Just like in many other parts of the country, homes in the Bradenton, Florida, area are subject to the ever-present dust. Much as you may try to eliminate it, you can never get rid of it completely. Though you’ll face a constant battle, it’s important to make the effort to keep household dust under control, as this tiny troublemaker is probably more hazardous than you realize.
What Dust Is Made Of
Few people think about what dust really is. There are several things that combine to make this fine layer of film on your home’s surfaces. Each person in your home sheds about 1/3 ounce of dead skin weekly, which contributes to the dust in your home. Dust also comprises pollen, textile and paper fibers, hair, soil minerals, and more. Atmospheric dust contributes to this as well. About 5 billion tons of it travel through the atmosphere in a year.
Your Dust Is Alive
In addition to the nonliving components of dust, your home also harbors mites. These tiny creatures feed on dead skin and absorb moisture directly from the air. They’re most commonly live in carpets, beds, and upholstered furniture. Though you can’t see them, they can cause allergic reactions. Control dust mites and improve indoor air quality by using a HEPA filter in your vacuum, changing the filter in your HVAC system monthly, and changing your sheets regularly.
Dust Makes You Sick
Household dust can make you sick, particularly if it’s allowed to accumulate unchecked. Many people are allergic to mites. Symptoms of this allergy include nose and eye inflammation, cough, runny nose, facial pressure, and sneezing. If you have asthma, the dust can make it difficult for you to breathe and cause chest pain and tightness. Even without an allergy, breathing it can irritate the throat and lungs.
Keep dust under control in your home with smart indoor air quality solutions such as clean ductwork and air cleaners. To learn more about minimizing dust and allergens, contact Climatic at (941) 758-3080.
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