Ways to Clean a Feather Duster (and Various Other Types of Dusters)

Project Summary

• Duration of Work: 10 to 15 minutes
• Duration: 10 minutes to 1 hour

• Proficiency Level: Novice
• Projected Expense: $0-5

Worried about the yearly waste generated by single-use items, such as disposable dusters, many individuals are opting for the traditional feather duster. A feather duster, along with other reusable dusters, can be utilized multiple times for dusting purposes. The method of cleaning and maintaining a reusable duster varies based on the materials of the fibers.

• A genuine feather duster is crafted from the feathers of birds such as turkeys, geese, or ostriches. The interlocking barbs of the feathers generate static electricity when they are rubbed together, effectively attracting and trapping dust. The most effective dusters are those made from ostrich feathers, as they are softer and less likely to scratch delicate wooden surfaces compared to other feather types.
• A wool duster is crafted from the fleece of alpacas, sheep, or lambs, with lamb’s wool being the softest and most sought after. The inherent static charge and lanolin present in the wool effectively draw in and retain dust particles. The wool fibers may be either short and curly or longer, giving them a feather-like appearance.
• An electrostatic duster employs synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and microfiber to capture dust particles. These fibers can resemble natural fibers in appearance or be available in a variety of vibrant colors.

Regardless of the kind of reusable duster you choose, it’s essential to clean it frequently to ensure it retains its ability to attract dust. The process of cleaning a duster is straightforward and only requires a few common household items.

Frequency of Cleaning a Feather Duster

A duster needs to be washed when it stops effectively collecting dust. If you observe that it’s leaving dust behind, it’s time to give it a clean. A duster that is used often and appears grimy or soiled should be cleaned to avoid distributing dust and dirt.

Requirements for Your Task

Devices / Instruments

• Basins or sizable containers
• Towel made of terrycloth for bathing

Materials

• Dish soap
• Wool detergent
• Glycerin

Instructions

Ways to Clean a Feather Duster

Eliminate Unstable Soil

Bring the duster outdoors and softly tap the handle against a railing or post to dislodge as much dust as you can.

Prepare a Cleaning Mixture

Fill a basin or container with water and mix in a teaspoon of dish soap for every gallon of water. Stir the mixture with your hand to ensure the soap is evenly distributed.

Clean the Dusting Head.

Dip the head of the feather duster into the soapy water. Move it up and down in the liquid to eliminate the dirt. This process should take approximately three to four minutes. Then, pour out the soiled, soapy water.

Tip

Aim to finish this step promptly; the longer the wood and glue in the duster stay damp, the higher the chance of the feathers detaching from the duster.

Wash the Duster Head.

Fill the sink or bucket with fresh water. Dip the duster head into the clean water to wash it. If there’s still leftover soap in the feathers, place the head under a running tap to remove the soap.

Remove excess water and let it air dry.

After removing the soap, lightly shake the duster over a towel or outdoors to eliminate any extra water. Refrain from pressing or blotting the feathers, as this can cause them to clump together. Instead, grasp the handle with both hands, keeping the feathers facing upwards, and roll your palms together. This motion will help the feathers to release any remaining moisture. Allow the feather duster to hang in a shower or outside, ensuring it’s not in direct sunlight, to air dry. Wait until the duster is fully dry before using it again.

Ways to Clean a Wool Duster

Eliminate Surplus Dust

Bring the duster outdoors and shake it vigorously to eliminate as much loose dust and dirt as you can.

Formulate a Cleaning Mixture

Prepare a sink or a bucket by filling it with lukewarm water. Incorporate a tablespoon of wool detergent or a mild soap such as Castile or Ivory Flakes. Stir the water with your hand to produce a bubbly mixture.

Clean the wool duster.

Dip the wool duster head into the soapy water. Move it up and down in the mixture to help release the dirt. Additionally, you can use your hand to massage the solution into the fibers, similar to the way you would wash a sweater by hand.

Clean the duster by rinsing it.

Empty the soiled water and replenish the sink or bucket with cold water. Clean the wool duster head until the suds are completely gone. Carefully wring out the excess water.

Revitalize the Wool

Take a teaspoon of glycerin and apply it to your palm, then massage it into the wool fibers. This glycerin aids in replenishing the natural lanolin oils that may have been lost during washing.

Air out the wool duster.

Wrap the duster in a big towel and gently press to eliminate excess moisture. Allow the duster to hang and dry thoroughly. Once dry, rub the handle between your hands to restore the fluffiness of the wool fibers.

Ways to Clean an Electrostatic Duster

Remove Excess Soil

Step outside and lightly tap the duster to dislodge as much dirt as you can.

Clean and Rinse the Dusting Head

Fill a basin or bucket with warm water and incorporate a few drops of dish soap. Agitate the duster head in the soapy water to eliminate built-up dirt. Empty the soapy water and then refill the basin or bucket with fresh, cool water to rinse the duster head.

Tip

Electrostatic dusters featuring detachable heads are machine washable. To clean, simply put the duster head inside a mesh laundry bag and run it through a gentle cycle using your usual laundry detergent. Avoid using fabric softener, bleach, or vinegar, as these substances can disrupt the electrostatic qualities of the fibers. For drying, it’s recommended to air dry the duster head or use a tumble dryer on a low or no heat setting.

Make sure to dry the duster.

Remove any excess water and hang the duster up to dry in the air.

Suggestions for Maintaining the Cleanliness of Your Duster for an Extended Period

Managing dust levels in your home can be difficult, but these tips can assist you in keeping it under control.

• Replace the air filter every one to three months.
• Regularly groom any furry pets you keep at home.
• Although we all appreciate fresh air, keeping the windows shut helps to block dust and particles from coming inside.
• When performing a thorough cleaning, use old dryer sheets to wipe down your blinds. This easy method prevents dust from accumulating on their surface.