While you will never be able to completely rid your home of dust. Here are 10 great tips to reduce the amount of dust and other allergy-aggravating particles from your home.
Establish a Regular Cleaning Schedule
When there are long periods of time between cleanings it makes the work much harder. Develop a routine cleaning schedule, it will help ensure that the maintenance is routine and that areas are not overlooked.
Remove Shoes
Not only does taking your shoes off at the door save the carpets, it also prevents dirt, dust, pollen, and other debris from getting tracked throughout the house. Use of mats placed inside and out of all entrances will help cut down on dust.
Dusting Techniques
When dusting your home, the goal is to capture the dust, do not use a feather duster, as they only stir up dust. When dusting objects within your home work from the top of the object down using a damp cloth, or an anti-static cloth to capture the dust.
Furniture
Vacuum upholstered furniture weekly. Most vacuum cleaners come with a hose and attachments to make this an easy task. Remove all the cushions, and vacuum them separately. Clean the back, sides and make sure to clean underneath the furniture too
Window Treatments
Dust window treatments monthly. Window treatments can hold a lot of dust which can get released into the air if they are brushed up against or touched.
Carpets
Carpets are the perfect resting spot for dust and pet dander. Vacuum all carpets at least once a week. Be sure to use high efficiency vacuum bags, low efficiency vacuum bags will allow for fine dust to re-enter the air.
Bedding
Lots of mites and dust get trapped in bedding. Bedding collects skin flakes, sheds its own fibers and releases dust every time you roll over. Wash bedding weekly in hot water & don’t forget to vacuum under your bed.
Inspect Your Dryer Vent Exhaust
Once a year inspect your dryer vent exhaust. Your dryer is responsible for exhausting moisture and lint from your clothing, and can potentially be the culprit for dust in your home. Make sure that the dryer isn’t shoved against the wall, and that the dryer exhaust line is firmly attached. Clean out your lint trap regularly & have the dryer vent cleaned when needed.
Change Filters on Heating & Air Conditioning Unit
Change the air filters every two months that the heating or air conditioning system is in use. Use good air filters with a MERV rating between 7 and 11.
Keep Your Air Ducts Clean
Overtime dirt and dust build up within the air ducts. Dirty air ducts will re-circulate dust within your home. Typically air ducts need to be cleaned every 3-5 years.