🏠 Indoor dust is high, here's a guide to reducing dust accumulation in Hong Kong

Dust is a common problem in Hong Kong buildings, whether new or old, especially those near roads, construction sites, low-rise units, or homes with pets. Dust not only makes homes look dirty, but long-term inhalation can also cause nasal allergies, bronchitis, and even affect skin health.

The editor uses a three-step strategy of " dust reduction at the source + daily dust control + long-term dust prevention " to help you minimize the amount of dust in your home.

---

1️⃣ Why is there so much dust indoors in Hong Kong? 🔍

• External dust sources → Exhaust from cars on the road, dust from construction sites, and salt particles carried by sea breeze.
• Indoor dust sources → dander, hair, clothing fibers, pet hair, paper scraps.
• Air circulation method → The window is opened for a long time, and dust is blown in directly.
• Furniture Design → Open shelves and carpets are prone to dust accumulation.

💡A word of advice from the editor : Hong Kong's air has high levels of suspended particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10). Opening windows for ventilation, while quick, will bring in a lot of dust.

---

2️⃣ Dust reduction methods at the source🚪

(1) Control of foreign dust

• Close windows during peak hours (morning and evening traffic rush)
• Install a dust-proof screen → The screen aperture should be ≤ 0.3mm, which can block some dust.
• Place a doormat at the entrance → Wipe the soles of your shoes before entering or leaving to reduce the amount of mud and sand brought in.
• Change shoes in separate areas → Change indoor shoes immediately when entering the house. It is best to store them in a sealed shoe cabinet.

(2) Reduce indoor dust sources

• Groom your pet regularly
• Avoid using a lot of carpets and velvet furniture
• Reduce the amount of cotton/towel items (fibers that shed easily)

---

3️⃣ Daily dust control habits 🧹

(1) Cleaning frequency

• Vacuum the floor : at least 2-3 times a week (daily if you have pets)
• Dust removal : Use a slightly damp cloth or an electrostatic cloth to avoid dust flying due to dry wiping
• Vacuum mattress and sofa once a week to prevent dust mites
• Air conditioner filter cleaning : Clean once every 2-4 weeks to avoid blowing dust

(2) Correct cleaning order

1. From high to low (first wipe the cabinet top, then the countertop, and finally the floor)
2. From inside to outside (first the room, then the living room, and finally the entrance)
3. Maintain ventilation but avoid strong winds to reduce dust swirling

---

4️⃣ Long-term dust prevention solution🛡

(1) Air Purifier

• Choose HEPA H13 filter → Effectively filters PM2.5, pollen, and dead dust mites
• Place it in the living room or a room where you will stay for a long time
• The filter needs to be replaced regularly (approximately every 6-12 months)

(2) Humidification and dust control

• Moderate humidification (40-60% humidity) can help dust particles settle
• Excessive humidification is not recommended in Hong Kong due to the humid weather to avoid mold

(3) Furniture dust-proof design

• Try to choose closed cabinet doors
• Reduce open shelves (which tend to accumulate dust)
• Use dust covers to protect rarely used electrical appliances and furnishings

---

5️⃣ Special Notes for Hong Kong📍

• Coastal areas → Salt spray will accelerate metal oxidation, so metal surfaces need to be wiped frequently.
• Near construction sites → Dust levels are particularly high, so an air purifier is essential
• High-rise units → Although there is less dust, the wind speed is strong, so you still need to pay attention to the time when opening the window

---

📌 Editor's Summary

To reduce indoor dust in Hong Kong:

1. Seal the entrance of external dust (close the window + dustproof screen)
2. Control dust at the source (change shoes, reduce shedding items)
3. Vacuum regularly (from high to low, inside to outside)
4. Long-term assistance (air purifier + dust-proof furniture)

💬 My personal experience has shown that if you use a dust filter + air purifier + weekly vacuuming and mopping , the amount of dust in your home will be reduced by more than half. Even the top of the TV cabinet doesn't need to be mopped every few days, and my allergic rhinitis has been cured👍.