10 Ways To Reduce And Control Dust At Home

Have you been guilty of overlooking dust in your home? Cleaning up dust is important because it can have an effect on your health and well-being. This fine particulate matter is made up of dead skin cells, pet dander, pollen and even microscopic particles from the outdoor environment. It was even found that in Australia, there are concerning levels of arsenic and lead contamination in house dust which can increase cancer risk and affect immunity. It is essential to reduce dust levels in your household to maintain good indoor air quality and minimise allergy and respiratory symptoms.

Why Is Dust Harmful to Your Health?

The most common components of dust can include human skin cells, fabric fibres, pet dander and even microscopic dust mites. And while this may seem like a harmless annoyance, excessive dust can actually cause serious respiratory issues like asthma, sneezing and nasal congestion. This is because dust can trap and transport allergens, irritants and even harmful pollutants which can be inhaled and cause health issues.

One thing to note is that dust tends to accumulate more quickly in certain areas of your home like surfaces that are frequently touched or in rooms with poor air circulation. For example, you might have noticed that dust often collects on windowsills, shelves and tops of furniture where it can be stirred up through the air every time someone walks by or opens a window.

1. Vacuum Regularly with a HEPA Filter Vacuum

Cleaning regularly with a vacuum cleaner that is equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter ensures that even the smallest of dust particles, allergens and pollutants are trapped and not recirculated back into the air.

Some vacuum cleaner manufacturers like ECOVACS offer robot vacuum cleaners with HEPA filtration systems. For instance, the DEEBOT X2 COMBO comes with a handheld vacuum cleaner with a powerful HEPA system that can capture up to 99.97% of fine dust particles. It capture microscopic particles that traditional vacuums may miss and provide a more thorough cleaning.

2. Use Microfiber Cloths for Dusting Furniture

Microfiber cloths are a great choice for dusting furniture and other surfaces in your home. They are designed to attract and trap dust, dirt and small particles that you may miss if you were to use regular rags. You can use a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove even the smallest of specks from your surfaces. Plus, they are easy to hand or machine wash to maintain their condition. However, over time you may need to replace your microfiber cloths as they are wear down

3. Install Air Purifiers with HEPA Filters

One of the best ways to have good indoor air quality in your home is by using air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters. These can capture even the smallest of airborne pollutants and ensure that the air you and your family breathe is clean and free of harmful particles. Make sure you place your air purifier in key areas of your home like the living room, bedrooms and home office and can significantly improve the overall air quality.

4. Declutter Your Living Spaces

Keeping your living space tidy can make a big difference in reducing dust build-up in your home. Try to minimise the number of items, especially those that tend to collect dust, such as knick-knacks and unnecessary furniture. You can use storage containers for items that you don’t need to use regularly to prevent dust from settling on them. For example, seasonal clothing, hobby and craft supplies, keepsakes, old electronics and accessories can all be kept in storage boxes. This not only keeps your belongings in better condition but also contributes to a cleaner and more organised living space.

5. Wash Bedding, Rugs, and Curtains Frequently

Frequently washing your bedding, rugs and curtains can also help you avoid dust in your home. Wash your sheets, pillowcases and blankets weekly in hot water to get rid of dust mites as these can be a common trigger for people who have allergies or respiratory issues. Regularly clean your curtains and upholstered furniture to maintain a fresh and allergen-free living space. You can do this with the help of a vacuum, a gentle wash or even hire professional cleaning services.

6. Keep Windows and Doors Closed During High Pollen Seasons

During high pollen seasons, you can reduce the amount of pollen that enters your living space by keeping your windows and doors closed as much as possible. This is especially true if you live in certain regions of Australia that have high pollen for most of the year like Brisbane and Darwin. Pollen is a common trigger for those who suffer from allergies and can easily blow in through open windows and doors causing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion. By keeping these access points sealed, you can create a barrier that helps keep pollen at bay. If this is not practical, consider alternative ventilation methods, such as using air conditioning or running an air purifier.

7. Clean or Replace Air Vents, Ducts, and AC Filters Regularly

Dust, dirt and debris can build up in air vents, ducts and air conditioning filters over time, reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system and cause air quality issues. Air filters should be cleaned over 1 to 3 months, depending on things like number of occupants, pets and activity levels in your home. Air vents and ducts should be inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure unobstructed airflow and prevent the spread of allergens and pollutants throughout your home. To know more about filters, read our articles on how to clean robot vacuum filters and how to clean vacuum cleaner filters.

8. Use Doormats at Entryways

A simple way to control the amount of dirt and debris that gets tracked inside your home is to use doormats at all entryways. They serve as the first line of defence, capturing dirt, mud and other unwanted particles before they can be brought inside on your shoes or feet. They also protect your flooring from premature wear and tear. Look for mats made from materials like rubber or synthetic fibres that are designed to trap and hold onto dirt and moisture. Remember to clean your doormats so that they continue to perform their job effectively. You can shake them out, vacuum them or even give them a quick rinse with a hose.

9. Groom Pets Regularly

Brush your pet outdoors frequently to remove excess fur and dander and reduce the amount that accumulates indoors. This way, your living spaces will stay clean and it will also prevent your pet from ingesting or inhaling loose hair which can cause digestive or respiratory issues. Bathing your pet periodically using a gentle pet-safe shampoo also reduces the loose hair and dander. Plus, it’s a great way to monitor their overall health because you can look out for signs of skin irritation, fleas or other concerns that may require veterinary attention.

10. Choose the Right Flooring

The right flooring can make a difference in how much dust ends up in your home. Hard flooring options like hardwood, tile or laminate are usually easier to keep clean and dust-free using a robot vacuum. If you prefer the warmth and softness of carpeting but your home attracts dust, you can use washable area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpets. They’ll have the cosy feeling that you’re looking for, while also being easier to clean and maintain than full-room carpets. Make sure you clean your rugs regularly to keep them looking their best and prevent the build up of dust and allergens.

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