How To Effectively Bust That Dust
1. Improve your dusting technique
Rather than using a feather duster, it's better to use a damp cloth or some of the "charged" wipes now being sold which will actually capture dust as you clean. Use a dusting spray to help remove dust rather than just move it.
2. Vacuum your carpets, fabric surfaces, and thick curtains frequently
A vacuum with the filter replaced every 3-6 months will ensure you aren’t simply spreading the dust around.
3. Change your air filters on a regular basis
Regular HVAC maintenance is one method for preventing dust buildup. Clean and change your system’s air filters at least seasonally, more if you have pets or live in an area with high levels of airborne particles.
4. Seal gaps around windows and doors
Take the time to find air leaks in your home. This will prevent dust particles, insects, pollen, and pollution from entering your home. An added bonus is the increased ability to maintain a more consistent and comfortable interior temperature.
5. Clean your home’s ductwork
Dust can build up in your HVAC system and ducts, even if you regularly change your filters. Cleaning air ducts will improve overall air quality.
6. Regulate your home’s humidity levels
Too much humidity promotes mold and spore growth as well as dust mites, while too little humidity can cause dust problems and dry skin. Repair water leaks, seal damp basements, and use fans in bathrooms and attics. An energy-efficient humidifier can be invaluable in regulating humidity.
7. Avoid wearing shoes in the house
Remove your shoes at the door to cut down on dust and microbes on your floor AND to save wear-and-tear on carpets.
8. Wash your sheets and comforters often
Wash your bedding in hot water weekly, or bi-weekly at a minimum. Bedding traps skin particles and pet dander in its fibers, which feed dust mites. Loose fibers in bedding add to dust in your bedroom. Washing in hot water not only removes dust, it kills dust mites. Airing out comforters in between washings can also help reduce dust collection.
9. Invest in an air purifier
A certain amount of dust will remain airborne no matter what you do. An energy-efficient air purifier will remove most dust particles and pollution. The following products have high consumer ratings:
LEVOIT Air Purifier Core 300 and
Pet Allergy Filter.
10. Keep air circulating throughout your home with ceiling fans
As shared in our June blog, there is a switch on ceiling fans to change the direction - down or left in summer creates a downdraft, up or right in winter causes an updraft.
