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Exposure to dust inside homes can have adverse health outcomes, such
as respiratory problems, asthma,
allergic reactions, and lead
poisoning (if the dust contains lead). Dust comes from two
sources. First, dirt and dust can be carried in from outside on shoes
or blown in through windows and doors. Second, there are indoor sources
of dust, particularly dust
mites.
While it is impossible to have a dust-free home, it is possible to live
in a home that minimizes dust that is carried in from the outside and
to avoid conditions that can promote allergens in dust.
Keep dust out. Because nearly two-thirds of the dust
in our homes is tracked in from outdoors, one key strategy is to build
and maintain homes that help occupants track off dust before it is carried
inside. Simple steps such as using a mat at the entryway of a home, building
steps or using grates to scrape dirt off shoes, and encouraging residents
to remove shoes inside will all make a difference.
Using effective filters
in the heating system will also reduce the allergens and contaminants
entering the building or home.
Use materials that are easy to clean. Dust is easily
removed from smooth and cleanable surfaces (smooth flooring such as wood,
tile, linoleum, and vinyl) through vacuuming and mopping.
Use a vacuum cleaner with high filtration features (high efficiency or
HEPA filter).
Carpets are generally more difficult to vacuum effectively than hard
surfaces. But among carpets, short- and closed-loop-pile carpets (such
as commercial grade carpet) are typically easier to clean than loose-pile
carpets, which allow dust and dirt to fall through to the underlying material.
Keep dust mites under control. Dust
mites contribute to dust problems, so taking
precautions against them can also help reduce exposure.
Alliance for Healthy Homes
Hotlines
- Asthma No Attacks Hotline: 1-866-NO-ATTACKS
(1-866-662-8822)
- Su Familia (Your Family): 1-866-SU FAMILIA
or 1-866-783-2645
The National
Alliance for Hispanic Health sponsors this helpline to
offer Hispanic consumers free, reliable and confidential health information
in Spanish and English and help navigate callers through the health
system.
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