The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) has issued red, orange alerts as strong winds are expected from April 15 to April 17, causing rough to very rough seas in the Arabian Gulf with wave heights up to 9 feet. The resulting dust storms in Dubai will reduce visibility to below 3,000 meters in some coastal and western areas during this period. These harsh weather conditions not only affect visibility but also carry dust into homes and outdoor spaces, leaving furniture and surfaces coated in grime.
Fine dust particles can settle into fabric, wood, and other surfaces, making it essential to take preventative and restorative action.
Here’s a guide on how to keep your furniture safe and clean during the dusty season in the UAE:
1. Seal Entry Points to Your Home
Sandstorms can quickly find their way into your home through small gaps in windows, doors, and even air conditioning vents. Start by inspecting all possible entry points and sealing them where necessary. Weather stripping, door draft stoppers, and sealing tape can make a big difference. Keeping windows and doors closed during windy conditions is a must. Even a slightly open window can bring in a surprising amount of dust. It is best to use window sealants to prevent dust from entering your home.
2. Use Protective Covers
Outdoor furniture takes the brunt of dust storms. From patio chairs to garden tables, these pieces are highly exposed and can accumulate a thick layer of dust in just a few minutes during a sandstorm. Investing in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture covers can prevent dust from settling into cushions, fabrics, or crevices. For added protection, consider moving smaller pieces, throws and pillows indoors until the storm passes.
Indoors, you can also use lightweight sheets or fabric covers to temporarily shield sofas, armchairs, and other upholstered furniture. These are easy to remove and wash, offering a quick way to protect your expensive furniture.
3. Clean Regularly with the Right Tools
Frequent cleaning is key to keeping your home and furniture dust-free. Use microfiber cloths and electrostatic dusters that are designed to trap fine dust particles rather than just push them around. For wooden surfaces, use a gentle furniture polish or damp cloth to avoid scratching the surface with abrasive particles.
You can vacuum upholstered furniture using an upholstery attachment. Be sure to get into creases and seams, where dust tends to accumulate the most. For leather furniture, use appropriate leather wipes or cleaners to prevent dust from dulling the finish. If you do not want to go through all the hassle yourself, you can book professional cleaners on ServiceMarket.
4. Install Air Purifiers
Air purifiers can help reduce the number of airborne dust particles inside your home, especially during active dust storm periods in Dubai. Place purifiers in high-use areas like the living room and bedroom. Models with HEPA filters are particularly effective for trapping fine particles and improving indoor air quality.
5. Curtains, Carpets, and More
Don’t forget that dust doesn’t only settle on your furniture. It finds its way into curtains, rugs, and even lampshades. Use a handheld vacuum or steam cleaner to refresh soft furnishings. Wash curtains regularly, especially those near windows, as they tend to absorb a lot of airborne dust. Rolling up rugs or carpets during dust storms can also help reduce the cleaning load afterward. You can also book furniture cleaning services to get your carpets and curtains cleaned from professionals.
6. Deep Cleaning After the Storm
Once the sandstorm is over, it is essential to do a comprehensive cleaning of your home. Wipe down all surfaces, even those you might not normally clean like window sills, ceiling fans, and cabinet tops. Vacuum your entire home, including under and behind furniture. This helps remove fine particles that may not be visible but still affect the cleanliness and air quality of your home. For added convenience, you can book a deep cleaning session from a home services company and let professionals handle all the work for you.
7. Don’t Forget Your Car
Just like your home, your car can collect a thick layer of dust during storms, which may damage the paint and reduce visibility through windows and mirrors. While keeping your car covered when not in use is ideal, it is natural for dust to accumulate in this weather. So instead of waiting in long queues at service centers, book a car wash at home to get your vehicle cleaned right at your doorstep. This is especially helpful when the roads are still dusty post-storm and you want to maintain your car’s condition without the hassle.
Stay Updated and Prepared
Being proactive is key. Monitor local weather forecasts and alerts from trusted sources like the NCM. If a dust storm is expected, take action early to minimize its impact. Preparation not only keeps your home cleaner but also prevents long-term damage to valuable furniture pieces.
Need a Hand with the Cleaning?
If you find yourself overwhelmed after a particularly intense dust storm in Dubai, or just want to ensure your furniture gets a professional clean, consider booking home cleaning services through ServiceMarket. Whether it’s a one-time deep clean or you require regular cleaning sessions, trained professionals can take care of everything from upholstery to floors, leaving your home spotless and your furniture refreshed.
