31 May 2025
Dust is sneaky.
It’s actually made up of so many different things… dead skin cells, pet dander, insect droppings, pollen, lint, even soil particles. It clings to surfaces yet also floats through the air - making your home feel more like a haunted house than a cosy retreat.
But fear not.
We've got the best way to dust down to a science, and it’s actually easier than you may think to dust properly.
So let’s banish dust like a pro, step by step. Here are the best ways to dust your home properly, from windowsills to bookshelves.
1. choose the right duster.
Not all dusters are created equal. The best way to dust starts with the right tools. Here are the materials you’ll need to dust properly:
electrostatic dusters.
These are great for trapping dust without spreading it around and usually come with extendable handles for those hard-to-reach spots.
N.B. look for microfibre washable versions rather than the less sustainable disposable ones. Microfibre is an electrostatic fabric that will grab and hold the dust until you wash it. They’re really versatile and long-lasting. Just be sure to wash them in a laundry bag designed to catch the plastic fibres they shed (eg The Guppy Bag).
feather and wool dusters.
These aren’t the answer if you’re trying to follow a vegan lifestyle but if you prefer natural fibres rather than plastic microfibre - lambswool is the go-to.
old cotton t-shirts.
Don’t throw out your old tees… give them a sustainable send off by cutting them up into soft, scratch-free dusters and keep them OUT of landfill. Cotton will need a dusting spray or dampening with water to trap dust effectively.
Luckily smol multi purpose spray is a great option here because you can use it on so many surfaces, including glass and mirrors.
N.B. Avoid paper towels (unless you want lint and scratches)? Simpler to skip these for dusting.
2. dusting diary.
Consistency is key.
It’s best to dust every room at least once a week to keep the buildup at bay. Break it down room by room over the week so it’s manageable, and don’t forget those sneaky vertical surfaces like mirrors and the tops of picture frames.
3. vacuum up heavy dust.
For those times you’ve let dusting slide, start with a vacuum and use its upholstery brush on the end of the hose. This will handle the bulk of the dust without dirtying your dusters. Then you can follow up with a cloth to capture any remaining particles.
4. no spreading.
Turn off fans, close windows and always dust from top to bottom. Gravity is your friend here, ensuring dust falls onto areas you’ve yet to clean, not on those you’ve just dusted.
5. upholstery lowdown.
Your vacuum is your best friend if it’s got a hose and upholstery brush. If not - don’t panic. A pair of rubber gloves can do the trick. Pop them on and rub across the fabric surface - they’ll attract dust and pet hair, making them an easy alternative to the vacuum.
6. electronics.
Dust can be the downfall of your electronics. Use a microfibre cloth and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Avoid using water or sprays, which can damage sensitive components.
7. dust off!
Dusting doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools, a solid routine and a few clever tricks, you can keep your home dust-free and looking its best. Say goodbye to haunted house vibes and hello to a cleaner, fresher space!