Why Is My House So Dusty? 4 Common Causes of Dust (2024)

Dust is a common household problem we deal with daily despite regular cleaning. Excessive dust is unsightly and can cause allergies, asthmatic attacks, and other health issues. So you probably want to know, "Why is my house so dusty?" Dust is an accumulation of pretty yucky stuff: dead skin cells, pet dander, dirt, and clothing fiber, among other things. However, the amount of dust accumulating in your home depends on various factors, including the season, how many people live in your home, the types of pets you have, and how often you clean or vacuum.

What is dust and where does it come from?

“Household dust is a complex matrix of components, including dust mite droppings, dust mite feces, bacteria, mold, pet dander, small insects, pollen, and particles. Dust mite droppings, dead bodies of dust mites, pet dander, and small insects are included as allergens,” says Ketan Patel, design manager of floorcare at Dyson.

Additionally, outside dust is a significant contributor to indoor dust. It finds its way into your home through unsealed windows and doors. Shoes, clothing, and pet paws can also bring in sand, gravel, and soil, contributing to further buildup. Dust can even contain harmful substances, such as trace metals, antibiotic-resistant germs, microplastics, and other harsh chemicals.

What are common sources of dust?

If you're wondering, "Why is my house so dusty?" You're not alone. Even with frequent cleaning, dust persistently reappears. Some of the common causes include:

High Humidity

Humidity affects the number of allergens in indoor air. High humidity levels provide the perfect environment for dust mites and mold colonies to thrive. Also, high humidity levels make dust particles stick to each other, making them much harder to remove. To keep humidity levels under control, dehumidifiers or air conditioners should be used to decrease moisture to ideal humidity levels of between 40% and 60%. Using air conditioners, rather than opening windows, can also prevent indoor pollen.

Faulty HVAC Systems

An HVAC system is the first line of defense against indoor dust. When dust enters your home, the system should suck up the particles through the vents and remove them through air filters. A faulty HVAC system with degraded filters or leaking ductwork will leave your house dustier than usual. Always ensure that your HVAC system is well-maintained and in good working condition. Replace air filters every three months or as frequently as the manufacturer recommends.

Vacuum Cleaning

Most people assume vacuuming is the easiest way to get rid of dust. However, some vacuum cleaners release excess dust and contaminants into the air, making your home feel dustier after you’ve cleaned. The best way to eliminate this problem is to invest in vacuums with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration systems or try wet vacuums, which trap dust in a water container that prevents it from going airborne.

External Factors

If you live on a busy street with traffic or near a factory or mine, you will likely experience more dust than homes without these factors. Open doors and windows can let dust creep indoors. The best solution is to seal windows and doors or other cracks and crevices that are possible dust entryways. Dust also hides in cloth and clutter. Regularly washing carpets, textiles, and stuffed animals, as well as cleaning garages and attics, can go a long way.

What can you do to reduce dust in your home?

Mary Gagliardi, Clorox's in-house scientist and cleaning expert, says, "You can make some simple changes, like removing shoes before entering your home, but it's a perfect idea to accept that a good cleaning routine is necessary to keepdustunder control and then stick to it."

First, establish a few simple house rules that can really make a difference:

• No shoes in the house
• No outside clothes on the bed
• Wash pets, clothes, coats, and stuffed animals regularly

When cleaning each room, Gagliardi says, "Start at the top of the room and work down, so anydustthat falls while you are working will be picked up by the time you are working at floor level." This includes wiping down fans and vent blades. "Removedustand grime from overhead surfaces that you may otherwise miss: the narrow top of painted picture rails, door trim, doors, the tops of painted kitchen cabinets and baseboards."

Also, vacuum upholstery and curtains regularly. Although patterns and fabrics hide it well, dust hides on sofas, chairs, throw pillows, and window treatments. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter that traps allergens. Lastly, Gagliardi advises emptying the canister or switching out the filter bag outdoors. After all that hard work, you want to avoid re-introducingdustto any areas you just cleaned.

Eliminate Allergens with These Tips

Along with getting rid of dust in your home, there are more ways to reduce allergens indoors. When choosing flooring, steer clear of wall-to-wall carpeting and only use area rugs that can be removed for cleaning. Use a top sheet on your bed and wash it every week. Keep flowers outdoors to reduce any exposure to pollen, and wash your hands when you come in from the outdoors. Keep pets groomed and bathed, especially if they shed, and don't let them sleep with you or other household members prone to allergic reactions. Make sure to clean your dehumidifier regularly to help it do the best job it can.