Dust is just a general nuisance: it’s unsightly, and can set off allergy-related trouble and even cause respiratory issues. -Household cleaning, of course, can itself be a bit of a nuisance… but fret not! If you’re looking for ways to reduce dust in your home, we invite you to read along below for some simple but helpful tips to consider:
1. Vacuum Often
A vacuum with a HEPA filter is best for trapping the teeny-tiny stuff. Hard surfaces should be vacuumed once a week, while carpet and rugs should be vacuumed twice a week—especially if they’re high-traffic areas and/or you have pets that like to lie on them (or worse…).
A dirty vacuum that isn’t emptied regularly could end up pushing more dust out than picking it up. Empty the canister and change bags and belts when needed, keep the brush wheel free of hair and other material, check for cracks or loose hinges, and get it serviced every so often to keep it running smoothly.
2. Change Your Bedding Regularly
Dust mites absolutely adore slightly (if, to us, imperceptibly) moist environments—which is what all of our bedding is naturally bound to become, like it or not—so laundering it in hot water weekly (with a thorough drying to follow) will cut down majorly on dust mites. Consider encasing your mattress and box spring in vinyl allergen-blocking covers if you’re a dust-allergy sufferer.
3. Fewer Textiles
Textiles not only trap dust, but create it as they gradually shed and disintegrate. Leather, wood, acrylic, and plastic (-e.g.), on the other hand, leave no place for dust to hide—and are easily cleaned. Consider going with bare wood floors with washable scatter rugs, but if your heart is set on carpet, consider opting for a shorter “pile.”
4. Declutter/Streamline
This is as simple as it gets: the more items you have, the more nooks and crannies exist for dust to call home. Try keeping items in plastic bins, and consider putting collectibles (especially those you wouldn’t want to have to frequently “attack” with the ol’ duster…) under glass.
5. Mind Your Furry Friends’… Leavings
Contrary to the common misconception, even short-hair breeds or pets that shed very little do nonetheless emit dander and flaking skin that (cumulatively) adds to your “dust heap.” Using your method of choice, be sure to get up all the pet hair and dander wherever it might be attempting to hide, and consider make a weekly habit of brushing and grooming your pet. (It’s good for them, anyway! Note, though, that bathing a pet too often can be rough/harmful for their skin; consult your veterinarian for advice on best practices.)
6. Sweep, Sweep, Sweep
An angled, synthetic-bristle broom is best for getting into corners and picking up smaller particles than a natural-fiber broom. Then, a quick/damp mopping will nicely seal the deal.
7. Air Purification
Air purifiers can work wonders to reduce common pollutants like dust, pet dander, smoke, and other harmful airborne particles. Note: When shopping for an air purifier, make sure to get a true HEPA filter.
8. Don’t Fall Behind on Regular Cleaning
Okay, maybe this is the most basic, yet perhaps most important. Regular dusting and wiping down surfaces with a damp cloth will also surely help reduce dust in your home.
Closing Thoughts:
Reducing the overall dust level in your home takes some effort and diligence, but it’s certainly worth it to improve your indoor air quality and reduce allergens—not to mention keeping things lookin’ spiffy. By following these easy tips, you can help create a cleaner, healthier living environment for yourself and your loved ones.
Cleaning Tips and Services from A 360 Cleaning
A 360 Cleaning has provided Maryland with top-notch professional cleaning and janitorial services for over 12 years. We don’t cut corners and ensure that every customer is satisfied with their cleaning. Whether you need a glitter spill cleaned up or an entire office building, we are happy to help! We currently serve the following areas: Baltimore, Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park. To explore how we can help keep your windows clean all year long, give us a call at 410-852-5800 or visit us online. For more cleaning tips, follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Tags: cleaning, dust, dusting, reducing allergens, reducing allergies, reducing dust