For general dusting
They also all agree that the best tool for doing that is a microfiber cloth.
The science behind why damp dusting is more efficient than a dry cloth comes from the fact that a damp cloth introduces capillary force to the dust particles. In short, the damp cloth draws the particles in and lifts dust from the area instead of moving them around.
Microfiber cloths
These cloths work well for surfaces you can easily reach like coffee tables, side tables, furniture, etc. Microfiber doesn't stir up dust and it traps it. You can dampen a microfiber cloth for dirtier surfaces, too.
Navas recommends you wipe a damp microfiber cloth over the affected surface to collect the stray particles. For a more thorough job, to cover more surface area, or to get to harder-to-reach areas, you can use the dusting tool or hose attachment on your vacuum.
All you need is vinegar, olive oil, and a touch of soap to recreate my grandmother's dust-repellant spray recipe. The coating the spray leaves helps more dust propel off surfaces and onto the floor, which means you'll have to clean those hard to dust places a little less.
Use a Dusting Cloth
These are specialised microfiber cloths made to attract and hold dust particles. They don't cause dust to fly around like dusters and they don't leave residue the way spray cleansers do.
When doing your thorough cleaning, dust the room before vacuuming so you can vacuum up the particles that float into the air as you work and settle on the floor.
One recent study shows that vacuuming rather than dust mopping reduced the need for burnishing by 60 percent. Collecting dust and soil with a vacuum also makes mopping easier because there is less dirt to remove. “When moistened, residual dust and dirt become mud,” Rathey says.
To begin, you will need to remove all the items from the top of your dresser or night table. Then set them down neatly on the floor. After you've done that, wipe down all the surfaces including the tops, sides and legs with your microfiber cloth.
Harsh cleaners and some furniture waxes and polishes can ruin the paint on wood furniture. The best option for how to clean painted wood furniture is to vacuum it regularly with a brush attachment and wipe down with vinegar diluted with water. Wipe up spills and crumbs immediately to prevent stains and stickiness.
Try mixing a weak solution of water and dishwashing soap. Dip a soft cloth in the solution, wring it out and wipe the entire piece. You want a damp cloth, not a wet one. Don't saturate the wood, and rinse your cloth often.
Cleaning couches and upholstery with vinegar
But if you're looking for a quick refresh, vinegar can tackle that mild, stale sofa smell. As always, check the label on your couch first – some upholstery is not compatible with water-based cleaning solutions (steer clear if the label has a S or X on it).
The layer of dust that settles on your furniture can be a combination of many things; tiny particles of dirt, fibers, pollen, pet dander (bits of fur and skin), and even human skin flakes.
Start by adding two cups of water into a spray bottle. Next, you'll add some vinegar, olive oil, three drops of dish soap, and 20 drops of your favorite citrus essential oil. The last step is optional, but I'd recommend it if you're looking for a fresh scent.
Polyshield Anti-Static Dusting Spray is a revolutionary dust repellent product formulated to reduce the static charge on your finished furniture surfaces, high-gloss pianos, and other household items, while providing added shine and polymer protection.
Dust accumulation in your home is a product of airflow, either because too much dirty, dust-filled air is floating around your home or because not enough air is spreading through the home, allowing dust to settle.
Books, carpet, rugs, upholstered furniture, fireplaces, and pets all contribute to the dust load. Dirt, pollen, smoke, exhaust, sand, and many other things may bring in dust from outside. In addition, mold, bacteria, and dust mites are all likely to inhabit and often proliferate in dust.
Unfortunately, keeping your windows open will not reduce the amount of dust in your home; in fact, doing this could increase it. There is a lot of dust in the air outside, which is comprised of dirt, sand, pollen, spores,'bits' of insects and a great deal more.
Clean before you mop.
Should you sweep before mopping? Mopping isn't a one-stop shop for cleaning the floors. You should always sweep, dust mop or vacuum to remove large pieces of debris and stray hair.