Simple damp cloth method that helps keep dust from settling at home

The simple method helps prevent dust from being stirred back into the air as you clean.

Dusting can feel like an endless task(Image: Crispin la valiente via Getty Images)

Dusting is easily one of the most repetitive chores around the house. No matter how often you clear your surfaces, it never seems long before they look almost exactly the same again.

That is because dust particles are so fine and light that even a small amount of movement can send them floating through the air, where they soon settle somewhere else. And if you are relying on a cloth or feather duster, you may not be removing nearly as much as you think.

Recently, cleaning fans on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips and Trick Facebook page shared their favorite dusting ideas, and one simple tool stood out.

The discussion began when one member, who also works as a house cleaner, asked for advice on removing dust from clients' homes.

Dust can be an absolute nightmare to deal with(Image: Getty)

She said: "How do y'all dust without it getting everywhere? I cleaned a house with lots of sun shining through and you could see dust everywhere, even if I did it slower and more precise. I used swifter duster but it was horrible."

Other group members quickly offered suggestions, and one method proved especially popular. It only needs one basic item that is easy to find in most supermarkets, if you do not already have one at home.

How to keep your home dust-free

According to the cleaning fans, damp dusting is a must if you want a spotless home. One person commented: "Damp cloth - seems to stop it flying about everywhere!"

Another wrote: "Damp dust every time. I'm a domestic cleaner and I damp a microfibre cloth slightly then use Fabulosa polish on surfaces. Stops dust flying about so much. Once I've done that I buff surfaces to leave them lovely and shiny. No complaints so far."

A third added: "I damp dust and buff over with a microfiber cloth or a old flannel."

It can be so hard to keep your home dust-free(Image: Getty)

Why is damp dusting so effective?

Damp dusting works better than dry dusting because it traps dirt instead of simply pushing it back into the air. When a dry cloth or feather duster is used on a surface, it creates a cloud of dust that drifts around the room before settling again.

A slightly damp microfibre cloth, by contrast, holds those tiny particles in its fibres so they can be removed properly. That leaves cleaner air and surfaces that stay dust-free for longer.

Specialist damp dusting sponges are available, but they are not necessary. A simple cloth is enough to deal with dusty surfaces, and you should notice far less dust lingering afterwards.