Bodenstaub

Bodenstaub is the German term for floor dust. It refers to the portion of indoor dust that settles on and accumulates on floors. Unlike dust on horizontal surfaces, Bodenstaub tends to be redistributed by foot traffic and cleaning activities. It is a heterogeneous mix of particles from indoor activities and outdoor infiltration and can vary with room use, flooring material, and humidity.

Composition and sources: Bodenstaub comprises skin flakes, textile fibers, hair, pollen, soil particles, mineral dust, and microbial residues. It may contain residues from household products, pigments from floor finishes, and allergens such as dust mite feces. Outdoor particles periodically carried indoors contribute to its mineral fraction. The rate of accumulation depends on airflow, cleaning frequency, and surface roughness of the floor.

Health and cleaning: Bodenstaub can carry allergens and irritants, particularly dust mites and pollen, and may affect respiratory comfort in sensitive individuals. Regular cleaning reduces exposure: vacuuming with HEPA filtration, damp wiping, and more frequent cleaning in bedrooms and living areas. Controlling humidity and reducing shedding sources (for example by choosing low-particle textiles and rugs) can limit accumulation.

In discussions of indoor air quality, Bodenstaub is considered together with other dust fractions. Its concentration is often evaluated through floor-dust loading or wipe sampling, and cleaning practices are a primary control method.