How can we clean without triggering allergies after dust storm?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent dust storm that hit our area, I’ve noticed a layer of fine dust settling on everything in the living room. My children have been coughing quite a bit lately, and I suspect it might be because of all this extra dust floating around. The windows are still partially closed due to the cool weather, so it’s not helping much with ventilation. How can we clean up without triggering their allergies or making things worse?
Posted by Arjun Sharma
Asked on December 12, 2025 7:52 am
0
Cleaning after the dust storm can be quite the task, especially with sensitive family members. Here's how you can tackle it without aggravating allergies:

Firstly, ensure that everyone stays indoors and avoid triggering any allergy symptoms. If your children are coughing, it's wise to have them checked by a doctor. In Dubai/UAE, we are subject to certain regulations on indoor environments which include maintaining air quality and reducing allergens as much as possible.

Start with the basics - wear a mask when cleaning to prevent inhaling dust particles yourself. Masks are readily available in local supermarkets or pharmacies. Vacuuming your living room thoroughly is a good start but be cautious of the vacuum's suction power; strong sucking can release fine dust into the air. Opt for a HEPA-filtered vacuum which captures smaller particles.

Before you begin, open all windows to allow fresh air in - even if they are partially closed due to cool weather, it’s important to ventilate the space. This helps reduce moisture and minimizes the growth of mold spores, a common issue post-dust storms in UAE.

For surfaces, use a damp cloth or sponge rather than a dry one to avoid stirring up dust. Mop your floors with a solution that includes water and mild cleaning products like vinegar or baking soda - these are less harsh on sensitive skin and allergies. Avoid using chemical-heavy cleaners unless absolutely necessary; they can irritate the air and eyes.

Don't forget about your carpet if you have one. Use a carpet cleaner designed for allergy sufferers, as it will help to remove deep-seated dirt and dust mites without causing too much disturbance. If possible, airing out the carpet after cleaning might also be beneficial.

After cleaning, use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in the living room. This can significantly reduce airborne particles that may have been stirred up during cleaning. The SanIService team (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) can offer guidance on selecting an appropriate unit for your space.

Lastly, keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth in your home. Mold thrives in damp conditions and post-dust storms, it's more likely to appear. If you notice any suspicious spots, it’s best to contact a professional inspector or SanIService to assess the situation (call 800-MOLDS).

In summary, cleaning after a dust storm requires attention to detail to avoid exacerbating allergies. By taking these steps and ensuring proper ventilation and filtration, you can help create a healthier indoor environment for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 15, 2025 7:50 am