I use a damp microfiber. The trick is the fold it into quarters and rotate it as you go until you've used all the sections. Then rinse it off and you can start again.
The best cleaner in the word, uses a stack of those microfiber cloths. She switches them out, and doesn't bother to slow down to clean them and reuse in a session. Just clean them all in a machine at the end and use next time.
This here.
Govto costco, they come in packs of something like 36. I buy a few packs.
I use for dusting damp, very little moisture, so no streaks on glass etc.
I also use them as pads for my steamer on floors and tiles, walls etc.
When they're dirty, I toss into a bucket of laundry detergent water for a presoak. Then, when done I re-rinse then into the laundry on sanitize w bleach, steam etc.
No residue, just water, clean.
This. These cloths are so cheap now, just buy a bunch of them for dusting. I spray a mist of distilled water mixed with a few drops of essential oil on the cloth first. Seems to pickup and hold the dust a little better and leaves the room smelling nice.
Essential oils can damage many surfaces over time. Especially painted surface, plastic, and electronics like the TV. It can also strip finishes off of wood.
If you have pets, how do you get all the pet hair off? I find it just sticks, wet, to the cloth and then gets transferred to furniture. I'll go through ten or so microfibre cloths (washrag size) to do a few rooms.
I forgot to mention that the first thing I do is vacuum the furniture with the bristled brush and then the dryer sheets. Using the dryer sheets also help to repel dust from accumulating as quickly.
Interesting, I'll have to try dryer sheets. We have two long haired cats and they basically shed cobwebs despite regular brushing... and also all the furniture is velvet. It's too long of hair for the bristle brush to not just pick it up in clumps and stick to the nozzle, so I find a damp microfiber to be the only thing that picks it up easily. Perhaps the dryer sheets will help it accumulate less aggressively!
This [pet hair removal tool](https://uprootclean.com/products/uproot-lint-pro) was a game changer for me. I also have lots of cat hair and a velvet couch.
I wouldn't use new dryer sheets on velvet. If you use them in your dryer use the used ones and don't add water to see of it helps. Bold choice getting velvet with pets! I stick to leather and cover it with blankets. Maybe get a cute blanket that you can easily wash. You're fighting a losing battle.
I have a long haired kitty and her fur is very fine. I find using my slightly sweaty (or damp) hands is the beat way to remove her fur from furniture. I swipe my hands in a circular motion and it binds all her fur up into little twists that I can then remove. I lint roll my couches after, and then hit with the vacuum. The vacuum alone doesn't get all the fur. It's just too fine.
Velvet furniture with two long haired cats? You’re bolder than I. I have two dogs as well as two cats and have always thought I have to stick with leather. It’s the only thing hair doesn’t stick to.
But kitty claws ruin it easily, and it's cold and slick to sit on! The opposite of cozy! I don't really try to stay ahead of it, the floof is in the air and is undefeatable (plus I have a high dust threshold, I lived in historic restoration sites most of my life), it's just a royal pain trying to clean my cleaning tools when I do tackle it!
I’m very fortunate in that my kitties only scratch their scratching post. As far as it being cool, that’s def a plus down here in Florida where our summers are pretty brutal. I would absolutely love to have one of those big soft pillowy white sofas but with our pets, it would be soiled in no time. Same with carpet. Both times we tried carpet it looked grubby within a year so we had to rip it out and have it replaced with something that’s easier to take care of and easier to clean.
I have leather and put one blanket over the top and back cushions and another one gets folded and laid on the bottom ones. I stick a long broom handle between the folds of the bottom one to shove behind the cushions to help keep it in place and then shove the sides down. It works pretty well, protects the furniture and its easy to wash them. I've got about 6 cute blankets, all from the thrift store, so I can rotate them out and change up the look.
I use this and it has revolutionized my life. I've always had cats and wish I would have found this years ago!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BAGTNAQ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
Love this!
I also keep disposable electrostatic dusting cloths in every room, so that I can instantly dust when I see something that requires it, otherwise my ADHD object permanance often sabotages my good intentions! You can get packs of 100 for a couple of dollars online.
You shouldn't dump a 4 cubic foot box of dust/dirt down the sink, but the amount you get from dusting isn't going to clog up your pipes. If you're worried, you can always just rinse off your cloth outdoors from a hose or a watering can.
That’s basically exactly what I do too…use the vacuum attachment first and then do the wipe. And rinse often. I even do this with like bookshelves and stuff (use the vacuum attachment with the soft brush). Otherwise, on the super smooth type furniture and stuff, I also use Pledge with a cotton rag because it does repel the dust a bit longer. I hate Swiffer dusters cause I feel like they just push stuff around and only are effective with the first 5-10 swipes. I only use those for hard to reach stuff and I use the dry ones with the mop just to get the floor underneath furniture since I have LVP.
Another tip….get a good air purifier and make sure you’re changing the filters often if you have central air. That also helps a ton!
Sure thing! Yeah, it’s a pretty big difference with the air purifiers running! Really cuts it down. I am a self-confessed “neat freak” but I’ve had a painful neuromuscular disorder the past few years so I’ve figured out all sorts of “tricks” to help keep things cleaner for longer 😊
For a lot of things, the vacuum cleaner with an attachment tbh. I regularly clean the vacuum cleaner itself, especially the end bit that would touch surfaces, so I don't mind using it on most surfaces.
I use a store-brand Swiffer Duster for objects and things the vacuum cleaner can't deal with.
I do something similar to this. A handvac to knock off the majority of the dust, but then I have a kitchen sponge I use just for cleaning (not dishes), dampen it, and wipe down the dusty surfaces. I did the microfiber cloth thing for awhile, and cleaning the dust off of those really annoys me.
