A recent survey of 1,000 parents with children aged between 2-12 discovered that a whopping 55% sweat over mud getting indoors - whether it's in the car, smeared on clothes, or on the floors.
Over two thirds have admitted to, on occasion, making their kids strip off their muddy clothes at the house door, to avoid getting mud inside. A disapproving 27% immediately pull their kids away from outdoor play the moment they get dirty.
While parents have concerns about cleaning up and their children getting sick, a solid 75% reckon getting stuck into messy capers like painting, crafting, and roughhousing outdoors is key for kids.
Almost three quarters think messy play is a crucial part of a child’s development and key part of childhood.
Telly star Binky Felstead is all for diving headfirst into the mess this autumn, advocating that families get down and dirty without a worry. Sharing her two pence, she said: "I'm determined to bring my kids up in a household that doesn't fear mud."
Felstead, who made her childhood memories romping around in the countryside, champions playtime joy over spotlessness, saying: "I'm a country girl and I grew up playing outside, there's so much joy in playtime, and we shouldn't see mud as the enemy - letting my children have fun outdoors is a must."
"You only have to see their faces to know it's having a positive effect on India, Wolfie and Wilder. I know the 'clean-up fear' that comes with messy play - and it's often easier to say no than to make time for it - with all the other things we have to do as busy parents" she adds.
The 'Made in Chelsea' alum was even clocked sliding down a custom mudslide at Mudchute Farm in London. This muddy shindig - courtesy of Bosch to toast its Unlimited 7 Aqua beast of a gadget that doubles as a cordless vacuum and mop.
Like Binky, a whopping 92% of parents believe outdoor activities such as running or playing in the mud enhance their child's wellbeing. A third even encourage their children to get muddy to help build immunity against germs.
The spokesperson for Bosch commented: "Getting a bit dirty, within reason, is part of growing up. It's understandable that some parents want to keep kids tidy, but the truth is the mess can be cleaned up in no time, whilst the memories last a lifetime."
"It's tempting to say 'no' to mud but we're pleased to be able to bring a solution to parents across the UK that means saying 'yes' without the hassle of cleaning up."
English (US) ·