Dust is a common problem in homes, and it can often leave you feeling as though you’re constantly trying to fight against it. Wiping down every surface and running a cloth over your ornaments and picture frames can feel like a never-ending task as you try to get rid of the dust, only for it to come back again a few days later.
Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do to get rid of dust forever. Dust is a mixture of tiny particles from various sources, including dead skin cells, hair, pet dander, pollen, clothing and furniture fibres, and other environmental pollutants. This means your home gets dusty just from you living in it.
But there is something you can do to make sure your home stays “dust-free” for longer than it currently does.
According to a professional cleaner, there’s a DIY spray you can make that will help clean surfaces like window sills and shelving. It also repels dust, so you don’t have to clean the same surfaces again the following week.
In a video shared on TikTok by Glam Home Cleaning, the expert suggested mixing five common ingredients into a spray bottle – and you probably already have the things you need in your kitchen cupboards.
To make the mixture, you will need:
- 2 cups of water
- 1/4 cup of white vinegar
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
- 3 drops of washing up liquid
- 3 drops of citrus essential oil
Put the ingredients into a spray bottle and shake well to mix them. The expert recommends spraying the mixture onto a microfibre cloth before wiping down dusty surfaces.
They said this should “completely remove and repel dust” and that you should do this “once a month” to keep your home “dust-free” for good.
Commenters on the post were thankful for the cleaner’s advice. Many said they have to dust their homes “every week” currently, so they would welcome a spray that means they only have to do it once a month.
One person said: “The dust at my home gathers every damn week. If this changed it to monthly, then I’d be happy because I don’t have time to clean that much every week.”
Another added: “I am definitely trying this! Thanks for the tips!”
How to maintain a dust-free home
1. Regular Cleaning Routine
- Dust surfaces weekly: Use a damp microfiber cloth, which traps dust instead of spreading it.
- Vacuum floors and carpets: Do this at least once or twice a week. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for best results.
- Mop hard floors: After vacuuming, mop floors to pick up any remaining dust particles.
2. Control Dust Sources
- Remove shoes at the door: This prevents dirt and dust from being tracked inside.
- Use doormats: Place them at all entrances and clean them regularly.
- Declutter: Fewer items mean fewer surfaces for dust to settle on.
3. Banish Dust Collectors
- Wash bedding weekly: Dust mites thrive in bedding.
- Clean curtains and blinds: Wash or vacuum them regularly.
- Limit fabric upholstery and heavy drapes: These collect more dust than leather or vinyl furniture and blinds.
4. Address Pet Hair and Dander
- Groom pets regularly: Brush them outside if possible.
- Wash pet bedding often: This reduces dander and fur buildup.
5. Clean High and Hidden Areas
- Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents: These are often overlooked but collect a lot of dust.
- Move and clean under furniture: Dust accumulates under sofas, beds, and large appliances.