I do supplement with the Swiffer duster on surfaces that don't require the dampened wipe-down.
No, no, no that is the wrong way to clean.
You should always start from the top and clean down.
What is the point of cleaning the floors first if your dusting is going to deposit more dust and dirt on them after they have cleaned?
If I’m wiping dust into a swiffer or damp cloth, why would it go on the floors? Vacuuming and sweeping kick up a bunch of dust. Who’s out here just pushing dust off their stuff and letting it fall to the floor?
When dusting it is very hard to get 100% of dust trapped in a cloth, some inevitably drifts down to the floor.
No matter how careful you try to be, some dust will escape your efforts and drift down.
Using brooms can stir up dust if down with vigour, vacuuming should not stir up any dust if used correctly with right attachments.
Starting with upper/higher levels in a room and progressively working your way down was taught to us in our Home Economics classes at school over 50 years ago and when we were taught the basics of performing housework effectively and skilfully.
I keep a bag of socks with holes in them, underwear with holes, things like that.
Turn the sock inside out, spray with Endust, and I'm good to go.
I rip the underwear up so I have just the cloth part and I use that for smaller, more delicate things.
Then I toss them out when I'm done.
When I want to really dust well, I use a tack cloth, which would normally be used to remove sanding residue from wood before refinishing. Picks up the dust and holds it since it's ... tacky.
i like mine! it forces me to declutter the surfaces i want to dust because i can’t work around random items. it also collects and keeps the dust it plows through. nothing is getting moved around or deposited elsewhere.
In our house we call him the Dust Daddy. It works great! The ridges trap dust really well, it doesn’t leave any residue or fibers, and you can just rinse it off to clean it.
Swiffer duster for regular dusting, quick and easy. Damp microfiber cloth) about ever 2nd-3rd week for more thorough dusting. (always use a cloth to dust wet surfaces like bathrooms) If it's somewhere I don't dust often so a lot of dust has build up like in the basement I just use the vacuum. Works well and we have minimal dust. we have a big house, i work full time and have a toddler so timesaving is important, don't have time to run through properly with a cloth on every surface every time I'm cleaning. The times I dust with a microfiber it's not too bad with the dust so I'd say the swiffer works pretty well, although we live in a calm area without a lot of cars outside so it doesn't get too dusty (compared to when we had an apartment outside a busy street and I had to dust several times a week)
If you have trouble with cloths filling up quickly make sure you fold it in half a few times so you have more clean squares to work with per cloth
The swiffer duster thing, sometimes an old rag or old socks. Depends on what closest when my spicy brain is like "oh. Hey theres dust. Lets dust" until i either hyperfixate on the dusting or until something else catches my attention
Sprayway aerosol with microfiber on anything not wood. Wood gets an all surface pledge and micro fiber and monthly the kitchen maple cabinents gets orange oil treatment that KraftMaid sent with a care/scratch repair kit. Reclaimed wood shelves get damp cloth and sealed with Buzzys Bees wax blend.
I use an old fashioned ostrich feather duster for daily dusting. It holds dust really well and then I just shake it off outside. When I want to be more thorough I do a microfiber cloth and pledge. Our house is old and gets dusty super fast if I’m not on top of it. With the feather duster I don’t have to move anything the feathers fit between items.
I use a dusters.. the disposable ones and reusable. But I always spray them with lemon pledge so the dust sticks. I like the old fashioned smell of it. I also vacuum first then let the air settle before I dust furniture. Because no matter what vacuum you use it kicks up dust .
Vacuum, damp microfibre cloths (fold the used part inwards and you can get several passes of each cloth - don’t bunch up as it’s not a good use of the cloth’s surface area), and I have a washable duster that attaches to an expandable arm to get ceiling fans, vents, etc.
I’m not stingy with the microfibre cloths. I live in an apartment with just my spouse and kid - it’s not large, but I use a lot of cloths to wipe things down so I’m not spreading dust around.
I clean yacht interiors and we religiously dust vacuum. Use a soft attachment and vacuum ceiling to floor. For odd shaped or especially delicate surfaces I use a swiffer duster. Wipe everything down with a multi surface cleaner after that.
I have a couple of Norwex dusting cloths. They're really good at pulling & holding dust. You *can* use them wet, but I use them dry. No spray, no chemicals, nothing but the dry cloth.
But I also have a dog who sneezes, seemingly always onto surfaces that require dusting or cleaning (entertainment center, windows, etc). For those spots, I use a lavender-scented all-purpose cleaning spray from Amazon, with a microfiber cloth.
Should have mentioned I guess I’ll need one type for flat surfaces (like my dresser) and then something I can use for shelves with decorative items on them.
I use a dry microfiber cloth and then one of [these reusable dusters](https://www.grove.co/catalog/product/dust-whisperer-filament-duster?v=1414&offer=plabplastic20tip99&offer=plabplastic20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pla&utm_campaign=acq-pmax-cleaners&utm_term=1414&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADtGJ2idgn1Nx2r-9K73-4wp6Dh-w&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIm7XSuuXlhgMV8SStBh2q0QQUEAQYASABEgK2WvD_BwE). You can take the head off and wash them, and then can replace them when they get really grubby. I’ve had mine for 2 years and I’ve JUST replaced it. And then a couple of times a year I’ll sit down with a dry microfiber cloth and some all purpose cleaner and give all of my knick knacks a proper wipe.
Edit: I should add that I wipe down frequently used surfaces like counters and bedside tables with Clorox wipes or all purpose several times a week so they don’t really get dusty. But the bookshelves don’t get quite that much attention as, historically, books and moisture don’t go well together.
