Many air purifiers remove dust particles from the air. They can be suitable for people with asthma and allergy symptoms. The best options will have several filters and work quietly.

This article explores the benefits of air purifiers for dust, features to look for when choosing a device, and some products available on the market. It also looks at some frequently asked questions.

A quick look at the best air purifiers for dust in 2023

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that low outdoor air quality can be detrimental to health. The organization also says that many people experience exposure to smog and particle pollution.

However, research has shown that many people are not aware that indoor air quality may be worse than outdoor air quality.

One of the harmful pollutants that individuals can find indoors is dust. It comes from dead skin cells, stray particulates, and dust mites, which are major triggers for people with allergies and asthma, according to the American Lung Association.

In addition, one article found that house dust and its components also have associations with respiratory infections, wheezing, and respiratory allergic diseases.

The EPA acknowledges that air purifiers cannot remove all the air pollutants in a person’s home, but they can improve air quality. Most air purifiers can remove particles from the air, and some can remove both particles and gases.

Using air purifiers with an activated carbon filter, a longer running time, and that are the right size for the room where they will operate will yield the best results.

Removing sources of indoor air pollution, such as tobacco, and ventilating the area with fresh air will also improve air quality.

People can improve their indoor air quality by reducing sources of contamination, such as smoking.

However, it is impossible to remove all harmful particles from the air. A 2020 article states that walking around and sitting on furniture can lead to 25% of indoor particulate matter concentrations.

Using air purifiers to remove dust can reduce concentrations of small particles by 30–80%, which offers some of the following health benefits:

Some air purifiers produce ozone, which irritates the lungs. The EPA recommends avoiding these products.

Some air purifiers that rely on bipolar ionization technology may produce ozone, but not all of them. If using a device based on bipolar ionization technology, people should look for ones that meet UL 2998 standard certification because these will not produce ozone.

To be as effective and safe as possible, all air purifiers need cleaning and new filters (as appropriate) on a regular basis.

When it comes to using air purifiers for dust removal, people should consider the filters they use.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), devices with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can remove 99.97% of airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns. These include dust, pollen, mold, and bacteria.

Learn more about HEPA air purifiers.

There are some features to consider when choosing an air purifier for dust:

  • Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR): Refers to the volume of particles the unit can filter in a set time, and it should match the size of the room where a person will use it.
  • Target use: Some air purifiers work on removing particles, while others focus on gases. People looking for air purifiers for dust control should look for filters that target dust removal specifically.
  • Filters: Some devices feature more than one filter, so a person should check when they should replace them.
  • Fan speed: There are devices featuring fans that adjust their speeds according to the pollutant levels. Their speed also lowers during the night, so the unit does not disturb sleeping people.

Medical News Today’s methodology

Medical News Today chooses products that meet the following criteria:

  • Price: MNT chooses products available for a range of budgets.
  • Size: MNT selects items to suit a range of room sizes.
  • Extra features: MNT chooses products that have additional features, such as carbon filters, auto-shut-off timers, and filter replacement alerts.
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Below, we look at 9 of the best air purifiers for dust people can consider.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

Best for scheduled filter shipments: BlueAir Pure 211+ Air Purifier

  • Price: $319.99
  • Dimensions: 13 X 13 X 20 inches (in)
  • Filter type: polypropylene filter, activated carbon
  • Filter replacement cost: $69.99
  • Size of room it can filter: 540 square feet (sq ft)

This Blue Pure air purifier can filter large rooms up to 540 square feet (sq. ft) 4.8 times an hour. It claims to remove dust, pollen, smoke, VOCs, pet dander, and more.

It has an auto-mode feature, which adjusts fan speed according to air quality.

Its three-part filtration system includes a fabric pre-filter, a combined particle and carbon filter, and a main particle filter. People can have filters delivered every 3, 6, or 9 months.

The air purifier also comes with HEPASilent filtration.

