Minimize household dust.
Healthy HouseTM CleanAir Tip
Dust is quite common in most environments. Many people might consider dust a nuisance and wonder why their house is so dusty. Dust gets stirred up from just walking across the room, sitting down on a chair, or ruffling the covers in bed. Once the dust is suspended in the air, it can enter the body through inhalation. Not only can dust cause allergic reactions, but can also contribute to advanced health conditions.
Dust can be composed of almost anything and everything. Some examples include skin cells, dust mite excrement, fabric fibers, fireplace soot, mold spores, and accumulated chemicals like pesticides or flame retardants.
Dust can also be a source of mold growth. Mold just needs cellulose and moisture to thrive. Dust can be perfect host for mold to grow on.
Here are a few tips for minimizing household dust:
- Use a HEPA air purifier.
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
- Choose solid-surface flooring. Carpets and rugs tend to retain more dust and release fibers.
- Wipe dust from surfaces with a damp cloth or an electrostatic cleaning cloth.
- Change bedding frequently.
- Take fabric furnishing like drapes and couch cushions outside and bat them periodically to release dust.