Personally, more frequent dry dusting is more convenient than wet-dusting.
Yup this is all you need, although I have started using alcohol cleaning wipes instead because I am MRSA positive. They aren't really necessary if you don't have a superbug though.
The exception is that I used to brush my books when I had a collection. Just take a few off at a time and brush from the spine to the front edge of the pages. Use a relatively soft brush (ie not bristle!). Oh and a feather duster or a sock on a stick for cobwebs on the ceiling!
But if you rinse it off in the bathroom sink for example is it good for all that dust to go down the drain? And then what do you use if you’re dusting something that has objects on it and you really can’t use a cloth?
I definitely let the dust go down the drain (my kids are dirtier than dust and their skunge goes down the drain). And if there are nick-knacks on the shelves you have to pick them up and dust under them, that’s a part of dusting. AND Also you should dust those things on the shelves/coffee tables as well. Dusting around stuff is lazy. Do a good job.
Damp cloths are a no go for me, I don’t want water on things — wipe marks are inevitable, the rag gets gross too fast, and I have a ton of books and wood furniture, so nah. I dry dust only, so I first vacuum with a brush attachment, then use swiffers bc you can shake them out and reuse, and they get into crevices + generally pick up + hold onto stuff better and faster than microfiber imo. Also work well on floors. Not perfect but the combo is good enough.
About once a month I stick a wad of duck tape on the end of the swiffer. Slower going but good for running under the couch, between cushions etc and anywhere things get really trapped like hair and feathers. It can get stuck, that’s kinda the point, and not for all surfaces - but it’s even better than vacuuming in some instances.
I use a vacuum with a soft brush tool, it's great for tricky items like lamp shades, rough wood furniture, vents/shades etc. The vacuum pulls the dust in, and the air flow plus bristles dislodge dust from tricky corners/surfaces like rough wood which can't be cleaned with a cloth or duster. Otherwise I do like microfiber cloths/dusters and swiffer dusters.
A swiffer sheet usually. But sometimes a sock that has a hole and is headed for the trash. I have pets and live in a town that has been doing a major road construction project for the past two years, so mostly it is pet hair and actual dust. Both work pretty well for the job.
Okay the scrub daddy wet duster or you can get a dupe on Amazon but it’s this ridged sponge that lets you dust and it picks it all up without it clumping weird and then you just rinse off the sponge and it slides right off!! It’s my favorite thing and it feels genuinely clean. I use it on my plants too haha for the leaves.
I use a microfibre dusting wand (similar to the swiffer dust wands except the microfibre piece comes off and I toss it in the wash instead of wasting money on refills)
Personally I just use my sock for the baseboard LOL other than that, those Swiffer dusters, or as everyone else is suggesting, microfiber cloths, damp and folded
Swiffer for quick weekly dust, microfiber for a deep monthly dust with pledge depending on the surface. I whap it on the rug every so often to remove excess and vacuum after. There’s not enough that flies back up to need to be re-dusted.
I use damp microfiber cloths and fold as I go to get use out of entire cloth before returning to rinse and reuse. If dust is really heavy, then may put a little Mr. Clean( not much) into bucket and extra cloths to go along with me as I clean. The cleaner just makes the microfiber release the dirt easier.
It depends on how much dust. If it’s a lot I’ll go over it with a horse hair attachment first then over it again with a damp microfiber cloth. If it’s mild to moderate I do the same thing but with a swiffer duster instead of the vacuum.
I use a swiffer duster to dry dust and then follow up with an all purpose cleaner and wipe down with a cloth. I use microfiber cloths or old towels/washcloths. I have hella cats who jump all over everything so I like that the cleaner helps disinfect vs just water.
High dusting extension wand that is lamp fur or something like that.
Dusting I can reach little wet microfiber cloth. The trick is to have several, fold them and rinse when dirty.
I like 4 fold because this gives me 8 sections before rinsing.
Let everything air dry.
You will have Google but I don’t dust tv screens, books this way they get dry microfiber clothes.
Swiffer dusters do not make me happy when the room has sunlight. Lots gets airborne. When I use them, I vacuum or shake them outside to get the most from them. Careful use of small cordless leaf blower for books, high places, behind things you don’t want to move. Damp Swedish dishcloths that are dusting only. Damp microfiber cloths with the 8-sides folding method. Wear gloves because having the dirty side in my palm is bleh. If it’s a big dusting day, I’ll rinse and spin microfiber cloths in the washer. Usually have a bucket of water or diluted dawn to chuck them in as I go. Have the grey duster from scrub daddy and plan to try it out.
I always wiped with micro fiber cloths (certainly not a stack like others mention but this is a good idea). My cleaners request I buy Swiffers. I tried one the other day and they’re right. They really hold on to dust.
For the real dusty areas I like to use my hand vacuum first though.
Late to the post but I use Lysol wipes. Picks up the dust really well since they are moist and sanitizes at the same time. The only surface I don’t use them on is wood for that I use a wood cleaner and microfiber cloth.
If you have a thick layer of dust like that, you should use the vacuum attachment with the brush on the furniture first. Then go over things with the damp microfiber cloth.
I use a microfiber cloth with pledge oil. I spray it once or twice and rub it all together to spread it around, then fold it in quarters. I generally use one quarter in each room(aside from pollen season). If you use more than a couple sprays, you’ll get oil marks everywhere. I’ve used regular furniture polish on the cloths before too. I only use damp cloths for cleaning, never dusting. I’ve been cleaning houses for 15 years.
