Keeping your home lovely and dust-free

As a cleaner’s enemy goes, dust is always close to topping the list. As soon as you’ve got rid of some, more seems to come along and settle. It seems an endless chore, dusting. While you’ll never be able to vanquish dust for good, there are things you can do to clean it efficiently, and minimize its presence in your house in the first place. Get ready to bust some dust!

Arm yourself properly

If you’re going to get serious about tackling dust, you’ll need the right equipment. Microfiber cloths work wonders by ‘grabbing’ onto the dust, and they’re kind to your furniture too (no scratching like certain other types of duster). Both disposable and washable microfiber cloths are a good option. Extendable lambswool dusters, meanwhile, will help you get into those tricky nooks and crannies, such as behind picture frames, and on the tops of cupboards. They won’t leave feathers everywhere, either. Wet wipes pick up dust a treat, and leave rooms smelling fresh. Remember, whenever you’re dusting, a good percentage of it falls to the floor, so always follow up with a thorough vacuum.

Pet problems

If you’ve got a household pet such as a cat or dog, they’re going to be a big dust and hair culprit. While you can’t ban them from the entire house, it’s an idea to make certain areas out of bounds (for example, the best sofa, or kitchen table). Creating their own little corner, with a basket and toys should help restrict their movement around the house. Brush and bathe your pet on a regular basis, and remember to change the bedding in their basket too. You’ll soon notice the difference!

Watch the windows, guard the doors

You might think that opening the window helps to let out dust, but it’s actually more likely to welcome it in. Of course, a little fresh air circulating around the house every now and again is a must, but beware of letting in a host of insects and plant life (later to become dust) by doing this too often. You should also consider buying some durable door mats, and position them at every entrance. Encouraging yourself, family and visitors to wipe their feet on the way in, will stop a lot of dust entering the house.

Take it to the next level

If you’re determined to tackle dust in your home, and willing to spend a bit of cash upfront on it, there are preventative measures you can take. The first is to get slipcovers for your sofa and other upholstery. That way, you can regularly remove them to shake down and wash. These come with the added benefit of allowing you to tackle any stains, without having to call in a special cleaner. Air purifiers help clear dust as it falls, and can work out as a sound investment in the long run.