Summer Dusting Tips

Summer has just arrived, and we all know what that means – it’s time to open those windows and let the air come in. It also means more exposure to dust. Cleaning up around the house isn’t exactly the most exciting pastime, but it is an essential part of healthy living. Dirt and dust don’t just make your home look less appealing, it also infringes upon your well-being especially if you or a family member suffers from allergies. The good news is that dusting isn’t a tough chore, especially if you stay on top of it, and use the right tools and techniques; and let’s not forget how rewarding it is to look back on your handy work. So, without further ado, here are some handy dusting tips for you to do, while wearing your Cambridge Mask, of course. 

Dusting with the right tools

When it comes to dusting, use tools that will take the dust with it and not just shove it to one side. In other words, if you can, shy away from a feather duster and instead opt for a microfibre cloth. Why, might you ask? Because a microfibre cloth is super absorbent, grabbing dust, leaves no lint behind, and is streak-free. In terms of surface cleaners, you could save some bucks and mix half white vinegar with half water in a spray bottle, or you can use whichever furniture polish you prefer. If you are going to use a feather duster, make sure it’s one made with ostrich feathers. 

Dust in the right direction: down 

When it comes to cleaning, there’s always technique or method, and when it comes to dusting a room, the best place to start is at the top. Moving in a spiral, start with the highest items and work your way around the room down to the lowest, after which, proceed to vacuum. The technique here is quite simple; because dust travels downwards, applying this method will ensure that no dust lands on an already cleaned area or item. 

When it comes to electronics…

TVs, disc players (DVD’s Blu Ray etc.), PCs, printers, and stereo equipment - these are habitual dust keepers and they’re quick to gather. You should unplug any electronic equipment before cleaning. For the intricate parts and crevices, an old toothbrush or a small paint brush will do, while a gentle swipe with a microfibre cloth will do the rest. For cords and vents, get out the old hoover and vacuum those bits to prevent clogging and overheating. 

For fragile items

The display cabinet can be a bit of a challenge. Filled with trinkets, statues, crockery sets and more, this type of cleaning takes more time due to the intricate and fragile nature of the items. In the case of trinkets and other delicate items, a make-up brush or a natural-bristle paint brush that’s been lightly misted will do the job, followed by a wipe with a microfibre cloth. For larger items like porcelain statues and teas sets, a bowl of warm water with mild dishwashing liquid and a soft cloth will do just fine. 

Skirting, ceilings, door frames & walls

unchecked, these areas of the house can accumulate loads of dust. Armed with your Cambridge Mask BASIC or PRO, use a dry mop to dust these areas – the long handle will allow you to reach where your hands can’t. Alternatively, cover the bristles of a broom with a microfibre cloth, secure the cloth with some rubber bands, and attend to the aforementioned areas. 

Dare to look behind the refrigerator?

There are two places no one wants to look behind: the stove and the fridge. Heavy to move and thus not cleaned as often as the rest of the items in the house, the back of the stove and the fridge are notorious for dust, grease, crumbs and who knows what else? Cleaning these areas regularly is of great importance, not just because it will help these appliances last longer, but also because you’ll be eliminating a major source of food for insects and pests. Ideally, unplug and move the appliance completely out of the way to expose the entire area. With the aid of a refrigerator coil brush and a vacuum, you’ll be able to remove as much dust as possible from the back and underneath the appliance. The floor and walls are best cleaned with hot soapy water. 

Blinds, drapes, and curtains

These items are your house’s first line of dust defence, and if ignored, can store up a lot of dust. Try and vacuum both sides of your curtains/drapes once a week to keep a dust build-up at bay. Shaking them outside can also remove large chunks of build-up and it’s advisable to have them washed once a year. In the case, of blinds, close them completely and dust from top to bottom, using an ostrich feather duster. Do the same to the reverse side of the blinds.

Ceiling fans, light fixtures and upholstered furniture

For ceiling fan blades, slide an old pillowcase over them and then pull them back to keep and contain all the dust. Turn off the light fixtures and use a microfibre cloth to dust the exterior. For upholstered furniture, vacuum using the applicable attachments and the crevice tool for edges and corners. It’s advisable to deep clean upholstered furniture on an annual basis. 

To conclude…

There’s no escaping dust, but regular cleaning can help offset, control, and mitigate its effects. Keeping a good hand on your home carries with it a slew of benefits, including better mental health and better respiratory health. With regular dusting, you’ll give dust, allergens, germs, and bacteria few places to nest, hide, or accumulate. If you have allergies, dust can cause fever, headaches, and allergic reactions. Therefore we highly recommend you do all your cleaning and dusting while wearing a Cambridge Mask. Tested and certified to filter air pollution, viruses, and bacteria, and known to block particles as small as PM0.3, the Cambridge Mask will make the task of dusting and cleaning much less arduous.