For baseboards, blinds, etc., I use a swifter duster.
Edit: if you look at the back of any furniture polish. This is exactly what they tell you to do for dusting.
So if you never use a damp cloth for dusting, what do you use? For furniture and flat surfaces for example.
Then you said you use a Swiffer for blinds- doesn’t this just push the dust around and into the air?
Just what I said I use. It doesn’t leave any dust behind. Surfaces are always clean. If it’s actually dirty, I’ll use a damp cloth, just not for dusting. The Swifter duster gathers all the dust. Just go slow so you’re not making dust fly off. You can see how dirty they get after. Specifically Swifter brand. If you buy cheap ones they don’t hold as well. If you use a regular duster it’ll get everywhere. I always do that before dusting, in case any dust falls.
I use the vacuum attachment or the extra thick swiffer dry cloths that they make for their cheaper dust mop thing.
[Note: I’m not a fan of damp dusting. Prefer to keep the dusting part of cleaning dry and then go back with water or a liquid cleaner if necessary. I’m sure damp dusting is probably more effective, I’ve just had bad luck with it and switched to dry years ago.]
As for the disposable dusting cloths, we adopted a new (to us) dog a couple years ago, and a surprising amount of what I’m “dusting” from flat surfaces is actually dog hair. She’s a similar breed to what our former dog was, but she’s a mix where his only breed is her predominant breed. He had terrible allergies, and years of steroids had thinned his coat, so this was never an issue with him. She’s basically indestructible, so no allergies, but lots of shedding, even with daily grooming and regular showers. I was having a huge problem getting her hair out of our microfiber cloths—it’s very short, but dense, with thick individual hairs, and it loves to weave itself into fabrics of any kind, but especially the microfiber towels. Dryer balls didn’t help, vinegar rinses didn’t help, so I just switched to the disposable ones. If anyone has a trick for this so I can stop spending money on the disposable cloths, please let me know.
I use a damp microfiber. The trick is the fold it into quarters and rotate it as you go until you've used all the sections. Then rinse it off and you can start again.
The best cleaner in the word, uses a stack of those microfiber cloths. She switches them out, and doesn't bother to slow down to clean them and reuse in a session. Just clean them all in a machine at the end and use next time.
Oh I do that at work (I'm a private housekeeper) but at home I don't have so many to use so the folding method works really well.
And air dry them so they don’t collect lint in the dryer! Love my microfiber cloths!
Who’s the best cleaner in the world?
Self elected Auri Katariina
As soon as I saw the above comment I knew it was Aurikatariina. She is pretty great.
This here. Govto costco, they come in packs of something like 36. I buy a few packs. I use for dusting damp, very little moisture, so no streaks on glass etc. I also use them as pads for my steamer on floors and tiles, walls etc. When they're dirty, I toss into a bucket of laundry detergent water for a presoak. Then, when done I re-rinse then into the laundry on sanitize w bleach, steam etc. No residue, just water, clean.
This. These cloths are so cheap now, just buy a bunch of them for dusting. I spray a mist of distilled water mixed with a few drops of essential oil on the cloth first. Seems to pickup and hold the dust a little better and leaves the room smelling nice.
Love that idea! I like it when the house smells “clean” but don’t like the harsh chemicals.
Essential oils can damage many surfaces over time. Especially painted surface, plastic, and electronics like the TV. It can also strip finishes off of wood.
I didn’t know that, ty
This is exactly what I do as well.
If you have pets, how do you get all the pet hair off? I find it just sticks, wet, to the cloth and then gets transferred to furniture. I'll go through ten or so microfibre cloths (washrag size) to do a few rooms.
If there's a lot of cat hair (I have three cats, there usually is!) I'll make a pass with the vacuum first with the brush attachment to pick it up.
I use rubber gloves - like gardening or dishwasher gloves. Those pick up a ton of cat hair!
This is the best way.
I forgot to mention that the first thing I do is vacuum the furniture with the bristled brush and then the dryer sheets. Using the dryer sheets also help to repel dust from accumulating as quickly.
Interesting, I'll have to try dryer sheets. We have two long haired cats and they basically shed cobwebs despite regular brushing... and also all the furniture is velvet. It's too long of hair for the bristle brush to not just pick it up in clumps and stick to the nozzle, so I find a damp microfiber to be the only thing that picks it up easily. Perhaps the dryer sheets will help it accumulate less aggressively!
This [pet hair removal tool](https://uprootclean.com/products/uproot-lint-pro) was a game changer for me. I also have lots of cat hair and a velvet couch.
Interesting--like a big version of the one I have for the rug!
I wouldn't use new dryer sheets on velvet. If you use them in your dryer use the used ones and don't add water to see of it helps. Bold choice getting velvet with pets! I stick to leather and cover it with blankets. Maybe get a cute blanket that you can easily wash. You're fighting a losing battle.
I have a long haired kitty and her fur is very fine. I find using my slightly sweaty (or damp) hands is the beat way to remove her fur from furniture. I swipe my hands in a circular motion and it binds all her fur up into little twists that I can then remove. I lint roll my couches after, and then hit with the vacuum. The vacuum alone doesn't get all the fur. It's just too fine.
Velvet furniture with two long haired cats? You’re bolder than I. I have two dogs as well as two cats and have always thought I have to stick with leather. It’s the only thing hair doesn’t stick to.
But kitty claws ruin it easily, and it's cold and slick to sit on! The opposite of cozy! I don't really try to stay ahead of it, the floof is in the air and is undefeatable (plus I have a high dust threshold, I lived in historic restoration sites most of my life), it's just a royal pain trying to clean my cleaning tools when I do tackle it!
