Lead dust forms when lead-based paint chips or peels, and small particles become airborne or settle on surfaces. Lead dust can also come from soil or contaminated water sources, but paint in older homes is a common source.
Lead poisoning is preventable, and with continued attention and effort, Cuyahoga County can move toward a lead-free future. Your home should be a safe space for your children to grow and explore, and with a little extra care, you can protect them from the hidden dangers of lead dust.
Steps for Safely Cleaning Lead Dust
The key to protecting your child from lead dust is regular and thorough cleaning. However, it’s important to clean in the right way.
Here are steps you can follow to safely remove lead dust from your home:
Use a Damp Cloth or Mop, Not a Dry Duster
When cleaning surfaces that might have lead dust, avoid dry dusting or sweeping, as this can stir up the dust and spread it into the air. Instead, use a damp cloth or mop. The moisture helps trap the dust, allowing it to be wiped away without creating more airborne particles.
For hard surfaces: Use a disposable, damp cloth to wipe down window sills, floors, and baseboards.
For floors: Use a wet mop with a disposable pad or a mop head that can be thoroughly washed after each use.
Vacuum Safely
If you have carpets or rugs, vacuuming is important, but regular vacuums can spread lead dust into the air. Ideally, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which traps smaller particles, including lead dust.
Vacuum regularly: Focus on high-traffic areas and places where children play.
Be cautious: If you don’t have a HEPA vacuum, consider renting one or using alternatives like steam cleaning to prevent spreading dust.
Focus on “High-Risk Areas”
Some areas of the home are more likely to collect lead dust. Prioritize cleaning these places often:
Windows: Lead dust tends to accumulate on window sills and frames due to the friction from opening and closing.
Floors: Children spend a lot of time playing on the floor, so regular cleaning is essential.
Baseboards and door frames: Dust from deteriorating paint can collect in these areas.
4. Wash Hands, Toys, and Surfaces Frequently
Children’s toys, hands, and frequently touched surfaces are likely to come into contact with lead dust.
To prevent ingestion of lead particles, make sure to:
Wash toys regularly: Clean toys and other objects your child plays with often, using soap and water.
Encourage hand washing: Teach your child to wash their hands, especially before meals and after playing.
Clean surfaces frequently: Wipe down tables, countertops, and any other surfaces your child may touch.
Additional Tips to Reduce Lead Dust Exposure
Remove shoes: Ask everyone to remove their shoes before entering the house to avoid tracking in lead-contaminated soil.
Address peeling paint: If you notice chipping or peeling paint in an older home, don’t try to scrape or sand it yourself. This can release lead dust into the air. Instead, hire a professional trained in lead-safe practices.
Professional Support
Bright Beginnings provides a wide array of individualized services to caregivers and children in Cuyahoga County impacted by lead exposure, including:
lead-reducing techniques and supplies
developmental screens and activities
connections to lead-related resources and much more!
Learn more about the services we offer now.
If you live in a home with known lead hazards or suspect lead contamination, consider having your home tested by a professional. Lead abatement professionals can assess the risk and take steps to remove or contain the lead.
For more support, head to The Legal Aid Society's "What Resources are there for Lead Poisoning?" page.
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About the author:
Maggie VanDyne has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022 serving in the role of Parent Support Supervisor. Her previous work experience included over 15 years of work with children and families. Her experience has spanned work in early childhood education, clinical counseling services, and the development and implementation of trauma-informed practices and policies in service of children and families. She is passionate about advocacy focused on health equity; serving on lead safe subcommittees for over five years and collaborating with medical and community providers to increase awareness about lead exposure throughout Cuyahoga County. Maggie is the mother of two girls; both of whom love to play outside, dance to music, and watch as much TV as their mother will allow.