We all hate a dusty home, right? Not only is it unhealthy to breathe in, it's also uncomfortable. Feel fresh in a dust-free home with some our easy steps.
Here's our comprehensive guide:
Step One: Tools
Before you begin to dust your home, it's good to know what tools to use. According to Carolyn Forte, the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, feather dusters are not the best dusters; "This tool simply spreads dust from one surface to another." A recommended tool to use when dusting surfaces is a microfiber duster or a damp soft cloth.
Professional Dusting Tools:
- Microfiber cloths: Trap dust instead of spreading it
- Damp soft cloths: Capture dust particles effectively
- Vacuum attachments: For hard-to-reach areas
- Soft-bristled brushes: For delicate surfaces
- Compressed air: For electronics and tight spaces
- Lint rollers: For upholstery and fabrics
Tools to Avoid:
- Feather dusters (spread dust around)
- Dry cloths (ineffective at trapping dust)
- Rough materials (can scratch surfaces)
- Chemical cleaners (unless necessary)
Step Two: Walls
Just because you can't see the dust on your walls and ceiling, it doesn't mean it's not there! Using your hoover attachment, hoover the dust from top to bottom. Clearing the dust in that order will reduce the mess, giving you more time to relax in your home once the job is done!
Wall Dusting Techniques:
- Start from the top and work downward
- Use vacuum attachments for high areas
- Wipe with microfiber cloths for stubborn dust
- Pay attention to corners and edges
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans first
How Often: Dusting your walls should be done once every 6 months, or at least when your spring-cleaning date comes around.
Step Three: Skirting Boards
Have you ever looked down at your skirting board, shocked with the amount of dust found there? Don't worry; it's easy to remove! You can tackle the dust using a cloth sprinkled with an all-purpose cleaning solution or with water. Impress your guests the next time they're over, with your dust-free home! Everyone loves to have a secret peek to determine how hygienic someone's home is, do you agree?
Skirting Board Cleaning:
- Use a damp microfiber cloth
- Apply gentle pressure to remove stubborn dust
- Work in small sections for thorough cleaning
- Use a soft brush for textured surfaces
- Dry with a clean cloth to prevent streaks
How Often: Give your skirting board a wipe down whilst on your weekly clean, it only takes seconds to do!
Step Four: Curio Cabinets
Now for the tricky part, luckily for you, we have some tips and tricks to clear dust in small and narrow spaces. To remove the dust trapped inside the carvings of your cabinet, use a clean bristle paintbrush or one of the makeup brushes that you don't use. Once you've cleared the dust, use a microfiber cloth to clean the cabinet.
Delicate Surface Dusting:
- Use soft-bristled brushes for intricate details
- Work gently to avoid damaging surfaces
- Use compressed air for tight spaces
- Follow up with microfiber cloths
- Clean display items before returning them
How Often: As the gaps are so small, it takes longer for the dust to find it's way there, it's recommended to clean your curio cabinet once or twice a month.
Step Five: Electronics
Dusting electronics is pretty self-explanatory, right? It is, dust is commonly found on electronics, so much that it's frustrating, do you agree? No one touches a TV anymore, what else is a remote for? Yet, it still gets dirty! When dusting your equipment, always unplug them first. Gently wipe off the dust with a microfiber cloth until clean and remember to hoover the dust found by the cords around your electronics, as it can clog your machines.
Electronic Device Care:
- Always unplug devices before cleaning
- Use microfiber cloths for screens
- Clean vents and air intakes regularly
- Use compressed air for keyboards
- Organize cables to reduce dust accumulation
How Often: Since electronics gets pretty dusty very quick, it's good to dust your devices once a week or once every fortnight.
Additional Professional Dusting Tips:
Furniture Dusting:
- Start with the highest surfaces first
- Use appropriate cleaners for different materials
- Don't forget to dust underneath furniture
- Clean cushions and upholstery regularly
- Use furniture polish sparingly
Light Fixtures:
- Turn off power before cleaning
- Remove glass shades for thorough cleaning
- Use a ladder for high fixtures
- Clean bulbs and replace if necessary
- Dust ceiling fans regularly
Books and Decorative Items:
- Remove items from shelves before dusting
- Use a soft brush for book spines
- Clean decorative items individually
- Organize items to reduce dust accumulation
- Consider glass doors for bookcases
Air Quality Improvement:
- Use air purifiers to reduce dust
- Change HVAC filters regularly
- Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons
- Use doormats to reduce tracked-in dust
- Vacuum regularly to prevent dust buildup
Seasonal Dusting:
- Spring: Deep clean all surfaces
- Summer: Focus on high-traffic areas
- Fall: Prepare for winter with thorough cleaning
- Winter: Maintain regular dusting schedule
Allergy Prevention:
- Use HEPA filters in vacuums
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Keep pets groomed regularly
- Use dust mite covers on mattresses
- Maintain humidity levels between 30-50%
Professional Techniques:
- Work in a systematic pattern
- Use the right tool for each surface
- Don't rush the process
- Clean from top to bottom
- Finish with a final inspection
If you require further housekeeping help or enquiries regarding our services, don't hesitate to contact St Anne's HouseKeeping on:
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 3670 9997
We will be happy to answer any questions you may have!