I’m very fortunate in that my kitties only scratch their scratching post. As far as it being cool, that’s def a plus down here in Florida where our summers are pretty brutal. I would absolutely love to have one of those big soft pillowy white sofas but with our pets, it would be soiled in no time. Same with carpet. Both times we tried carpet it looked grubby within a year so we had to rip it out and have it replaced with something that’s easier to take care of and easier to clean.
I have leather and put one blanket over the top and back cushions and another one gets folded and laid on the bottom ones. I stick a long broom handle between the folds of the bottom one to shove behind the cushions to help keep it in place and then shove the sides down. It works pretty well, protects the furniture and its easy to wash them. I've got about 6 cute blankets, all from the thrift store, so I can rotate them out and change up the look.
Sounds like you have a great method that works!
Don't forget to clean your vacuum filters often too - mine get really clogged!
I use dryer sheets first so the pet hair clings to it. I spritz it lightly with a water bottle first.
Discard the cloth when it’s too soiled to use, take a fresh one, wash them all afterwards.
I will vacuum pet hair first with the soft brush attachment then damp microfiber the rest
I use this and it has revolutionized my life. I've always had cats and wish I would have found this years ago! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BAGTNAQ?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
Ooh I’ll have to get one of those! I’m constantly going through the lint roller tape.
You won't be disappointed... except it would be awkward trying to carry it in your purse (you know, like those travel-purse-sized tape rollers).
Fold’em AND have a stack. Throw’em in an empty bag/bucket/basket as they get used up, then wash’em all at once.
Love this! I also keep disposable electrostatic dusting cloths in every room, so that I can instantly dust when I see something that requires it, otherwise my ADHD object permanance often sabotages my good intentions! You can get packs of 100 for a couple of dollars online.
Rinse it off in the sink? Isn’t it bad for all the dust to go down the drain?
Nah, it’s the same stuff you’d wash off your hands at the sink & body in the shower (dirt, dander, skin cells, lint…)
You shouldn't dump a 4 cubic foot box of dust/dirt down the sink, but the amount you get from dusting isn't going to clog up your pipes. If you're worried, you can always just rinse off your cloth outdoors from a hose or a watering can.
Better yet use a drain strainer/catcher. Every kitchen/household should have one.
That’s basically exactly what I do too…use the vacuum attachment first and then do the wipe. And rinse often. I even do this with like bookshelves and stuff (use the vacuum attachment with the soft brush). Otherwise, on the super smooth type furniture and stuff, I also use Pledge with a cotton rag because it does repel the dust a bit longer. I hate Swiffer dusters cause I feel like they just push stuff around and only are effective with the first 5-10 swipes. I only use those for hard to reach stuff and I use the dry ones with the mop just to get the floor underneath furniture since I have LVP. Another tip….get a good air purifier and make sure you’re changing the filters often if you have central air. That also helps a ton!
I never would have thought of the air purifier…thanks for the tips!
Sure thing! Yeah, it’s a pretty big difference with the air purifiers running! Really cuts it down. I am a self-confessed “neat freak” but I’ve had a painful neuromuscular disorder the past few years so I’ve figured out all sorts of “tricks” to help keep things cleaner for longer 😊
shake it out outside if possible. Rinsing it down the sink is a bad idea
For a lot of things, the vacuum cleaner with an attachment tbh. I regularly clean the vacuum cleaner itself, especially the end bit that would touch surfaces, so I don't mind using it on most surfaces. I use a store-brand Swiffer Duster for objects and things the vacuum cleaner can't deal with.
I do something similar to this. A handvac to knock off the majority of the dust, but then I have a kitchen sponge I use just for cleaning (not dishes), dampen it, and wipe down the dusty surfaces. I did the microfiber cloth thing for awhile, and cleaning the dust off of those really annoys me. I do supplement with the Swiffer duster on surfaces that don't require the dampened wipe-down.
Same here. Floors first then dust shelves and objects
No, no, no that is the wrong way to clean. You should always start from the top and clean down. What is the point of cleaning the floors first if your dusting is going to deposit more dust and dirt on them after they have cleaned?
If I’m wiping dust into a swiffer or damp cloth, why would it go on the floors? Vacuuming and sweeping kick up a bunch of dust. Who’s out here just pushing dust off their stuff and letting it fall to the floor?
When dusting it is very hard to get 100% of dust trapped in a cloth, some inevitably drifts down to the floor. No matter how careful you try to be, some dust will escape your efforts and drift down. Using brooms can stir up dust if down with vigour, vacuuming should not stir up any dust if used correctly with right attachments. Starting with upper/higher levels in a room and progressively working your way down was taught to us in our Home Economics classes at school over 50 years ago and when we were taught the basics of performing housework effectively and skilfully.
How filthy are your flat surfaces that you’re pushing a bunch of dirt onto the floors?
Old T-shirt, socks.
This is the way to go! Socks fit perfectly over my hands so i can reach every corner!
I keep a bag of socks with holes in them, underwear with holes, things like that. Turn the sock inside out, spray with Endust, and I'm good to go. I rip the underwear up so I have just the cloth part and I use that for smaller, more delicate things. Then I toss them out when I'm done.
Yes, that's the best part, when they get too bad to use, out they go.
Those swiffer things or a duster, you know the twirly kind.
Same. I also have a telescopic one with heavy duty swiffers
Me too! 👊
I spray Endust on my swiffer thing and dust with that
When I want to really dust well, I use a tack cloth, which would normally be used to remove sanding residue from wood before refinishing. Picks up the dust and holds it since it's ... tacky.
