How to Prevent Dust Before It Forms, According to Cleaning Experts
No matter where you live, dust is a persistent problem. It seems to settle everywhere—on your television, shelves, in corners, and under furniture. But what if there was a way to proactively prevent dust from forming, rather than constantly cleaning it up afterward? Believe it or not, it’s possible. By taking a few simple preventive measures, you can minimize dust in your home. Experts suggest strategies like regularly changing your air filters, grooming your pets, and frequently washing your bedding.
What Is Dust?
Dust is a mix of particles—skin cells, dirt, pet hair, pollen, and other small debris—that accumulate over time. While it’s nearly impossible to eliminate dust entirely, there are steps you can take to significantly reduce its buildup in your home.
Keep Dust Outside
One of the main ways dust enters your home is through the outdoors. « Dust can come in through open windows and doors, cracks in the walls, and even from us humans, » explains Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. « In fact, we can be the primary source of bringing dust inside. »
Use a Doormat
A simple but effective way to prevent dust from entering your home is to place a fiber doormat both outside and inside your front door. Use it to thoroughly wipe your shoes, as they can carry dust and dirt from outside. Sokolowski also suggests asking guests to remove their shoes upon entering to limit the amount of dust brought into your home.
Keep Windows Closed
While fresh air is lovely, open windows can be a gateway for dust. Sokolowski recommends keeping ground-floor windows shut, especially if they face a road. During peak traffic hours, a lot of dust can build up from car exhaust and road debris, so it’s best to keep windows closed during these times.
Additionally, faulty windows and doors can let in dust, too. Vera Peterson, president of Molly Maid, suggests checking the seals on your windows and doors if you notice more dust than usual.
Keep Plants by Windows
If you do open your windows, placing houseplants nearby can help trap dust particles. Sokolowski recommends choosing plants with hairy or crinkly leaves, as they are more effective at catching dust than smooth-leafed varieties.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Whether you have a central heating and cooling system or window units, regularly changing your air filters is crucial for controlling dust. « It is recommended to change your air filter every three months to cut down on the amount of dust circulating in your home, » says Sokolowski. Keep an eye on the condition of your filters—if they appear clogged or dirty, it’s time to replace them. A clean filter helps prevent the spread of dust, dirt, and pollen throughout your home.
Clean Bedding Frequently
Your sheets, pillowcases, and comforters are magnets for dust, collecting dead skin, pet dander, and hair. Washing your bedding every two weeks can help prevent dust from accumulating in your room. « I shake out the comforter outside just as I would a rug, and I take the decorative pillows out to do the same, » says Melissa Poepping, founder of The Chemical Free Home. In addition to washing your bedding, air it out every few days by pulling back the covers.
