How to Remove Drywall Dust Before Painting

Cutting through drywall creates a cloud of dust.

Drywall dust is light and has the tendency to float and land on everything in its path. Before cutting through drywall, it is best to remove or cover all the furniture or objects in the room. Dust that falls on the wall will be nearly invisible until the finger test reveals the white dust on your fingertip. Before a remodeling job can be completed with painting, the dust on the wall has to go.

Things You'll Need

• Microfiber mop or cloth

Instructions

1. Place a dust mask over your mouth and nose to prevent breathing in the drywall dust. Start dusting at the top of the wall and work across the wall and down toward the floor.

2. Purchase a microfiber mop or make an inexpensive version at home. Microfiber cloths can be purchased from home improvement centers in bulk. Wrap a cloth around a broom or mop and secure with a rubber band or tape. Use the mop or broom handle to reach heights that are out of reach. Remove drywall dust from the microfiber by shaking the cloth outside or attaching a clean cloth.

3. Hold the microfiber cloth in your hand and dust the parts of the wall that you can comfortably reach without the aid of a long handle. Shake the cloth outside often to remove the dust or use a clean cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Dust the walls at least twice to ensure all the drywall dust is removed.

• Microfiber cloths are washable. Read the washing directions on the package for the correct laundry procedure.

References

• Reader's Digest: 8 Smart Strategies to Make Your Home Dust Proof #4
• Swede Clean: How to Care For and Clean Microfiber