House dust is one of the main sources of children’s exposure to toxic substances, most of which come from normal wear-and-tear on consumer products. 

• Clean with a good quality vacuum, or simply a damp cloth or wet mop. (Dry dusting just circulates the dust back into the air.) Vacuum or wet-mop once a week; twice a week if you have a crawling child. 
• Take your shoes off at the door to minimize the amount of dirt brought inside. Use washable entrance mats, and launder them separately from clothing. 
• Reduce the amount of dust in the home by minimizing clutter and by storing toys in closed containers.

Want to learn more? Check out these CPCHE resources and FAQs: 

• Bust that Dust. Reducing dust in your home... for your children's health. Attractive rack card with simple tips for families.
• What’s on the Menu Today? CPCHE flyer on toxic chemicals in dust 
• Child Health and the Environment – A Primer (see section on Indoor Air and Dust, page 65, and more dustbusting tips on page 101)
• Safe Renovations: Introduction – part of the CPCHE safe renovations fact sheet series 
• Playing it Safe: Carpets