For those with allergies or asthma, keeping dust under control is essential to overall health. It is also a good idea for those without any health problems and a buildup of dust can cause cold-like symptoms if breathed in too much. Additionally, too much dust attracts other nuisances such as dust mites, which live in dust and can spread to other parts of your home. A dust spray can help prevent dust from flying around in the air as you clean, making cleanup much more effective and sanitary. Dust mites do not simply live in the layer of dust across the uppermost shelf in your home. They also live in bedding, couches, carpet, stuffed toys and old clothing, and are similar in appearance to spiders or ticks--although they cannot be seen by the naked eye. There are two types of dust mites, American and European house dust mites. As you may know, much of what we see as dust is actually dead skin that we people shed on a regular basis. Dust mites feed off of dead skin and other organic materials in dust. You may have dust mites and not know it--only people who are allergic will react to dust mites. Dust mites also shed their skin, and people who are allergic react to this dead skin and dust mite feces. Reactions can range from a runny nose to a severe asthma attack. Dust mites can be difficult to get rid of, and they prefer humid environments, so avoid using humidifiers if you have a dust mite problem. For people with sever reactions, measures that are more drastic may be required, such as encasing bedding in plastic covers and removing draperies. For those with less serious reactions, a regular control program can make a big difference. Using a spray for dust mites is one method to keep the problem under control. Dust spray binds the dust, making it easier to clean and remove. It can also be used on multiple surfaces, such as floors, shelves, furniture, window blinds, lamps, picture frames, and more. Dust mite spray allows you to clean all over the house and reduce the chances of dust mites spreading. Because dust spray helps keep dust "together," it can be used with a wide range of dusting tools, which makes cleaning easier because you can use a long-handled duster in combination with a dust spray and not worry about the dust falling back to the floor. Instead, it will be trapped in the duster by the dust spray. Be sure to clean your dusting tools effectively, particularly if you have a dust mite problem and are using a dust mite spray. After dusting, take the tools outside away from the house. Give the tools a good shake to remove the dust from the tool. Avoid banging the tools on the wall or concrete, as this can damage them. Depending on the tool you use, you may be able to wash the duster. Using a dust spray in combination with a synthetic duster can be a great solution to a dust mite problem. A spray for dust mites binds the dust, and the synthetic cleaner can be washed afterward with warm, soapy water. Be sure to store your dusters in a way that keeps pressure off the dusting head, as this can damage them. Dust spray also works great with dusting cloths, and these can be machine washed afterward. Even when using a dust spray, it is a good idea to use top-down cleaning. Start with the uppermost areas and work your way down. This way, should any dust float downward, you can "catch" it as you work from the upper shelves or taller furniture down to the lower shelves and furniture. To minimize "losing" some dust, spray your tool directly with the dust spray rather than spraying the furniture directly. The pressure from the sprayer can blow dust away on furniture, but this will not happen when spraying the cleaning tool. To keep dust and dust mites under control, dust with a dust spray every time. Even if there is no visible dust, that does not mean it is not there. Dust mites cannot be seen by the naked eye, so regular cleaning is essential. Also, consider using other preventative measures such as an indoor air filter. A filtered vacuum can also help keep the problem under control. Visit http://www.fuller-brush-products.com

Author Vincent Platania represents the Fuller Brush Company. Fuller Brush has been in business since 1906, and offers safe, environmentally friendly products for keeping your home and your body clean. Visit http://www.fuller-brush-products.com

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