Dust mites, especially their feces, are one of the most common causes of asthma and allergy symptoms. Dust mites reside in many locations in our homes, especially in mattresses, carpeting and upholstered furniture. Often asthma and allergy sufferers can help control symptoms by limiting exposure to dust mite feces and body parts. One way to do this is to dust and vacuum frequently. Dusting also helps to remove other asthma and allergy triggers from your home, such as pet dander, pollen and other allergens. The trick is to choose methods and products that remove existing triggers without causing asthma and allergy symptoms during the process.

Select the Right Tools

One of the best and simplest ways to remove dust from your home is with a damp cloth. It is able to capture much of the dust, rather than simply brush it from the surface you are cleaning into the air you breathe. However, when dusting with a damp cloth — or any other dusting tool — it is a good idea for asthmatics and those with allergies to wear a filtration mask to keep asthma and allergy triggers from entering your airways.

 

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Another useful tool is an electrostatic duster. After use, some electrostatic dusters insert into a special tube attached to a vacuum unit that removes accumulated dust from the duster head — which leaves less chance of the dust returning to the air you breathe. However, it is likely when using electrostatic, dry dusters that some dust will fly into the air, possibly causing asthma or allergy symptoms.

My preferred method of dusting is with a vacuum cleaner. When I dust my ceiling fans with a vacuum, some of the dust does end up floating in the air. But this technique remains much faster and more convenient for me than other methods. A good vacuum usually captures most of the dust before it gets into the air and into your lungs. However, if you or your family is especially sensitive to dust, a vacuum may not be the best option. Use a damp cloth instead.

Know Where Triggers Lurk

Asthma and allergy sufferers should dust in the obvious places, such as exposed surfaces of furniture. However, you should also be sure to dust surfaces that are not seen, including the sides and backs of your tables and cabinets. Fans are common places for dust and allergens to gather and need to be cleaned as well.

Blown acoustic or "popcorn" style ceilings can harbor dust and allergens as well. Use a vacuum and suck the dirt and cob webs from the surface,* or use an electrostatic or feather duster to carefully pull the cob webs from the ceiling. Cleaning with any method involving scrubbing would make a mess and possibly harm the texture. I would recommend carefully using a vacuum with dusting attachment, with adjustable suction set on low. My grandmother dusted ceilings with a broom. While this is effective at removing dust, it does make for dirty air and can lead to allergy and asthma attacks. Whatever the method you choose for cleaning ceilings, I recommend using a filtration mask.

Dust baseboards (including those behind furnishings) and inside your cabinets. Asthma and allergy triggers reside under your refrigerator, too, in the form of mold and mildew. If possible you should move your refrigerator and clean both under and behind it.

Look for dust on electronics such as your computer and TV. You want to dust electronics carefully. Don't use water, and never spray cleaners onto electronic components. It is best not only to turn electronics off during dusting, but to unplug them as well. There are several commercially available wipes and sprays for dusting electronics. However, simply using a cloth dampened with denatured alcohol works great. Denatured alcohol evaporates quickly, so there is less chance of the liquid seeping into your electronics and causing problems. Test first and avoid use on surfaces affected by alcohol.

Asthma and allergy sufferers should also dust inside their vehicles frequently. Dust can accumulate and become airborne inside vehicles just as it can inside homes.

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in both the United States and around the world. Allergies are commonplace as well. If you suffer from either, look at all available methods for treating your condition. You will probably find that cleaning thoroughly and frequently will make your life better by reducing symptoms of asthma and allergies.

* Note: Older popcorn ceilings should be tested for asbestos content before they are disturbed. Only risk knocking off "popcorn" pieces if your ceiling is asbestos-free.

 

About Shane McGlaun, Respiratory Therapist

Shane McGlaun has been a practicing Respiratory Therapist for 11 years. His diverse experience — including acute care, home care and rehab — enables a multifaceted approach to respiratory problems.

Shane’s mission is helping people suffering from asthma and allergies to live better, healthier lives by avoiding their asthma and allergy triggers. He writes frequently about cleaning products and equipment that can help asthmatics and people with allergies.