Sunday, December 17, 2006

Ew! Why did I want to know???

House dust

A sample of house dust and hairDust in homes, offices, and other human environments is mainly generated by the inhabitants, and mainly from their skin cells that slough off. Some atmospheric dust from the outdoors is also present. On average, approximately 6 mg/m2/day[1] of house dust is formed in private households, depending primarily on the amount of time spent at home. "Dust bunnies" are little clumps of fluff that form when sufficient dust accumulates.

Insects and other small fauna found in houses have their own subtle interactions with dust that may have adverse impact on the health of its regular occupants. Thus, in many climates it is wise to keep a modicum of airflow going through a house, by keeping doors and windows open or at least slightly ajar. Once outside, dust particles are borne away by the breeze or disintegrated by sunlight. In colder climates, it is essential to manage dust and airflow, since the climate encourages occupants to seal even the smallest air gaps, and thus eliminate any possibility of fresh air coming in.

House dust mites are on all surfaces and even suspended in air. Dust mites feed on minute particles of organic matter, the main constituent of house dust. They excrete enzymes to digest dust particles; these enzymes and their feces, in turn, become part of house dust and can provoke allergic reactions in humans. Dust mites flourish in the fibers of bedding, furniture and carpets.

The particles that make up house dust can easily become airborne, so care must be exercised when removing dust, as the activity intended to sanitize or remove dust may make it airborne. House dust can be removed by as many as ten methods listed hence: wiping, swiping or sweeping with a hand, a dust cloth, sponge, duster or a broom; or by suction from a vacuum cleaner or air filter. Dust is trapped by the device being used, however some becomes airborne and may come to settle in the cleaner's lungs, thus making the activity somewhat hazardous.

Thanks Wikipedia!

1 comment:

Demara said...

ya I've seen a dust mite in a microscope before...they are very scary looking, it's up there with spiders as being the scariest living creatures on the planet for me.