Reviews

Positive reviews state that it is quiet and effective for houses with pet dander and dust. However, some people said it emits an unpleasant smell.

SHOP NOW AT BLUEAIR

Pros

  • reportedly quiet operation
  • can filter a wide range of allergens

Cons

  • does not use a HEPA filter
  • filters are expensive
  • some claim it emits a strong smell
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Best for removing allergens: Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier with Allergen Remover

  • Price: $429.95
  • Dimensions: 20.8 X 10.83 X 22.38 in
  • Filter type: pre-filter, HEPA filter
  • Filter replacement cost: $89.95 for a pack of 3
  • Size of room it can filter: 465 sq ft

This air purifier comes with a HEPA filtration system and an activated carbon pre-filter, and it is suitable for 465 sq ft rooms. The company claims it is independently tested and has certification from AHAM Verifide.

It has an Energy Star rating for energy efficiency and also features:

  • three power settings
  • an automatic shut-off timer
  • a filter change indicator

Reviews

Reviews describe it as effective at removing allergens. However, some customers write that it is loud and takes up too much room. It is also a more expensive option and may be unsuitable for smaller budgets.

SHOP NOW AT HONEYWELL

Pros

  • certified to reduce pollen, dust, and smoke
  • good for large spaces
  • only need to change filters once a year

Cons

  • may take up too much space in smaller rooms
  • some buyers found it loud
  • expensive
  • filters are expensive
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Best for washable filters: Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier

  • Price: $229.99
  • Dimensions: 18.3 X 9.6 X 16.8 in
  • Filter type: pre-filter, deodorization filter, HEPA filter, vital ionizer
  • Filter replacement cost: $57.49
  • Size of room it can filter: 361–874 sq ft

This compact air purifier uses a four-stage filtration system to reduce levels of dust, pet dander, odors, and other contaminants in rooms up to 361 sq ft in size.

The filtration system comprises a washable pre-filter, odor filter, a HEPA filter, and a vital ionizer.

Its onboard air quality indicator also monitors particle levels and adjusts the fan speed accordingly.

Reviews

Positive reviews found this product helpful for removing cooking smells and smoke from regional fires. Negative reviews noted problems with maintenance and limited durability.

SHOP NOW AT COWAY

Pros

  • easy to use
  • eco mode is helpful when air pollution is low
  • people can wash the filters

Cons

  • noisy at high settings
  • higher settings could blast cool air
  • limited features
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Best for a compact air purifier: LEVOIT Air Purifier LV-H132

  • Price: $89.99
  • Dimensions: 7.9 X 7.9 X 12.6 in
  • Filter type: pre-filter, true HEPA, activated carbon
  • Filter replacement cost: $22.99
  • Size of room it can filter: 516 sq ft

It has a portable design and features a three-stage filtration system:

  • The pre-filter stage captures large particles.
  • The HEPA filter removes dust, pollen, and pet dander.
  • The carbon filter traps odors and VOCs.

Additionally, the device has night light levels and a sleep mode function that allows the fan to operate at the lowest speed during the night.

Reviews

Users appreciated the convenience and efficiency of this air filter, but one customer claimed it made a clicking noise.

SHOP NOW AT LEVOIT

Pros

  • easy to move from room to room
  • tackles odors as well as particles

Cons

  • does not have a filter replacement indicator
  • may not be effective for larger rooms
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Best for air quality indications: Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier with PlasmaWave

  • Price: $249.99
  • Dimensions: 8.2 X 15 X 23.6 in
  • Filter type: pre-filter, washable carbon filter, True HEPA
  • Filter replacement cost: $79.99
  • Size of room it can filter: 360 sq ft

This air purifier fits rooms up to 360 sq ft in size. It has a four-stage filtration system and can remove dust, smoke, and pollen.

It also features a washable fine mesh pre-filter, a washable carbon filter, and a HEPA filter. It also comes with PlasmaWave technology that reportedly helps neutralize airborne bacteria.

