BITES THE DUST
How do I stop dust from collecting on surfaces straight after I’ve cleaned?
Plus how to get rid of dust mites in your bedding
DUST can pose a challenge in your home, especially during the colder months.
Nevertheless, there are various methods to ensure surfaces in your property remain dust-free. Here's everything you need to know.
1
How to remove dust from surfaces?
Dusting doesn't need to be a hassle as there are plenty of cheap and simple ways to get the job done - including a special hack for cleaning dust off a ceiling fan without getting dirty yourself.
All you'll need to help is a pillowcase.
Simply place the opening of the case over the blade and cover it fully before sliding it off.
Make sure your fan is off to avoid an accident.
The dirt will cling to the inside of the case and it won't go all over the room.
Tips for dusting:
- Use the top-down approach, dusting any higher objects first and working your way down as dust will waft around.
- Use an 'S' motion instead of a circular one as the circular motion can distribute dust.
- Declutter your home regularly or keep it clutter-free.
- Using a microfiber cloth or duster is beneficial as they easily catch dirt particles.
- Vacuum your home regularly.
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Top tips from the experts:
- Use a lint roller for items that are more difficult to dust such as lampshades and curtains
- Line any tall shelving units with newspaper - this will prevent dust from building up and easy to clean up.
- Make sure you and any others take off any shoes when entering your home to avoid dust coming in.
- Make a dust repellent from a combination of oil, washing-up liquid, vinegar, water and lemon extract.
- Use a damp cloth rather than a dry cloth on your cabinets and cupboards in each room.
My mum taught me the best two-second trick… it kills bacteria & dust mites WITHOUT washing your pillows
How to stop dust from collecting on surfaces straight after I've cleaned?
The best thing to use to avoid dust collecting is a fabric softener sheet.
These sheets will stop dust from building on static electronic items such as TVs and computer screens.
The sheets will reduce static cling and wipe away any built-up dust that has gathered.
You can also use them to wipe blinds and surfaces that attract dust.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it's always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here's how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You're cleaning your carpet all wrong - here's how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- Clean your fabric or leather sofa in a few easy steps
- If you haven't cleaned your mattress in ages, here's how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over
- Did you know your Venetian, Roman, vertical, or roller blinds also need cleaning?
- Deep-clean your fridge in five simple steps
How to get rid of dust mites?
Dust mites can build up in your bedding and furniture with fabric if it isn't cleaned regularly.
To reduce them, wash your wedding once a week at least.
You can reduce this to two weeks at a push.
Another hack is to remove wall-to-wall carpeting or reduce the temperature in your home.
The hotter your house, the more dust mites you are likely to attract.
Dust mites love humidity so try and reduce them by having air flowing a fan or open a window or two.
If you need to kill them off then natural oil is your best tool.
Mix a few drops of oil with baking soda and sprinkle them over fabric surfaces infested with dust mites.
Leave it for an hour and then use a vacuum to remove it.
You can also consider purchasing a filter.
This is a high-efficiency particulate air filter that traps tiny particles including pollen, pet dander and dust mites.
It will mean you’re less likely to breathe them in.