Dust can be deadly.
Commonly comprised of dirt, pollen, skin cells, insects, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria, mycotoxins, dust mites, their refuse, and other such flotsam and jetsam, the buildup of indoor and outdoor particles is not just a nasty sight.
Experts say some dust can be downright dangerous.
The amount of dust in a home is directly related to the amount of harmful particles in it. When dust is disturbed by HVAC systems or human movement, we inhale these contaminants, and the longer we’re in a space filled with them, the more intense our exposure.
Experts have linked exposure to dust contamination to a laundry list of health issues, and in some cases, the smaller the particle, the worse the effect.
Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5), or particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, is among the primary concerns.
For reference, the human eye can only detect up to 40 microns, so these dust devils are teeny tiny. Some of these particles are so small that they can perforate the lungs and enter the bloodstream, adding to the danger.
Short-term exposure to PM2.5 can cause respiratory reactions like coughing, watering eyes, asthma attacks, and chronic bronchitis. Long-term exposure is associated with reduced lung function, cardiac episodes, neurological disorders, cancer, and even death.
Those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are especially vulnerable to these effects.
Recent research has also found that dust found in many homes contains toxic elements like lead and pesticides, and per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Known as “forever chemicals” these are microscopic, man-made compounds that can’t be broken down by the body.
What can you do to prevent the dangers of dust?
Rid yourself of clutter
Step one? Rid your home of knickknacks, pile-ups, and all things unused or unwanted. There are many significant consequences that a cluttered space can have on mental health, such as impairing memory, poor eating habits, and a decrease in impulse control.
Clutter can also increase the risk of developing a mood disorder, stunt creativity, decrease productivity, diminish energy, and interfere with concentration and decision-making.
Regarding physical well-being, less stuff = fewer 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 your lungs.
Test dust
Tool kits 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 contamination source within your home that should be immediately addressed to avoid chronic health issues and threats to the structural integrity of your home.
Mind Body Green imparts, “By testing the dust before you remove it, you’ll have a clearer picture of your home’s health. If there are high levels of contamination, you can use the results as the foundation for the next steps of the process. The data collected will help you create a roadmap so you can work with a remediation team to properly remove all the sources of contamination in your home.”
If your test comes back clear, you can breathe easy, literally and metaphorically.
Keep a cleaning arsenal at the ready
A few key items can go a long way in keeping your space as clean and breathable as possible.
A microfiber cloth is more effective than a standard rag in 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 cleaner. To reach this standard, the vacuum must filter 99.7% of particles.
Because dust particles are kicked up into the air when cleaning occurs, work from top to bottom in every room ensures maximum cleanliness. As an added precaution, use an air purifier while you purge.
For best results, establish a cleaning calendar that includes daily, weekly, and monthly tidy-ups.
