Dust is a common problem in many households, consisting of tiny particles from various sources such as hair, pollen, fabric fibres, and outdoor pollutants.  According to Allergy UK, 49% of people suffer with hay fever symptoms. Preventing dust from entering your home can significantly improve indoor air quality, reduce allergens, and create a cleaner living environment. 

The experts at Tapi Carpets & Flooring have shared detailed steps to help you keep dust at bay, including tips specifically related to flooring, a major area where dust tends to accumulate.

Indoor plants

Using indoor plants strategically to create dust barriers is an unusual yet effective way to reduce dust levels in your home. Certain plants can help trap dust particles on their leaves, thereby preventing them from settling on furniture and floors. Additionally, plants can improve indoor air quality by producing oxygen and increasing humidity, which helps dust particles settle more quickly. Choose plants with large, broad leaves, such as peace lilies, rubber plants, or ferns. These types of plants are particularly effective at trapping dust. Place plants near windows, doorways, and other areas where dust is likely to enter. This can act as a natural filter, capturing dust before it spreads throughout the home.

Regularly wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust and keep the plants healthy. Ensure the plants are well-watered and maintained to maximise their dust-trapping capabilities.

Seal entry points

One of the most effective ways to prevent dust from entering your home is to seal all potential entry points, such as doors and windows. Gaps and cracks around doors and windows are common pathways for dust particles. Installing weatherstripping around these areas can create a tight seal, preventing dust from slipping through. Additionally, attaching door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors can block dust from entering underneath. By addressing these entry points, you can significantly decrease the amount of dust that makes its way into your home.

Maintain clean spaces

Keeping your home clean plays a vital role in preventing dust accumulation. Regular cleaning routines, such as dusting with microfiber cloths or electrostatic dusters, help trap dust instead of spreading it around. Vacuuming carpets, rugs, doormats and upholstery frequently with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter can capture dust particles effectively. Doormats can also remove more than 60% of the dirt from your shoes, before you even step into your home2.

For hard floors, damp mopping is recommended to pick up dust that sweeping might miss. Additionally, reducing clutter minimises the surfaces where dust can settle. Storing items in closed cabinets or bins can further prevent dust from accumulating on exposed surfaces. 

‘No shoe’ policy 

One highly effective method to reduce dust in your home is to implement a strict “no-shoe” policy. Shoes can track in a significant amount of dust, dirt, and other outdoor contaminants, which can then spread throughout your home. By removing shoes at the entrance, you can drastically cut down on the amount of dust introduced into your living space. Place a shoe rack or storage bench near the entrance to encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes as soon as they enter. You could also provide slippers or indoor shoes for comfort and convenience.

Interior trends expert at Tapi, Johanna Constantinou, shares the importance of preventing dust in the home: “Preventing dust from entering your home requires a multifaceted approach, including sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and vacuuming your floor the correct way. By implementing these strategies, you can create a healthier and cleaner living environment. Regular maintenance and proactive measures will help keep dust at bay, ensuring that your home remains a comfortable and inviting