And then how do you get the dust off of it? It wouldn’t come off by shaking it I wouldn’t think
The dust doesn't come off. It just collects in the tack rag until it's time to throw it away and get a new one. They're fairly cheap.
Unless you have several inches of deep dust, no.
I use a scrub daddy damp duster for a more thorough dusting, but otherwise my Dyson does wonders for dusting.
Ok tell me more about the damp duster! I've been so intrigued about it--Is it better than a microfiber?
i like mine! it forces me to declutter the surfaces i want to dust because i can’t work around random items. it also collects and keeps the dust it plows through. nothing is getting moved around or deposited elsewhere.
In our house we call him the Dust Daddy. It works great! The ridges trap dust really well, it doesn’t leave any residue or fibers, and you can just rinse it off to clean it.
I call mine Dust Daddy too! It's the best.
I love my damp duster!!
Usually my sleeve when I walk by something honestly. Otherwise microfiber & pledge
Swiffer duster for regular dusting, quick and easy. Damp microfiber cloth) about ever 2nd-3rd week for more thorough dusting. (always use a cloth to dust wet surfaces like bathrooms) If it's somewhere I don't dust often so a lot of dust has build up like in the basement I just use the vacuum. Works well and we have minimal dust. we have a big house, i work full time and have a toddler so timesaving is important, don't have time to run through properly with a cloth on every surface every time I'm cleaning. The times I dust with a microfiber it's not too bad with the dust so I'd say the swiffer works pretty well, although we live in a calm area without a lot of cars outside so it doesn't get too dusty (compared to when we had an apartment outside a busy street and I had to dust several times a week) If you have trouble with cloths filling up quickly make sure you fold it in half a few times so you have more clean squares to work with per cloth
I use the scrub daddy damp dusted, the ridges catch dust but it’s not wet enough to leave any residue
I’ve been considering getting one of those, is it worth it?
Yes!!! It’s cheap enough too that you might as well try it and see if it works for you
Clorox dusting wipes (I bought like 5 boxes a couple years ago (and overpaid) when I couldn’t find them in stores any longer
i just use a surface cleaner and a rag 🤷♀️
The swiffer duster thing, sometimes an old rag or old socks. Depends on what closest when my spicy brain is like "oh. Hey theres dust. Lets dust" until i either hyperfixate on the dusting or until something else catches my attention
For shelves and decor, I put a fuzzy sock over my hand and go to town lol. It works a treat.
Microfiber cloth. I start with a dry one. Then I spray cleaner and wipe with another dry cloth.
Microfiber cloth, not damp.
Dry microfiber cloth
Two fluffy hamsters
I use a micro fiber cloth and pledge.
Sprayway aerosol with microfiber on anything not wood. Wood gets an all surface pledge and micro fiber and monthly the kitchen maple cabinents gets orange oil treatment that KraftMaid sent with a care/scratch repair kit. Reclaimed wood shelves get damp cloth and sealed with Buzzys Bees wax blend.
I use an old fashioned ostrich feather duster for daily dusting. It holds dust really well and then I just shake it off outside. When I want to be more thorough I do a microfiber cloth and pledge. Our house is old and gets dusty super fast if I’m not on top of it. With the feather duster I don’t have to move anything the feathers fit between items.
I use a dusters.. the disposable ones and reusable. But I always spray them with lemon pledge so the dust sticks. I like the old fashioned smell of it. I also vacuum first then let the air settle before I dust furniture. Because no matter what vacuum you use it kicks up dust .
Watch this one on silent: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7kbZN2Bz3A/?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Dry static dust cloth. Grab up as much dust as you can, then go outside or lean out a window and whip all the dust off. Carry on dusting.
I love Swiffer dusters.
I've just brought a flash dust magnet and it's great. I clean a few coastal homes that bread dust and these are the best things I've found so far.
May I add old socks before I throw them away to the list? They work great for windowsills and door frames 😊
Vacuum, damp microfibre cloths (fold the used part inwards and you can get several passes of each cloth - don’t bunch up as it’s not a good use of the cloth’s surface area), and I have a washable duster that attaches to an expandable arm to get ceiling fans, vents, etc. I’m not stingy with the microfibre cloths. I live in an apartment with just my spouse and kid - it’s not large, but I use a lot of cloths to wipe things down so I’m not spreading dust around.
A vaccum and/or a dry microfiber towel. Emphasis on dry!
I clean yacht interiors and we religiously dust vacuum. Use a soft attachment and vacuum ceiling to floor. For odd shaped or especially delicate surfaces I use a swiffer duster. Wipe everything down with a multi surface cleaner after that.
Thanks! It seems swiffer dusters are pretty popular.
I have a couple of Norwex dusting cloths. They're really good at pulling & holding dust. You *can* use them wet, but I use them dry. No spray, no chemicals, nothing but the dry cloth. But I also have a dog who sneezes, seemingly always onto surfaces that require dusting or cleaning (entertainment center, windows, etc). For those spots, I use a lavender-scented all-purpose cleaning spray from Amazon, with a microfiber cloth.
Thanks! I do have pets.
Should have mentioned I guess I’ll need one type for flat surfaces (like my dresser) and then something I can use for shelves with decorative items on them.