Its air quality sensors adjust the fan speed as necessary, while the sleep mode activates when the room’s lights are off.

Reviews

There are no reviews for this air purifier on the company website.

SHOP NOW AT WINIX

Pros

  • features an air quality indicator
  • remote control included
  • washable filters

Cons

  • filters are expensive
  • no reviews on the website
  • the unit is large
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Best for app connectivity: DREO MacroMax S Purifier

  • Price: $239.99
  • Dimensions: 11.22 X 11.22 X 20.86 in
  • Filter type: pre-filter, H13 HEPA, activated carbon
  • Filter replacement cost: $49.99
  • Size of room it can filter: 220–423 sq ft

People can operate this air purifier with voice control, and it is compatible with Alexa and Google Home.

The cylindrical design permits 360º air purification. It has certification from several companies, including AHAM, Energy Star, and FCC.

In addition to three-stage air filtration technology, this air purifier has advanced air quality sensors, an app, and an auto mode. Its filtration system includes a HEPA electrostatic filter.

Reviews

There are no reviews for this product on the company website.

SHOP NOW AT DREO

Pros

  • suitable for larger rooms
  • people can control it with voice commands
  • compatible with Alexa and Google Home
  • includes an app to control the unit
  • can offer 360º filtration

Cons

  • heavy
  • no reviews online
  • users cannot wash filters
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Best for larger rooms: ALEN BreatheSmart Classic

  • Price: $664
  • Dimensions: 10 X 17.75 X 26.75 in
  • Filter type: True HEPA 13
  • Filter replacement cost: $79–119
  • Size of room it can filter: up to 1,100 sq ft

This unit is effective in larger rooms, such as a living room or office. The company claims it can filter 1,100 sq ft of air twice an hour.

ALEN writes that it is quiet and has an auto mode that adjusts the fan speed. Buyers can choose which filter they would like in the unit. These include:

  • Pure: This is a True HEPA Air Filter that captures dust, allergens, mold, and germs.
  • Silver: This is also a True HEPA Air Filter. ALEN describes this as an “all round” solution.
  • FreshPlus: This is a True HEPA chemical air filter that removes dust, allergens, smoke, odors from cooking, and VOCs.
  • OdorCell: This True HEPA Air Filter neutralizes odors and captures allergens, dust, and odors from pet and diapers.

It is available in six neutral colors and comes with a forever guarantee and free shipping.

Reviews

Users appreciated the display showing air quality readings, and many customers said their houses smelled better and the unit has helped ease allergies. However, some people say it is expensive and several customers reported missing orders and bad experiences with customer service.

SHOP NOW AT ALEN

Pros

  • infrared sensor for detecting air pollution
  • good for larger spaces
  • specific filter options for different needs
  • comes in a range of colors

Cons

  • reports of missing orders
  • expensive
  • filter replacements are expensive
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Best for filtering formaldehyde: Dyson Purifier Cool FormaldehydeTM TP09

  • Price: $689
  • Dimensions: 4.72 X 8.7 X 41
  • Filter type: HEPA, carbon filtration, catalytic converter
  • Filter replacement cost: $79.99
  • Size of room it can filter: 2,860 sq ft

This product works as an air purifier and a fan.

According to Dyson, this product uses an advanced filtration process to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. It also filters odors and gases, with emphasis on formaldehyde. The formaldehyde filter does not need replacing.

It can provide a cooling air flow and rotates 360º to filter and cool the air throughout the room. It is Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America certified.

A person can control this air purifier with voice commands and through an app.

Reviews

Positive reviews mention that the app is helpful and people found it helpful for reducing allergies overnight. However, some people note that it makes a high pitched sound.

