Household cleaning recommendations to decrease exposure to lead in dust

Hard surfaces

Mop floors once per week with soapy water

Clean window sills and wells once per week with soapy water

Use paper towels or set aside a sponge for lead cleaning only

Use separate buckets for wash and rinse water

Lightly spray floors with water before sweeping

Seal wood floors to provide a smooth cleanable surface

Place a blanket or rug on bare floors where children play

Keep children and their belongings away from windows

Open double hung windows from the top

Carpeted surfaces

Use a HEPA* vacuum for cleaning if possible, or

Use "HEPA-type" or "allergy" filter bag, or

Lightly coat new vacuum bags by spreading and vacuuming flour or cornstarch

Use a vacuum with an agitator head

Vacuum for an extended time

Use care in removing older carpets that are heavily contaminated with lead dust

* High-efficiency particulate air.

Adapted from Environmental Protection Agency. (http://www.epa.gov/lead/educationexesum.htm)

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