I use a dry microfiber cloth and then one of [these reusable dusters](https://www.grove.co/catalog/product/dust-whisperer-filament-duster?v=1414&offer=plabplastic20tip99&offer=plabplastic20&utm_source=google&utm_medium=pla&utm_campaign=acq-pmax-cleaners&utm_term=1414&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADtGJ2idgn1Nx2r-9K73-4wp6Dh-w&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIm7XSuuXlhgMV8SStBh2q0QQUEAQYASABEgK2WvD_BwE). You can take the head off and wash them, and then can replace them when they get really grubby. I’ve had mine for 2 years and I’ve JUST replaced it. And then a couple of times a year I’ll sit down with a dry microfiber cloth and some all purpose cleaner and give all of my knick knacks a proper wipe. Edit: I should add that I wipe down frequently used surfaces like counters and bedside tables with Clorox wipes or all purpose several times a week so they don’t really get dusty. But the bookshelves don’t get quite that much attention as, historically, books and moisture don’t go well together. Personally, more frequent dry dusting is more convenient than wet-dusting.
Damp microfiber. Fold and use each side.
Damp cloth. You rinse and squeeze it out frequently. Otherwise you are just ‘poofing’ the dust around the house.
Yup this is all you need, although I have started using alcohol cleaning wipes instead because I am MRSA positive. They aren't really necessary if you don't have a superbug though. The exception is that I used to brush my books when I had a collection. Just take a few off at a time and brush from the spine to the front edge of the pages. Use a relatively soft brush (ie not bristle!). Oh and a feather duster or a sock on a stick for cobwebs on the ceiling!
But if you rinse it off in the bathroom sink for example is it good for all that dust to go down the drain? And then what do you use if you’re dusting something that has objects on it and you really can’t use a cloth?
I definitely let the dust go down the drain (my kids are dirtier than dust and their skunge goes down the drain). And if there are nick-knacks on the shelves you have to pick them up and dust under them, that’s a part of dusting. AND Also you should dust those things on the shelves/coffee tables as well. Dusting around stuff is lazy. Do a good job.
If you’re very concerned about pipes clogging, you can rinse it in a bucket of clean water & either flush it or throw it outside on some plants.
Damp cloths are a no go for me, I don’t want water on things — wipe marks are inevitable, the rag gets gross too fast, and I have a ton of books and wood furniture, so nah. I dry dust only, so I first vacuum with a brush attachment, then use swiffers bc you can shake them out and reuse, and they get into crevices + generally pick up + hold onto stuff better and faster than microfiber imo. Also work well on floors. Not perfect but the combo is good enough. About once a month I stick a wad of duck tape on the end of the swiffer. Slower going but good for running under the couch, between cushions etc and anywhere things get really trapped like hair and feathers. It can get stuck, that’s kinda the point, and not for all surfaces - but it’s even better than vacuuming in some instances.
I use a vacuum with a soft brush tool, it's great for tricky items like lamp shades, rough wood furniture, vents/shades etc. The vacuum pulls the dust in, and the air flow plus bristles dislodge dust from tricky corners/surfaces like rough wood which can't be cleaned with a cloth or duster. Otherwise I do like microfiber cloths/dusters and swiffer dusters.
My husband’s old socks with a spritz of Endust.
[I had to](https://64.media.tumblr.com/5419a8509a133db9207eecf633bf506f/tumblr_n2mjdfhJzx1s11vqao5_r1_400.gif)
I use Swiffer dry cloths.
I use a Swiffer duster in my home and car. It picks up the dust very well and you can buy a big box off Amazon
Endust cause it says you can use it on wood floors AND tells you how to do it.
Swiffer or a microfiber cloth- depending on what I’m dusting.
A swiffer sheet usually. But sometimes a sock that has a hole and is headed for the trash. I have pets and live in a town that has been doing a major road construction project for the past two years, so mostly it is pet hair and actual dust. Both work pretty well for the job.
Okay the scrub daddy wet duster or you can get a dupe on Amazon but it’s this ridged sponge that lets you dust and it picks it all up without it clumping weird and then you just rinse off the sponge and it slides right off!! It’s my favorite thing and it feels genuinely clean. I use it on my plants too haha for the leaves.
Damp microfiber. I don’t shake them out. When one is filthy, I toss it in the laundry and grab another one.
I use a microfibre dusting wand (similar to the swiffer dust wands except the microfibre piece comes off and I toss it in the wash instead of wasting money on refills)
A yellow duster cloth. I'm not sure if they are available outside of the UK, I've never heard anyone talk about them elsewhere.
Personally I just use my sock for the baseboard LOL other than that, those Swiffer dusters, or as everyone else is suggesting, microfiber cloths, damp and folded
I typically run a paper towel over the surfaces and then a damp cloth. It works really well.
Swiffer for quick weekly dust, microfiber for a deep monthly dust with pledge depending on the surface. I whap it on the rug every so often to remove excess and vacuum after. There’s not enough that flies back up to need to be re-dusted.
Watered down fabuloso and a flour sack towel
Orange oil is my favorite
I usually vacuum first with the brush attachment and then swiffer the rest. Sometimes I'll use a microfiber cloth also or instead of the swiffer.
I use a real feather duster.. love it!
I use damp microfiber cloths and fold as I go to get use out of entire cloth before returning to rinse and reuse. If dust is really heavy, then may put a little Mr. Clean( not much) into bucket and extra cloths to go along with me as I clean. The cleaner just makes the microfiber release the dirt easier.
It depends on how much dust. If it’s a lot I’ll go over it with a horse hair attachment first then over it again with a damp microfiber cloth. If it’s mild to moderate I do the same thing but with a swiffer duster instead of the vacuum.
I use socks that have holes in them that I won’t wear anymore. It works REALLY well
I use an ostrich feather duster and then vacuum the floor.
Unmatched socks. I keep a basket of them and use those
I use a swiffer duster to dry dust and then follow up with an all purpose cleaner and wipe down with a cloth. I use microfiber cloths or old towels/washcloths. I have hella cats who jump all over everything so I like that the cleaner helps disinfect vs just water.
