How to Reduce Dust in Your Home

Though it is nearly impossible to have a completely dust free home, you can at least reduce the amount of it. This is especially helpful for those with allergies or asthma. Perhaps the easiest way to keep dust from collecting in your home is to cut down on the number of surfaces available for it to collect on.

The bedroom is definitely the place to start when attempting to eliminate dust from your home. You are more likely to have adverse reactions to dust in this room more than any other. The first task in ridding the boudoir of dust is to remove any knickknacks and extra furniture. If you need a lamp in the bedroom, opt for a shade that is glass or plastic as fabric shades not only collect dust, but are also more difficult to clean. Keeping only one bed in the room also helps. Encase box springs and mattresses in a dust proof or allergen proof cover. These are generally made of plastic and zippered, and can be found in most stores that sell other bedding. Vacuum both the mattress and box spring before encasing them to remove some of the mites and dust. If there must be two beds in a room, prepare the mattress the same way. Keep any pets with fur or feathers out of the bedroom as well. Most people who are allergic to dust mites are also allergic to cats, dogs, or other animals. There are also many sprays and cleaners available to eliminate dust further. Use only washable materials on the bed. All bedclothes should be washed at least once a week in water at least 130°F (54 °C). Temperatures lower than this will not be hot enough to kill dust mites. It is a good idea to use several layers of blankets for warmth rather than one large comforter. This is because you can split up blankets in the wash to make sure they are properly cleaned, whereas a bulky comforter can bind up in the washing machine and may not come clean.

Carpeting, in any room of the house, makes controlling dust impossible. Though shag carpets are the worst type for those who are sensitive to dust, all carpets trap dust. Hardwood flooring, tile, and linoleum floors are obviously the least likely to hold on to dust. In fact, removing carpet from a home can eliminate up to 90% of the dust mites and other allergens in the air. Carpeting can be treated with tannic acid to eliminate some of the dust mite allergens, but it is not as effective as removing the carpet altogether. This does, however, irritate some people and must be applied repeatedly. Should you choose to keep carpet or rugs in the house, each room must be vacuumed every 4-7 days at least. You should also opt for a low-pile type of carpeting. If you would really like to see how much dust is in your house, attach a white cloth to the end of your vacuum's hose with a rubber band. Run the vacuum over your bedclothes, curtains, carpets, etc. You will be amazed at how much dust and dirt is hiding throughout your home. Make certain you move the bed, sofa, and any other large pieces and vacuum or sweep underneath them as well. Never leave the vacuum out after use either, as it is, obviously, full of dust mites. It is also a good idea to clean the vacuum after each use. Empty the canister or change the bag outdoors if possible. If you have a canister model, rinse the canister thoroughly. Those who are allergic should not vacuum, and should avoid the area for about an hour afterwards as well. Damp dusting after vacuuming also helps dispel some of the dust.

In all rooms of the house, keep furniture and accessories to a minimum. Avoid upholstered furniture when possible, as well as cloth or Venetian blinds. To make upholstered furniture easier to keep clean, use a washable slipcover. If curtains are required, plain, lightweight, washable fabrics work best. Note that curtains should be washed weekly in hot water like your bed sheets. All surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly on a weekly basis. Clean floors, furniture, the tops of doors, window and door frames, and window sills with a damp cloth. Air the room out after doing this as it will stir up dust briefly. Again, those who are severely allergic should not perform these tasks, and they should refrain from re-entering the house until the dust has settled, usually at least an hour. Lingering dust in the air may trigger an asthma attack or irritate allergies.

Keep an eye out for any furniture that tends to collect dust. Anything ornate, open bookshelves and cluttered areas will invite dust to settle there. Never leave clothing lying about, always keep these items in drawers or closets. Enclose dense fabrics like wool in plastic zipper bags. Avoid mothballs, insect sprays, and tar paper. Close drawers and closet doors when not in use. If you do have a collection of, well, dust-collectors, store them in enclosed cabinets.

By keeping your home clean and well-ventilated, you can significantly reduce the amount of dust present. It may require some work on your part, but in the end, your family will be healthier and happier.