Begin with a clean sweep. Follow up by practicing these good habits at least once a week.

• Vacuum carpets and cloth-covered furniture to remove as much dust as you can. However, vacuums stir up dust, so be sure to wear a mask while you clean.
• After you vacuum, allow the dust to settle and then use a dry cloth to dust hard surfaces.
• Clean wood, tile, and linoleum floors with a damp mop.
• Wash bedding, pillowcases, and mattresses in hot water — at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit — and dry in a hot drier.
• Wash areas where pets like to hang out, like pet beds, rugs, and blankets.
• Use bleach to clean bathroom surfaces like showers, curtains, and windowsills.