SHOP NOW AT DYSON

Pros

  • works as a fan and air purifier
  • destroys formaldehyde
  • 360º filtration

Cons

  • expensive
  • replacement filters are expensive
  • shorter warranty than many brands
  • a number of buyers state it makes a high pitched noise
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Best for a desktop air purifier: Germ Guardian AC4100, 4-in-1 Desktop

  • Price: $59.99
  • Dimensions: 7.75 X 6.5 X 11 in
  • Filter type: HEPA, carbon, UV-C
  • Filter replacement cost: $17.09
  • Size of room it can filter: 78 sq ft

According to the company website, this unit’s HEPA filter captures dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns.

The carbon filter captures odors from smoke, cooking, and pets, and the UV-C light works to reduce airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold. The manufacturer states that this product meets federal ozone emission standards.

This air purifier may be best for use in offices or other shared workspaces, or in kitchens or bathrooms.

Reviews

There are no reviews for this product online.

SHOP NOW AT GUARDIAN TECHNOLOGIES

Pros

  • affordable
  • effective for small spaces
  • reportedly reduces particles, gases, bacteria, and viruses

Cons

  • unsuitable for large spaces
  • requires new filters regularly
  • no reviews online
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The table below compares each of the air purifiers in this article for price, filter type, and more.

Price DimensionsFilter typeFilter replacement cost Size of room
BlueAir$319.9913 X 13 X 20 inpolypropylene filter, activated carbon$66.99540 sq ft
Honeywell$429.9520.8 X 10.83 X 22.38 inpre-filter, True HEPA$89.95 for a pack of 3465 sq ft
Coway$229.9918.3 X 9.6 X 16.8 inpre-filter, deodorization filter, True HEPA, vital ionizer$57.49361–874 sq ft
LEVOIT$89.997.9 X 7.9 X 12.6 inpre-filter, True HEPA, activated carbon$22.99516 sq ft
Winix$249.998.2 X 15 X 23.6 inpre-filter, washable carbon filter, True HEPA$79.99360 sq ft
DREO$239.9911.22 X 11.22 X 20.86 inpre-filter, H13 HEPA, activated carbon$49.99220-423 sq ft
ALEN$64910 X 17.75 X 26.75 in True HEPA 13$79 1,100 sq ft
Dyson$6894.72 X 8.7 X 41HEPA, carbon filtration, catalytic converter$79.992,860 sq ft
Germ Guardian$59.997.75 X 6.5 X 11 inHEPA, carbon, UV-C$17.0978 sq ft

The following are common questions and answers about air purifiers for dust.

What do air purifiers do?

According to the EPA, air purifiers draw in air through one or more filters to capture particles that may come from dust, tobacco smoke, or pet dander.

Do air purifiers work for dust?

The EPA states that many air purifiers for dust can remove particles from the rooms where people place them. The devices need to be compatible with the size of the room for them to be effective.

Do air purifiers help with allergies?

A 2018 guide shows that HEPA air cleaners can be effective in reducing allergy or asthma symptoms.

However, these improvements may not benefit all respiratory symptoms.

Is an air purifier worth the price?

According to Consumer Reports, air purifiers are expensive, with recommended models generally costing $200-900.

A person should also consider filter replacements, which can cost around $90–175 per year. Additionally, the annual energy cost of running an air purifier may range from around $30 to almost $90.

In addition, some units can be noisy and cause sleep disruptions.

Do air purifiers protect against COVID-19?

According to the EPA, some air purifiers can protect against COVID-19. Look for units that:

  • clean air quickly enough for the size of the room where they will work
  • can clean smoke, pollen, or dust
  • remove airborne particles as small as 0.1-1um
  • use High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters

How do I get rid of dust in the air in my house?

Frequent dusting, sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming can help reduce levels of dust in the air. People can also change and wash bedding regularly.

Air purifiers can also help remove dust from the air. The EPA writes that air purifiers with HEPA filters can remove 99.97% of airborne particles.

Air purifiers can be effective in removing dust indoors and improving asthma and allergy symptoms.

They come with different filters, but studies show that HEPA filters can remove most airborne particles, including pollen, mold, and bacteria.

A person should also choose a device compatible with their room size.