How to Make Homemade Dusting Spray and Where You Can Use It

Ah, dust. A constant in our lives that can be found on every surface in our homes. Dust shows up on shelves, baseboards, blinds and furniture quickly. Blink twice after cleaning up, and it’s back.

Good news: Homemade dusting spray seems to slow the cycle. It makes it easier to lift dust, plus it adds a nice shine to surfaces. And thanks to the olive oil in this mixture, that shine helps prevent particles from sticking again. If you like the results when you dust wood furniture with a dash of wood polish, you’ll really like this multi-surface solution.

Why Dust Repellent Spray Works

Dust is composed of tiny particles (dirt, pollen, fabric fibers, skin cells ... yuck), and when you dry dust surfaces, you’re often just moving those particles around. A dusting spray dampens the surface of your cloth, so dust is more likely to stick to it instead of floating back into the air.

It may be controversial, but most homemade dusting sprays include a small amount of olive oil. You wouldn’t necessarily think oil belongs anywhere but the frying pan, but it leaves behind a thin layer that reduces static on the surfaces around your home. As a result, it's harder for dust to cling. When it's time to clean again, the dust just slips away!

How to Make Homemade Dusting Spray

You’ll Need:

• 12-ounce spray bottle
• funnel
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
• 8–10 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional, but we love lemon, orange, or eucalyptus)

Directions:

1. Use the funnel to put the water, vinegar and olive oil into the spray bottle.
2. Add essential oils, if using.
3. Close the bottle tightly, and shake it well.
4. Use it immediately by lightly misting a microfiber cloth. (We don't recommend spraying surfaces directly. A small dose goes a long way.)

If you don’t use the solution right away, it’ll settle and separate. Shake the bottle again before each use.

Where to Use (and Not Use) Dusting Spray

Use it on:

• sealed wood furniture
• painted surfaces
• baseboards and trim
• laminate surfaces
• stainless steel
• blinds
• window sills

Don’t use it on:

• unfinished or raw wood
• natural stone like granite or marble (vinegar can damage these surfaces)
• computer or television screens or any electronics
• upholstery

More Tips for Keeping Dust Under Control

Using a homemade dust repellent spray can help manage your dusting routine, but daily habits matter, too. These small changes can cut down on the need for deep cleanings and save you time.

• Use microfiber cloths instead of feather dusters.
• Vacuum with a HEPA filter, especially if you have pets. Clean the components of your vacuum periodically, too. A dirty filter limits suction!
• Wash your bedding weekly to remove dust mites, and vacuum your mattress once a month.
• Declutter flat surfaces. Dusting items that sit on flat surfaces just adds to your chore routine.
• Change your HVAC filters to improve your indoor air quality and manage allergens.
• Run an air purifier in bedrooms or the living room.
• Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
• Manage your home’s humidity. Very dry air increases static, which attracts dust. During the winter, use a humidifier set to balance the air and reduce cling.