Boost Indoor Air Quality by Tackling Dust

If you or someone in your household is sensitive to dust, you may think twice about throwing the windows open this spring. Dust gets inside, is difficult to control and it can aggravate allergies and other respiratory problems.

Dust comes from a variety of sources, including skin flakes from pets and humans, pollen, hair, insect and mineral particles, and carpet and textile fibers. About 90 percent of the dust in your home originates indoors, and the rest drifts indoors through openings or rides indoors on clothes and shoes.

The goal of most homeowners is to control dust and thereby improve indoor air quality. Here’s how.

Clean Closets and Linens

Closets are a haven for dust and every time you open the door, more dust drifts into your living spaces. Put shoes in plastic bags so they don’t collect dust, and wrap coats in garment or garbage bags to prevent shedding. Organize shelves so they are easy to dust and keep things off the floor so it’s easy to vacuum.

Linens also collect dust, from you and from dust that settles into the folds. Wash linens weekly.

Clean the Right Way

Use a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in the vacuum to inhale the smallest particles. The vacuum should have a rotating spiral agitator on the bottom to stir up dust so that it’s easier for the vacuum to draw it in. Also, turn the HVAC system to “on” so it can help clear the dust. Use a quality pleated air filter in the A/C. For dusting, use a microstatic or damp cloth to pick up dust, and a damp mop on hard floors.

You can also install a whole-house air cleaner. Installed in the HVAC system, air cleaners are your best bet for keeping dust and other pollutants under control.

Learn more about how improve indoor air quality by looking at Tempco Heating and Air Conditioning’s indoor air quality solutions, or call (847) 670-7000.