Dust can be deadly.
Usually composed of dirt, pollen, skin cells, insects, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria, mycotoxins, dust mites, their waste, and other such flotsam and jetsam, the accumulation of indoor and outdoor particles. the exterior is not just a bad look.
Experts say some dusts can be downright dangerous.
The amount of dust in a house is directly related to the amount of harmful particles in it. When dust is disturbed by HVAC systems or human movement, we inhale these pollutants, and the longer we are in a space filled with them, the more intense our exposure.
Experts have linked exposure to dust pollution to a laundry list of health problems, and in some cases, the smaller the particle, the worse the effect.
Fine particles (PM2.5), or particles smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, are among the main concerns.
For reference, the human eye can only detect up to 40 microns, so these dust devils are very small. Some of these particles are so small that they can pierce the lungs and enter the bloodstream, adding to the risk.
Short-term exposure to PM2.5 can cause respiratory reactions such as coughing, watery eyes, asthma attacks and chronic bronchitis. Long-term exposure is associated with reduced lung function, heart attacks, neurological disorders, cancer and even death.
Those with pre-existing heart or lung disease are particularly vulnerable to these effects.
Recent research has also revealed that the dust found in many homes contains toxic elements such as lead and pesticides, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Known as “forever chemicals” these are microscopic, man-made compounds that cannot be broken down by the body.
What can you do to prevent dust hazards?
Get away from the clutter
The first step? Rid your home of clutter, clutter, and all unused or unwanted items. There are many important consequences that a cluttered space can have on mental health, such as impaired memory, poor eating habits and decreased impulse control.
Clutter can also increase the risk of developing a mood disorder, inhibit creativity, decrease productivity, reduce energy, and interfere with concentration and decision-making.
In terms of physical well-being, less stuff = less places for dust to settle. And the fewer items you have, the easier it will be to thoroughly clean and eliminate dust, preventing it from entering the lungs.
Test powder
Toolkits like the Dust Test can help determine if there are high levels of contaminants within your dust. If the test comes back with high levels of mold spores, bacteria, or mycotoxins, it indicates a source of contamination within your home that needs to be addressed immediately to avoid chronic health problems and threats to your home’s structural integrity.
Mind Body Green states: “By testing the dust before you remove it, you’ll get a clearer picture of your home’s health. If there are high levels of contamination, you can use the results as a basis for further steps in the process. The data collected will help you create a roadmap so you can work with a remediation team to properly remove all sources of contamination in your home.”
If your test comes back clear, you can breathe easy, literally and metaphorically.
Keep a cleaning arsenal ready
A few key elements can go a long way to keeping your space as clean and breathable as possible.
A microfiber cloth is more effective than a standard cloth at picking up and wiping away microscopic particles. Botanical cleaning products pull double duty, removing dirt and not adding harmful chemicals to the air. Thymol, derived from thyme, is an active ingredient with serious antibacterial properties.
Additionally, indoor plants can help reduce dust in your home.
Experts also recommend investing in a HEPA vacuum. To achieve this standard, the vacuum must filter 99.7% of particles.
Because dust particles are thrown into the air when cleaning is done, working from top to bottom in each room ensures maximum cleanliness. As an extra precaution, use an air purifier while cleaning.
For best results, create a cleaning calendar that includes daily, weekly, and monthly adjustments.
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