Dust mites, cockroach allergens remain in Indian homes despite traditional cleaning: Study

Bacteria, dust mites, fungi spores and cockroach allergens continue to be present in homes and cars in India, despite regular cleaning by traditional methods, a joint study by FICCI Research and Analysis Centre and British tech firm Dyson said.

Traditional cleaning methods such as dusting, sweeping and mopping could not remove bacteria, dust mite, dog and cockroach allergens that were found in mattress surfaces and sitting and playing areas, among others, according to the study titled 'Indian Household Hidden Dust Study 2018'.

"Indian homes are commonly seen to have clean floors, furniture and seemingly neat and tidy beds. They usually perform cleaning on a daily basis. By investigating the hidden dust from these homes, we found that cockroach allergens, dust mites, mould and bacteria were commonly present," FICCI Research and Analysis Centre (FRAC) Chief Executive Officer Shantanu Khandelwal said.

He added, "Often not visible, these dust particles can trigger allergy symptoms particularly in people who are predisposed towards allergies."