The best way to clean wall board dust, specifically drywall dust, is to mist it with water before sweeping or vacuuming. This prevents the fine dust particles from becoming airborne again.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
Steps to Clean Drywall Dust Effectively
- Misting: Lightly mist the drywall dust with water. Avoid soaking the area, as excessive water can damage the drywall. According to information retrieved on October 8, 2024, "[m]isting drywall dust with water is the best way to clean it up."
- Absorption: Allow the water to be absorbed by the dust. This will weigh down the particles, making them easier to collect.
- Sweeping or Vacuuming: Once the dust is damp, gently sweep it up with a broom or use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. A HEPA filter is crucial to trap the fine particles and prevent them from recirculating into the air.
- Wiping: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down surfaces that may still have dust residue. Make sure to wring out the cloth well to avoid over-wetting the surfaces.
- Repeat: Repeat the process as needed until all dust is removed.
Why Misting is Important
Drywall dust is extremely fine and easily becomes airborne. Simply sweeping or vacuuming without misting can spread the dust throughout the house, making the cleaning process more difficult. Misting the dust clumps it together, preventing it from becoming airborne.
