Before the emergence of Covid-19, we were already spending more than 85% of our time in enclosed spaces (home, work, school, etc.)3, which has only increased further due to the health crisis. As comfortable as our living spaces may be, they can be full of allergens and pollutants that are harmful to our health—primarily due to their impact on air quality—with some studies showing that indoor air can be five to ten times more polluted than outdoor air4. The problem becomes even worse in winter when outdoor temperatures drop and indoor temperatures rise (due to central heating, fireplaces, etc.).

But it's not just dust mites that cause allergies in our homes; our four-legged friends can also cause certain allergic reactions. In fact, almost 7% of the Swiss population over the age of 18 suffer from a pet-related allergy⁷. Cats and dogs secrete particles via their saliva or fur⁸, and once these have been released into the air and settle on fabrics and furniture, they are likely to be inhaled by people with allergies⁸. To help the most sensitive allergy sufferers breathe easier, it is unfortunately recommended for them to consider living without pets.