Dyson study finds traditional wet cleaning methods in India may be making floors dirtier, not cleaner

A recent study by Dyson has cast a shadow on India's traditional cleaning practices, suggesting that the nation's fervent commitment to maintaining spotless homes may inadvertently be contributing to dirtier floors. Released on June 26, 2025, Dyson's inaugural Global Wet Cleaning Study reveals that while Indian households are at the forefront in terms of cleaning frequency and duration, the methods employed often fall short of achieving true hygiene. The study highlights that 94.5% of Indian homes feature hard flooring materials like tiles, stone, or wood, which necessitate consistent wet cleaning. However, the prevalent use of mops, cloths, and buckets may not only be ineffective but could also exacerbate the problem. Alarmingly, nearly half of the surveyed participants (49%) confessed to not changing their cleaning water between rooms, which could lead to the spreading of dirt rather than its removal. Tim Hare, a Dyson Engineer, emphasized this point, stating, "Indians exhibit extraordinary dedication in cleaning their floors, with nearly 1 in 2 engaging in daily cleaning—more than twice the global average. However, increased frequency does not equate to improved hygiene. Traditional cleaning tools and techniques might actually facilitate the distribution of dirt and bacteria." The report further reveals that one-third of Indian respondents find wet cleaning excessively time-consuming, while 28% describe the process as physically exhausting. Common grievances include ineffective edge cleaning, slippery surfaces, and challenges in reaching tight spots. Despite these hurdles, only 33% of participants believe that cloths or sponges effectively clean hard floors. Interestingly, a significant 62% of Indians regard vacuum cleaners with wet functionality as the ideal solution, yet knowledge and usage of advanced cleaning technologies remain limited. In response to these insights, Dyson has launched the Dyson WashG1, a groundbreaking wet floor cleaner capable of addressing both wet and dry debris in a single pass. This innovative device employs dual counter-rotating microfiber rollers alongside a separation system that keeps dirty water and solid debris distinct. Moreover, it features self-cleaning technology and rapid drying capabilities, ensuring floors are ready to walk on 80% faster compared to conventional mopping methods. Dyson also showcased its versatile Dyson V12s Detect Slim Submarine, a cordless vacuum cleaner that merges traditional vacuuming with a wet roller head for comprehensive cleaning. Equipped with powerful suction, anti-tangle technology, and illumination features, this device is engineered to tackle everything from fine dust to stubborn spills.