While dead skin cells are a component of dust, it's not the primary component. It's a common misconception that dust is mostly dead skin. Studies have shown that dead skin cells make up around 20–50% of dust, with the rest comprised of other particles like dust mite droppings, dust mite body fragments, hair, clothing fibers, bacteria, bits of dead bugs, and soil.
The misconception likely stems from the fact that dust mites feed on dead skin cells, which makes them a significant source of dust in homes. However, other sources contribute significantly to the overall dust composition.
It's important to note that the exact composition of dust can vary depending on factors like the environment, location, and cleaning habits.
