I frequently read similar articles to this which suggest people with excessively clean homes are more likely to have children who develop allergies. Scientists have found that children from wealthier backgrounds who have an excessively clean lifestyle are less exposed to new irritants and so more likely to develop allergies. I can only assume that these people with their excessively clean houses are rich enough to employ cleaners to keep them that way. I can’t justify hiring one myself but must admit I don’t always have the house in a state of cleanliness or order. With 4 cats and a young child it seems to be a losing battle to keep on top of the housework. At least my children will build up an immunity in the process.