How to dust your home properly

Dusting is so much more than just using a feather duster. Actually, using a feather duster is one of the worst things you can do. While it seems to remove the dust instantly, in actuality, you're flinging the dust around where it will resettle; but not after you inhale most of it! If you're going to dust your home, do it right. Here's how:

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A rag
• Cleaner
• Patience

1. Open your windows. Vacuum your home thoroughly, and be sure that the vacuum bag is not full to begin with. If the bag is already full, it will expel dust particles around while you're vacuuming. Be sure to get your rugs and hard floors. If you have area rugs, take them outside and beat the dust out of them. What comes out of them may shock you.

2. Dampen your dust rag with a furniture safe cleaner (or plain water) to help ensure that the dust particles that are captured on the rag stay on the rag, and are not re-deposited throughout the home. There are many household cleaners that you may choose to use. Remember, the key is to capture the dust and remove it, as opposed to spreading it around. The type of cleaning product that you use won't have a huge effect on your dusting.

3. Dust behind large items, such as televisions and wall hangings, appliances and furniture. Dust all surfaces, moving items to clean underneath them. Window ledges are a huge source of hidden dust.

4. Clean out your air ducts, and change your air filters. You'd be surprised at how much dust and debris collects in these traps!

5. Breathe easier in your nearly dust free home!

Tips & Warnings

• Change your dust rag frequently during cleaning.
• Be sure to either dispose of your dust rag, or put it in the washer when finished with it.
• You may choose to use a dust mask during this task if you are highly allergic to dust.

Resources

• Dusting Tips

[Merriment]

on 4/15/2009 Great suggestions to dust your home properly. A damp dust cloth does make a better impact than a dry one does!