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We talk a lot about dust, but what exactly is in those millions of tiny specks? Dirt from the ground outside, pollen, insects and their body parts, flakes of dead skin cells and plenty of other virtually imperceptible substances. And we haven’t even mentioned the infamous dust mite, which sullies your home with its cast-off fecal pellets and its body parts. If that weren’t enough, it feeds off your own shed skin cells. These unappealing, tiny creatures are a major cause of allergic reactions.
Depending on your sensitivity, some dusting methods may stir too much dust into the air. Though black ostrich feather dusters may have their place, we first recommend using a vacuum with a HEPA or similar filter to capture the stuff via the dusting brush attachment.
Or, use your microfiber cloth, since its nooks and crannies provide additional surface-area for more effectiveness than cotton cloths. When safe for surfaces, a damp terrycloth or cotton cloth works just fine, an old and reliable method. Lambswool dusters work best if you use an even wiping action as you work on smooth areas. Vacuum that duster clean, or wash and allow to dry, just as you would a cloth. Newer, "high-tech" extendable wands perform well at heights or in tough-to-reach locations.
Housekeeping expert Don Aslett recommends using a treated cloth, too, with "oily or waxy compounds to attract and hold dust." These are available in aerosol or liquid. Bottom line: capture, then remove that dust. More dusting tips.
(Photo: Dust Magnified 100 Times)
