Air Purifiers for Dust

Your Guide to Dust Allergy Treatment


What is Dust and Why it’s Bad for You

Household dust is commonly comprised of dead skin cells and scales, called dander, that collect in living areas, mattresses, carpets, and on frequently used furniture. It often harbors a large numbers of microscopic dust mites, which feed off human and animal dander. The average human sloughs off 1/3 ounce (10 grams) of dead skin a week, and cats and dogs create even more dander.

Dust mites are harmless to most people. They don’t carry diseases, but they can cause allergic reactions in people with asthma or allergies to their feces. Dust mites may be a factor in 50 to 80 percent of cases of asthma, as well as cases of eczema, hay fever and other allergies. Related causes of allergies include dust mites, cockroach droppings, pet dander, and pollen.

Common symptoms of dust include:

  • sneezing

  • itching

  • watery eyes

  • wheezing

How Air Purifiers Help with Dust

Air purifiers with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters can filter up to 95 to 99 percent of particles (0.3 microns.) Some air purifiers come with pre-filters that help strain larger particles such as hair. Using an air purifier to help control and reduce dust can assist in removing it from the air prior to it reaching your lungs.

Best Air Purifiers for Dust Allergies

Alen T500 Tower Air Purifier
Alen BreatheSmart FLEX HEPA Air Purifier
Honeywell 50250 Enviracaire Air Purifier
Alen BreatheSmart HEPA Air Purifier

Price: $199.00

Price: $399.00

Price: $149.99

Price: $599.00

Max Coverage: 500 SqFt

Max Coverage: 700 SqFt

Max Coverage: 235 SqFt

Max Coverage: 1100 SqFt

Expert Review: The T500’s space saving design is ideal for a variety of areas within the home. Its sleek design also quietly cleans the air of allergens and airborne pollutants up to 99 percent.

Expert Review: With a personalized look and customizable filters, BreatheSmart FLEX quietly and efficiently removes harmful particles, all at an attractive price.

Expert Review: Designed to address pollen and dust concerns, the Austin Air Allergy Machine features a blend of HEPA and carbon to remove airborne allergens.

Expert Review: This unique unit pulls air in and pushes air out from 360 degrees around the side instead of just one location. It features simple-to-use dial controls and three cleaning levels.

Filtration Type: HEPA

Filtration Type: HEPA

Filtration Type: HEPA

Filtration Type: HEPA

Particles Removed: 99.00%

Particles Removed: 99.00%

Particles Removed: 99.97%

Particles Removed: 99.00%

Warranty: Lifetime Limited Warranty

Warranty: Lifetime Limited Warranty

Warranty: 5-Year Limited Warranty

Warranty: Lifetime Limited Warranty

Additional Tips to Get Rid of Dust

Along with using an air purifier for dust, these tips may help create an effective dust management solution in your home.

1. Mop, Don’t Dust

When you brush dust off of your bureau or TV, all you do is send it airborne so it can settle elsewhere. That’s why you should use a damp cloth, mop, or clingy surface to dust—so it sticks to that and you can throw it away. Otherwise, you’ll just end up stirring up lots of allergens that will make you miserable.


2. Protect Your Mattress

Enclose the mattress top and sides with a plastic cover, and thoroughly vacuum pillows and the base of the bed. You can also use an airtight plastic or polyurethane cover that seals your mattress.


3. Reduce Temperature and Humidity

Dust mites love warm, humid conditions, above 70°F (21°C) and 50 percent humidity. Keep your thermostat below 70°F and evaluate whether you need a dehumidifier or humidifier to maintain 35 to 45 percent humidity.


4. Use Hot (Not Warm) Water

Wash your sheets and blankets in very hot water (130°F/54°C) at least every two weeks. Wash your pillow every week, or put a plastic cover on it. For fabrics that can’t be washed, pop them into the freezer for 24 to 48 hours to kill dust mites.


5. Clean Up Your Toys

Regularly place soft toys in the freezer for 24 hours before you wash them, or wash them in hot water.


6. Replace Dust Mite Traps

Replace carpeting with wood, tile, linoleum, or vinyl flooring. Remove cloth drapes, and vacuum any remaining carpets and upholstery frequently.