The use of mops, vacuum cleaners, and air fresheners does not figure in the regional haze forecast released on 4 August 2026. Nevertheless, the daily house cleaning actions done at home can determine the fate of the deposited particulates, whether they will remain in situ or become aerosolized back into the indoor air.
Below-average rainfall is predicted to prevail across most of southern ASEAN for the coming months of August to October amid increasing El Niño conditions, according to the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre. It serves as a reminder to everyone that if the dry spell persists, this could lead to increased hotspots and cross-border haze. Preparation begins with altering the concept of house cleaning in Malaysian homes.
Shine and scent are poor measures
People can usually tell a house has been recently cleaned by its dust-free shelves, sparkling tiles, and fresh smell. However, the problem becomes more difficult during haze because many particles suspended in the air are very tiny.
Smoke particles from outside can enter a house through ventilation systems, gaps in the building structure, and doors and windows. Once inside, the particles settle on floors, curtains, bed sheets, furniture, and other surfaces. While walking on a carpet or shaking a cloth or sweeping the floor, particles go back up into the air.
Smell can also be misleading. It is impossible to clean the air of particles by using an air freshener. A stronger clean scent does not remove airborne particles during a smoky season, even after house cleaning.
Familiar methods can undo the work
Dry sweeping is quick but can also lift tiny particles from the floor. The feather duster usually tends to disperse the dust from one surface to another. In addition, some conventional vacuum cleaners can expel the fine particles from the carpet or the floor.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, it would be better not to vacuum during smoke days if you do not have a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Damp dusting and mopping are advisable to clean the settled particles without lifting them in the air. In addition, the agency advises that aerosol cleaners and air fresheners be avoided during smoky days.
A better approach to house cleaning on a smoky day is to start from higher areas. Then you can clean them with a slightly moistened cloth, working your way down. Soft furnishings can be vacuumed with HEPA-filtered equipment if you have it. It is also advisable to damp mop hard floors. Dirty cleaning cloths should be changed regularly; otherwise, they will simply move dust from one place to another.
Timing matters as much as technique
Cleaning all windows and opening the windows could sound like a good idea, as it would get rid of the smell and allow the floor to dry up. It could, however, be a bad thing to do when the quality of outdoor air is poor.
In Malaysia, the Department of Environment (DoE) has devised an Air Pollutant Index Management System (AIRWINS) to give readings locally. For instance, people can check the air quality before opening their windows, cleaning their balconies, or taking rugs outside.
The Ministry of Health advises all Malaysians to stay indoors during haze as much as possible and keep the air in their houses clean. They also advise people to use air filters whenever possible.
The filters in the air conditioners and portable air cleaners need to be considered, but they have to be cleaned or replaced following the manufacturer’s guidelines. The filter can become ineffective when it gets too dirty and may be bypassed if the replacement filter is not fitted correctly.
Give cleaners a particle-focused brief
Scheduled house cleaning may simply mean “general cleaning,” which could prove too vague during a haze situation. A detailed task brief may specify damp cleaning instead of dry dusting, HEPA-filtered vacuuming where possible, and avoiding aerosol air fresheners unless otherwise required.
Another factor to consider is the presence of numerous soft furnishings. Couches, curtains, beds, and carpets can trap accumulated particles and may require specialized cleaning methods or equipment beyond what regular cleaning appointments provide.
This does not mean every household needs specialized cleaning methods or expensive air cleaners. The best approach will depend on factors such as the current air quality and the home’s design and needs. Regardless of how well a building is sealed, professional cleaning services cannot prevent outdoor pollution from entering the premises.
Clean for what remains in the air
Malaysian dry season forecasts can give residents a chance to reconsider their house cleaning habits before the atmosphere becomes too polluted. During haze conditions, wet wiping, proper filtration, and careful ventilation can help prevent household dust particles from becoming airborne again.
The crucial criterion for house cleaning when there is smoke in the air will not be the smell and speed of coverage of all surfaces. The crucial thing will be the amount of settled material cleaned without its re-entrainment.