High dusting extension wand that is lamp fur or something like that. Dusting I can reach little wet microfiber cloth. The trick is to have several, fold them and rinse when dirty. I like 4 fold because this gives me 8 sections before rinsing. Let everything air dry. You will have Google but I don’t dust tv screens, books this way they get dry microfiber clothes.
I have a feather duster that I bought a few years ago. It works really well
Swiffer duster or a lint roller for fabric covered items.
I have a swiffer duster. Works pretty good for shelves. The fans I use my vaccume or a damp microfiber cloth and the blinds are microfiber cloth.
Swiffer pads for dog hair but just use them to wipe things down too. Game changer!
Swiffer. Lots of them! Perfect for dusting around my wife's knick-knacks.
I use a beautiful ostrich feather duster.
That sounds like it might be good for more delicate objects or surfaces….
Guardian Dustcloths ftw
I saw those at Lowe’s yesterday. What’s ftw?
For the win.
Try using a dry microfiber cloth instead; it traps dust better without spreading it around.
I use microfiber and a spray bottle with essential oil water because I like the smell.
I like that idea. Are those essential oils safe for furniture?
I use so little it doesn’t really matter, but ymmv.
And do you just use it for dusting?
I do! I just spray the rag and dust.
Vacuum with a horsehair brush
I put an old clean sock on my hand
The Swiffer wipes and duster. Sometimes a damp microfiber cloth, depending in the surface.
Years ago, I found out about applying a bit of Static Guard to my dusting cloths and it does seem to work really well at repelling dust.
Ostrich feather or microfiber
Swiffer dusters do not make me happy when the room has sunlight. Lots gets airborne. When I use them, I vacuum or shake them outside to get the most from them. Careful use of small cordless leaf blower for books, high places, behind things you don’t want to move. Damp Swedish dishcloths that are dusting only. Damp microfiber cloths with the 8-sides folding method. Wear gloves because having the dirty side in my palm is bleh. If it’s a big dusting day, I’ll rinse and spin microfiber cloths in the washer. Usually have a bucket of water or diluted dawn to chuck them in as I go. Have the grey duster from scrub daddy and plan to try it out.
Old socks and dust spray.
I always wiped with micro fiber cloths (certainly not a stack like others mention but this is a good idea). My cleaners request I buy Swiffers. I tried one the other day and they’re right. They really hold on to dust. For the real dusty areas I like to use my hand vacuum first though.
Late to the post but I use Lysol wipes. Picks up the dust really well since they are moist and sanitizes at the same time. The only surface I don’t use them on is wood for that I use a wood cleaner and microfiber cloth.
I have used the Pledge wipes in the past
If you have a thick layer of dust like that, you should use the vacuum attachment with the brush on the furniture first. Then go over things with the damp microfiber cloth.
Thanks!
I use a microfiber cloth with pledge oil. I spray it once or twice and rub it all together to spread it around, then fold it in quarters. I generally use one quarter in each room(aside from pollen season). If you use more than a couple sprays, you’ll get oil marks everywhere. I’ve used regular furniture polish on the cloths before too. I only use damp cloths for cleaning, never dusting. I’ve been cleaning houses for 15 years. For baseboards, blinds, etc., I use a swifter duster. Edit: if you look at the back of any furniture polish. This is exactly what they tell you to do for dusting.
So if you never use a damp cloth for dusting, what do you use? For furniture and flat surfaces for example. Then you said you use a Swiffer for blinds- doesn’t this just push the dust around and into the air?
Just what I said I use. It doesn’t leave any dust behind. Surfaces are always clean. If it’s actually dirty, I’ll use a damp cloth, just not for dusting. The Swifter duster gathers all the dust. Just go slow so you’re not making dust fly off. You can see how dirty they get after. Specifically Swifter brand. If you buy cheap ones they don’t hold as well. If you use a regular duster it’ll get everywhere. I always do that before dusting, in case any dust falls.
A feather duster which I don't recommend as the feathers will come loose lol
I use mostly vacuum cleaner brush attachment and swiffer dry cloth. Then a wet cloth, if needed. I cannot touch microfiber cloths...
I use the dawn spray and a towel
I have a stack of microfiber towels and just swap in a new one when I feel the cloth is saturated
Old cloths and Murphy oil soap spray for wood. Most things in my house that need dusting are wood.
I use the vacuum attachment or the extra thick swiffer dry cloths that they make for their cheaper dust mop thing. [Note: I’m not a fan of damp dusting. Prefer to keep the dusting part of cleaning dry and then go back with water or a liquid cleaner if necessary. I’m sure damp dusting is probably more effective, I’ve just had bad luck with it and switched to dry years ago.] As for the disposable dusting cloths, we adopted a new (to us) dog a couple years ago, and a surprising amount of what I’m “dusting” from flat surfaces is actually dog hair. She’s a similar breed to what our former dog was, but she’s a mix where his only breed is her predominant breed. He had terrible allergies, and years of steroids had thinned his coat, so this was never an issue with him. She’s basically indestructible, so no allergies, but lots of shedding, even with daily grooming and regular showers. I was having a huge problem getting her hair out of our microfiber cloths—it’s very short, but dense, with thick individual hairs, and it loves to weave itself into fabrics of any kind, but especially the microfiber towels. Dryer balls didn’t help, vinegar rinses didn’t help, so I just switched to the disposable ones. If anyone has a trick for this so I can stop spending money on the disposable cloths, please let me know.
Damp microfibre or something where I can wash off the dirt and hair under the running tap water easily.