Learn How to Dust from the Expert

If you’ve ever wondered how toΒ dust properly, you’re not alone. It’s one of those chores people either love or hate. In a weird way, it’s kind of like laundry β€” some folks find it soothing, others dread it. But when you do it the right way, it’s simple, quick, and surprisingly satisfying. With a few good tools and smart habits, even cleaning the surfaces around your home can feel joyful.

So let’s make your space cleaner, fresher, and just a little bit shinier.

Start with the Air

Before you even think about your tables or shelves, start with your air. The biggest secret to reducing buildup is tackling it before it settles.

If you’ve read my book or seen me on TV, you’ve probably heard this tip: use an air purifier. It makes an enormous difference. I use the Shark Air Purifier β€” it’s the one I have (and love!) because it has a permanent filter. I don’t like having to buy filters over and over again, and it really makes my home so much cleaner.

Fresher air means fewer particles floating around β€” which means more time to do laundry.

I love it so much that I actually just bought a second one. It comes in a few colors (I get mine in black), and it’s available in lots of places, but I get it from Amazon.Β (As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

The Tools That Make Cleaning Simple

Once your air is fresh, it’s time to focus on your surfaces. My go-to for everyday tidying is a wool duster β€” it replaces those disposable ones and works just as well. I use this Wool Duster, and it’s a game-changer.

For furniture that needs a little extra polish, I love Furniture Wax. It’s super easy β€” just rub it on and buff it off. Simple, simple, simple.

And if your wood needs more TLC, Christophe Pourny’s Furniture Tonic and Toner are wonderful for restoring shine without leaving behind greasy residue that attracts more grime.

My Top Tips

Here’s how to make surface care efficient and enjoyable:

  • Dust from the top down. Always start high and move lower so particles don’t resettle on clean areas.
  • Avoid spray-on furniture polish. It might make things look shiny at first, but the oil it leaves behind attracts even more dust. Just like laundry, residue = bad.
  • Break it up. You don’t have to do the whole house at once β€” one table or shelf a day is fine.
  • Choose the right finish. Stick with natural products that don’t leave buildup behind.
  • Make it enjoyable. Turn on some music, light a candle, or simply appreciate how good everything looks when you’re done.

Quick Cleaning Hacks from House Love

Cleaning should bring joy, not stress. These are two of my favorite real-life hacks:

  • As Julia Child said β€” and I quoted in House Love β€” β€œOnly God sees under the sofa.” If you’re short on time, just tidy what people can see.
  • I once heard someone say, β€œIt’s not the worst thing if someone writes the date in your dust β€” but it’s pretty bad if they write the year.” Keep it fresh, and the joke won’t be on you.

My Favorite Products

Learning how to dust isn’t about perfection β€” it’s about creating a home that feels peaceful, polished, and truly lived in. With the right air purifier, a good wool duster, and a few joyful tricks, keeping your space clean becomes one of those small, everyday luxuries that make your home sparkle.

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