Dusting is a simple household chore that cannot be left undone for too long. With the right techniques and tools it is done easily and efficiently.
- Always work from the top down. Vacuum floor immediately afterward.
- Once a month, detail dust in places you can’t see such as moldings, top of doors, ceiling fans, light bulbs (when cool), etc.
- Move items to dust underneath.
- Avoid flicking the cloth which releases dust particles back into the room. Fold it to a clean surface and replace with a fresh cloth as needed.
- Avoid dusting sprays. The oils in them attract more dust, and they build up over time, damaging the finish on your furniture.
Fun (or maybe not so fun) facts about dust:
- The average house collects about 40 pounds of dust each year.
- Dust is made up of rock, sawdust and pollen, hair, dead skin and insect bodies.
- Dust comes into the house on people and pets and seeps in through loose windows and doors.
Ways to reduce dust:
- Eliminate drafts.
- Place doormats inside and out.
- Vacuum as needed or at least weekly.
- Use the right dusting tools.
Tools for dusting:
- Vacuum cleaner
- With the dust brush attachment for blinds, ceilings and walls.
- With the crevice tool for corners and other tight spots.
- With the upholstery tool for sofas, throw pillows, chairs and beds.
- Lamb’s wool duster
- Natural lanolin oils combine with static electricity to attract and hold dust.
- Use for general dusting as you would a feather duster.
- Electrostatic duster (Swiffer™ wipes)
- Attracts dust and holds on to tiny airborne particles which makes them good for people with allergies.
- Use for general dusting.
- Are disposable, so less economical. Try to find machine-washable ones.
- Cotton, lint free cloth (flannel)
- Mist with water before using on almost any surface.
- Paintbrush
- Soft, clean, natural bristle.
- Use on fragile items or items with intricate design – lampshades or carved woodwork or unstable finishes where a cloth can easily snag.
- Compressed air
- Cleaning keyboards or piano keys and other hard to reach spots.
Other helpful articles on cleaning:
A clean house is good for your mental health
Making your own cleaning supplies
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Reference: Stewart, Martha. Martha Stewart’s Homekeeping Handbook, Clarkson Potter/Publishers, New York, 2006.
