Home Improvement

Sources of Dust in Your Home and Indoor Air Quality Solutions 

 

Dust is often associated with homes that have been abandoned for a long time. But it’s actually quite common even in occupied and well-maintained homes. If you live in a high-floor apartment in the city, a row of houses in the village, or even a remote area, you’ll have to deal with dust collecting in nooks and crannies in your house. 

Whether or not you have a dust allergy, having this in your home can be quite stressful and harmful to your health. And it could sometimes feel like a never-ending battle, even if you clean your house daily. 

What are the common sources of dust in a home?

Dust sources are many and varied. They could seemingly appear from nowhere, but almost anything tangible comes from something or somewhere. And it’s usually a hodgepodge of different things. So it’s important to know the common sources of dust, so you know which spots to clean more or which items to remove entirely. 

Environmental 

A 2010 study by Paloma Beamer of the University of Arizona showed that 60 percent of household dust comes from outside sources. It enters the house via windows, doors, vents, and most significantly, the soles of your shoes. 

The rest of the 40 percent would depend on other factors like the homeowner’s location and their cooking, cleaning, and smoking habits. Other factors include the age of the house and the number of occupants. 

Depending on these factors, dust particles are typically composed of the following:

  • Pollen, particulate matter, and soil
  • Pet dander
  • Dead skin 
  • Dust mites
  • Insect droppings
  • Food debris
  • Trace amounts of lead, arsenic, and DDT

Fibrous materials 

While fibrous materials don’t necessarily produce dust, they are the main culprits behind dust collecting in the home. So if you have fabric sofas, wool rugs, rattan baskets, nylon drapes, and wicker chairs, it’s important to have them deep-cleaned regularly. 

If you live in an area where pollution is high, it would be best to minimize fibers and fabrics in your home. They may be pretty and comfy, but they can be a pain to clean and maintain. Plus, they’re most likely the source of your persistent sneezing. 

Dark and dingy places

Dust settles in places where the air is stale, like vents, cupboards, and the space under your bed or sofa. These spots are the least likely to get cleaned, as well. So be sure to go over these areas whenever possible. Dust also collects in the tops of doors, windows, electronics, and light fixtures, as well as baseboards and bookshelves. 

Solutions for a Dust-free Home 

There are many steps you can take to ensure a dust-free home, including the following:

Build a mudroom 

Since most dust particles come from external sources, it’s essential to have a mudroom or any space, however small, where you can leave your shoes before entering the house. Mudrooms can also be used to hang coats and hats that have been exposed to particulate matter. 

Vacuum daily 

Having a vacuum is a must, and so is using it at least once a day. When vacuuming, make sure you cover the areas where dust collects, including your carpets and rugs and the spaces under furniture. It’s also important to have your vacuum filters replaced and cleaned. And if it starts to wear, be sure to hire vacuum repair services as soon as possible. 

Replace your HEPA filters regularly 

If you’re using air vents and air purifiers to help clean the air, it’s essential to replace your HEPA filters at least once every two months to make sure they perform optimally. Keep in mind that these filters trap dust, pollen, mold, and other particles that shouldn’t be allowed to settle. 

Declutter your home 

Almost any item in your home can collect dust, so the more clutter you have in your house, the bigger your dust problem will be. Consider storing items you don’t usually use and invest in smart storage options. Keep your chargers and small electronic devices in compartments or drawers. It’s also advisable to deep-clean your home a few times a year to get rid of dust buildup in nooks and crannies. The same goes for your sofas, mattresses, drapes, and pillows. 

Invest in a good air purifier 

It’s a proven fact that an air purifier is an essential tool for every home. Air purifiers help eliminate all sorts of allergens and pollutants that are harmful to your respiratory health. These include unpleasant odors, chemicals, pollen, dust, pet dander, radon, and even airborne diseases and harmful VOCs. 

Having dust in your home can be a nuisance, especially if you have allergies and respiratory conditions. Follow these steps to enjoy a dust-free home.