How to Survive the Harmattan Dust: A Survival Guide for Every Home

Introduction
Harmattan season is a unique blend of beauty and challenge. While the cool mornings and dry breeze can feel refreshing, the dusty air, cracked skin, and sudden temperature changes can make daily living uncomfortable - especially at home.
Whether you live in a dusty neighborhood, manage a large household, or simply want to protect your space from harmattan’s harsh effects, CleanNow will give you that quality service that you need.
This survival guide will help you stay healthy, clean, and dust-free.
What Makes Harmattan Dust So Dangerous?
Harmattan dust is extremely fine and can travel long distances from the Sahara Desert. These tiny particles settle on surfaces, enter homes through gaps, and can trigger:
- Allergies
- Asthma attacks
- Dry skin and lips
- Respiratory infections
- Increased home cleaning needs
That’s why preparing your home is essential.
Here are eight (8) survival guide for every home.
1. Seal Your Home: Prevent Dust from Entering
Minimizing dust entry reduces cleaning stress and protects your family’s health.
How to do it:
- Use weather-stripping on doors and windows
- Seal gaps with silicone caulking
- Install thicker curtains that trap dust
- Use door rugs to reduce dirt from footwear
2. Clean Smarter, Not Harder
Dust accumulates faster during harmattan, so your cleaning routine must adapt.
Best Cleaning Practices:
- Use a damp microfiber cloth instead of dry dusters
- Sweep with a slightly wet mop to trap dust
- Vacuum regularly (if available), especially rugs and upholstery
- Wash bedding and curtains more often
- Avoid: Dry sweeping - it only redistributes dust into the air.
3. Keep the Air Moist
Harmattan air is extremely dry, and dry air spreads dust more easily.
Try these simple methods:
- Place bowls of water around the house
- Use a humidifier if you have one
- Keep indoor plants - they naturally increase humidity
- Boil water occasionally to release steam
These methods reduce airborne dust and improve breathing comfort.
4. Protect Your Skin and Health
Your body needs extra care during harmattan - just like your home.
Daily Essentials:
- Apply oil-based moisturizers or shea butter
- Use lip balm constantly
- Drink at least 2 - 3 liters of water daily
- Wear face masks if you are sensitive to dust
5. Wash Hands and Face Frequently
Dust settles on the skin, and touching your face can trigger irritation or infection.
Make it a habit to:
- Wash hands often
- Rinse your face after outdoor activities
- Use mild soap to avoid dryness
6. Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh
Harmattan dust can bring a stale smell indoors.
Freshen up your home by:
- Using essential oil diffusers
- Washing fabrics frequently
- Emptying trash daily
- Allowing cross-ventilation during low-dust hours
7. Maintain Your Car & Generator (If Any)
Dust doesn’t just affect humans - it affects machines too.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean air filters regularly
- Service engines more often
- Keep generators covered when not in use
8. Build an Emergency Harmattan Kit
Every home should have a simple “harmattan kit” ready:
- Face masks
- Moisturizing lotion
- Lip balm
- Water bottle
- Antihistamines (if you’re allergy-prone)
- Nasal drops
This ensures you're prepared wherever you go.
Conclusion
Harmattan dust doesn't have to disrupt your life. With the right strategies - sealing your home, improving air quality, cleaning smart, and taking care of your health - you can enjoy the season comfortably. With CleanNow, you will enjoy an amazing cleaning experience from professionals who are so meticulous about giving quality service.
Prepared homes survive harmattan better than unprepared ones.
Take small steps today, and your space will thank you all season long
Contact us today at CleanNow, and you will be glad that you did.
Address: 33, Lateef Bello Street, Igando Lagos Nigeria
Phone / WhatsApp No: 09025367017
Email: cleannow.space@gmail.com