What Are Allergies?
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a harmless substance as though it’s dangerous. This overreaction triggers symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These substances are called allergens.
Where Do They Come From?
Genetics: If your parents have allergies, your chances increase.
Environment: Exposure to allergens, pollution, and hygiene habits during early life influence the development of allergies
Immune System Dysregulation: Over-sanitization (the ‘hygiene hypothesis’) is one theory — it suggests a lack of microbial exposure can create a hypersensitive immune system.
Irritants or Sensitizers: Repeated exposure to certain substances (e.g., harsh cleaning products) can cause sensitization over time.
Types of Allergies
🤧 Respiratory Allergies
Triggered by: Dust mites, pet dander, mould spores, pollen, VOCs from cleaning products.
Symptoms: Sneezing, coughing, wheezing, watery eyes, sinus issues.
Relevant Environment Factors: Poor vacuuming, unventilated spaces, mouldy bathrooms.
🧤 Skin Allergies (Contact Dermatitis)
Triggered by: Chemicals in cleaning products, gloves, fragrances, preservatives.
Symptoms: Rash, redness, itching, burning, blistering.
Often confused with: Sensitivities or irritant reactions (not immune-based but still problematic).
🥜 Food Allergies
Sometimes indirectly relevant in daycares or kitchens where food residue needs to be removed safely.
😣 Chemical Sensitivities/MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity)
Often self-diagnosed, but real distress: headaches, fatigue, nausea from exposure to scents, sprays, synthetic chemicals.
Key concern for fragrance-free homes or eco-focused clients.
IS DUST A MAJOR CAUSE OF ALLERGIES?
Yes. It’s one of the most significant indoor allergy triggers.
Household dust contains a cocktail: dust mites, skin cells, insect waste, microplastics, textile fibers, pollen, pet dander, etc.
Dust mites are a major culprit — they feed on skin flakes and thrive in warm, humid areas (carpets, mattresses, couches).
Other Common Indoor Allergens
|
Allergen |
Found In |
Cleaning Response |
|---|---|---|
|
Mould spores |
Bathrooms, kitchens, under sinks, window seals |
Use anti-mould solutions, proper ventilation |
|
Pet dander |
Furniture, rugs, corners |
High-suction vacuuming, microfiber wiping |
|
VOCs |
Air fresheners, synthetic cleaners |
Use low-VOC or VOC-free alternatives |
|
Fragrances |
Sprays, air fresheners, scented products |
Offer fragrance-free or essential oil-based options |
|
Pollen |
Windowsills, ventilation, doorways |
Wipe surfaces, HEPA filtration |
The Power of Vacuuming: Why HEPA Matters
Did you know that 90% of household debris can be removed with proper vacuuming?
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters trap 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger and without one, vacuums can actually blow the allergens back into the air.
Best Practice:
✅ Use sealed systems + HEPA filtration.
✅ Vacuum before wiping or mopping to reduce airborne spread.
✅ Vacuum slow and cross-directionally for deep debris extraction.
Check out our HEPA Filter HERE
Servicing Clients with Allergies
Ask First, Clean Smart
During the onboarding process, ask them "Do you have any allergies that we should be aware of?"
Let clients choose from fragrance free, low-tox or standard cleaning.
Don't Rely on Natural
Many "green" products use essential oils or botanicals that can still trigger allergies. Prioritise low-irritant products over trendy products. Less isn't always better.
Check out our range of Banyar Jagun HERE
Prioritise Mechanical over Chemical
Mechanical cleaning (microfibre, scrubbing, vacuuming) is often safer and more effective for allergy clients than over-relying on sprays and scents.
Check out our range of vacuums HERE
Use the Right PPE
Gloves, masks and ventilation agents aren't just for the cleaner - they also prevent residue that can affect sensitive clients later.
Check out our gloves HERE