What is dust made of?

Asked by: Tim Sully, Colchester

There's a common misconception that it’s mostly human skin. It's not: that mainly ends up in the bath or shower.

Two thirds of the dust in your house comes from outside, as dirt tracked in on your feet, and airborne particles like pollen and soot. The rest is mostly carpet fluff, clothes fibres and pet hair.

Read more:

• Why do we associate citrus smells with being clean?
• How do household cleaning products affect the environment?

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