Dust not only looks unhealthy, it can be unhealthy—just a pinch contains several thousand microscopic dust mites that can cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma attacks. Getting the itch to start dusting? Good.

Instructions

• Step 1: Grab a footstool or stepladder so you can reach the highest surfaces in your home—skylights, ceiling fans, chandeliers, cabinet tops, the tops of door and window frames, bookshelves, etc.
• Step 2: Dampen the microfiber cloth with the spray bottle, and gently rub it along all the surfaces in your home until the dust and dirt is removed.
• TIP: It's a good idea to dust from high to low—that way, you can catch the dust you stir up as you move toward the floor.
• Step 3: Close any blinds and use your vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean them from top to bottom, keeping smooth, even contact with the surface of the blinds.
• Step 4: Remove the cushions from your furniture, bring them outside, and gently clap them together a few times to loosen the dust.
• Step 5: Place the cushions on a clean surface and use the vacuum to remove any remaining dust.
• TIP: If it's a nice day, lay your cushions on a clean blanket and vacuum them outside.
• Step 6: Return the cushions to their places.
• Step 7: Before replacing the cushions, clean your bare furniture by vacuuming any upholstered parts and crevices and wiping any wooden surfaces with the damp cloth.
• Step 8: Run the damp cloth along any other wooden surfaces such as tables, bookcases, and chairs.
• Step 9: Spray any dusty plants with the spray bottle (on its "mist" setting) and carefully wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. Then dry the plants with a clean, dry cloth.
• Step 10: Go over the surfaces of electronic devices gently with a microfiber cloth.
• Step 11: Use the vacuum with brush attachment to remove dust from any lampshades.
• Step 12: Sweep the floor with a broom and dustpan.
• Step 13: Go over your floor with a microfiber dust mop, or with a vacuum that has a floor or brush attachment. Congratulations! You can now breathe easy
• FACT: Dust mites aren't parasites—they live off the 1/5 ounce of dead skin that we all shed every week.