How to Clean a Cobweb Duster

Ostrich Feathers Vs. Lambs Wool Dusters
Written By
Rachel Steffan
Rachel Steffan
Published: Oct 22, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Unlike traditional feather dusters that catch and hold dust particles in the tiny barbs of bird feathers, modern cobweb duster bristles hold an electrostatic charge that actively attracts dust to the device's bushy head. Because of this electrostatic charge, it can be more difficult to clean a modern cobweb duster than it is to clean a feather duster. The feather duster requires only a quick shake to dislodge the dust, but the cobweb duster often needs to be washed.

Things You Will Need

  • Dust mask
  • Rubber or plastic gloves
  • Dish soap
  1. Place a dust mask over your nose and mouth and wear rubber or plastic gloves. Take the cobweb duster outside and shake it vigorously. Slap it firmly against a hard surface like a wall or a railing until no more dust comes out.

  2. Form a loose fist and run your gloved hand up and down over the bristles a few times. When no more dust comes out, take the cobweb duster inside. You can take the dust mask off at this point.

  3. Squirt a few drops of dish soap into a sink with the stopper closed. Fill the sink with several inches of warm water. Submerge the cobweb duster in the warm water and swish it around.

  4. Gently run your hand over the submerged bristles a few times to loosen the last of the dirt. Drain the sink and rinse the cobweb duster thoroughly with warm water. Shake the excess water from the cobweb duster and carefully blot it with a dish towel or paper towels.

  5. Air-dry the cobweb duster for several hours in a dish rack or some other place where it can be propped up without flattening the bristles.

The Drip Cap

  • Cobweb dusters use soft nylon or polyester bristles to collect dust and cobwebs in hard-to-reach places.
  • Unlike traditional feather dusters that catch and hold dust particles in the tiny barbs of bird feathers, modern cobweb duster bristles hold an electrostatic charge that actively attracts dust to the device's bushy head.
  • Form a loose fist and run your gloved hand up and down over the bristles a few times.
  • Submerge the cobweb duster in the warm water and swish it around.

Photo Credits

duster image by Elena kouptsova-vasic from Fotolia.com

duster image by Elena kouptsova-vasic from Fotolia.com

Rachel Steffan

Based in central Missouri, Rachel Steffan has been writing since 2005. She has contributed to several online publications, specializing in sustainable agriculture, food, health and nutrition. Steffan holds a Bachelor of Science in…

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