pet baskets in their general cleaning routine.
• 41% believe household dust can contribute to allergies like pet allergens, pollen, and dust mites.
• 42% allow their pets on sofas, unaware that they leave dander, potentially carrying viruses and allergens.
• Only 31% prioritize concerns around animal/pet hair during the cleaning process.

Monika Stuczen, Research Scientist in Microbiology at Dyson, emphasizes the microscopic nature of particles residing on pets beyond visible pet hair, contributing to potential health issues. While regular vacuuming reduces shed pet hair, microscopic particles on pets can still be spread around homes.

Dyson introduces the “Pet Groom Tool,” addressing pet hair concerns by allowing pet parents to brush loose hair directly into Dyson cord-free vacuum cleaners. This innovative tool is designed for dogs and cats with medium and long hair, providing a game-changing solution for pet owners.

The study notes positive shifts in cleaning habits, with more people vacuuming commonly overlooked spaces like mattresses and sofas. While Indians exhibit high awareness of virus presence in dust, Dyson stresses the importance of complete removal of dust allergens from homes.

Monika suggests using a wet cloth for cleaning but emphasizes the sequence of cleaning tools. Dyson’s research focuses on understanding household dust complexities, developing filters and seals to capture visible and invisible dust, ensuring a clean and hygienic home.

As the pet care industry continues to thrive, Dyson’s study underscores the need for informed cleaning practices to enhance overall well-being and mitigate potential health risks associated with household dust, especially for pet owners.