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From Dust to Dawn: Bedroom Cleaning Routines
Whether you’re reading a book or snoozing — bedrooms are meant to be a place to unwind. Poor indoor air quality can compromise your place of relaxation, instead making it a source of discomfort. Here, we explore ways to transform your sleeping area into the serene retreat it deserves to be.
Why bedroom air quality matters
Did you know that we spend up to 90% of our time indoors?¹ With the recommendation of 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night,² it’s likely that a significant portion of that time is spent in your bedroom.
Many pollutants in our homes come from common sources we often overlook. Everyday items such as household cleaning and personal care products, heating and cooling systems, and building materials can release gasses and particles into the air. Additionally, combustion sources like essential oils, candles, wood and gas fireplaces can further contribute to indoor pollution.
Identifying potential sources of pollution in your bedroom is a vital first step toward improving the air you breathe. And, by implementing a few simple cleaning practices, you can help reduce indoor pollutants, dust and allergens.
Clean, breathable bedding
Bedding plays a significant role in the indoor air quality of your bedroom. Your sheets, comforter, blankets and pillows can harbor dust and allergens, which may trigger allergies and asthma.
Synthetic materials in particular are known to off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs), potentially affecting air quality. Instead, opt for natural fibers like cotton or linen, which are less likely to harbor dust mites and allergens. The breathability of these fabrics also allows for better air circulation, helping regulate temperature and reduce moisture buildup.
Regular cleaning and airing out of your bedding is essential in maintaining a healthier environment in and around your bed. Be mindful of the detergents and fabric softeners you use, as some ingredients can leave residue that releases chemicals in the air.
Dusting done right
Dust may seem like a minor annoyance, but regular dusting is key to improving indoor air quality. Make sure to focus on areas in your bedroom where dust tends to gather, such as window blinds, nightstands, bedding, shelves, behind the bed and inside closets.
For effective dust removal, it’s important to use the right tools. A microfiber cloth, damp mop or slightly damp washcloth will trap and hold dust, rather than just move it around. This simple change can prevent dust particles from becoming airborne again.
Vacuum with a HEPA filter
Consider using a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter as part of your cleaning toolkit. HEPA filters are specially designed to trap 99.97% of tiny particles like dust, pollen, mold and bacteria.³ They’re incredibly effective at capturing even the smallest airborne particles, helping to keep the air in your home as clean as possible.
Vacuuming with a HEPA filter not only captures dust but also prevents it from escaping back into the air during cleaning. Make it a habit to vacuum with a HEPA-equipped machine at least once a week to reduce dust buildup.
Set up an air purifier
For improved air quality in your bedroom or living space, a portable air purifier can be a valuable addition. These devices clean the air by capturing harmful particles in specific rooms.
The longer an air purifier runs, the more air it filters. However, it’s important to remember that air filtration is just one part of the equation. To truly enhance indoor air quality, it’s essential to also reduce sources of pollution and ventilate your home with clean outdoor air, too.
Check your air filter
One of the most impactful tasks in mitigating indoor pollutants, dust and allergens is regularly changing your HVAC air filter. If you have a 1” thick air filter in or near your bedroom, change it at least every three months. Make sure you know where all of the filters are located, too. In homes with multiple return air vents, the filters may be placed behind grilles in the ceiling or walls. This is common in larger homes with more complex HVAC systems. If you have a centrally located air filter in your furnace, air conditioner or HVAC system, usually 4” to 6” thick, you should replace at least every 12 months. To help you choose the appropriate air filter for your home, visit Find the Right Filter.
By changing your air filter, addressing common sources of pollution and adopting simple cleaning habits, you can greatly improve the air quality in your bedroom and home.
Sources:
1. “Dust and Indoor Air Quality Briefing.” American Lung Association. 2024 (PDF, 708 KB).
2. “How Sleep Works.” National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. 2022.
3. “What is a HEPA filter?” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2024.
