Jigsaw puzzle dust on the tips of your finger can be very annoying. The gritty feeling of the fiber particles from a new puzzles is a bummer. Yet, when it comes to some puzzle brands, you might notice more puzzle dust than others and it’s something you have to clean up.
Jigsaw puzzles are a fantastic way to pass the time, challenge your mind, and even bond with friends and family. However, if you’re an avid puzzle like I am, you’re likely familiar with the pesky problem of puzzle dust.
This fine dust accumulates inside the puzzle box and can create a mess on your puzzle table or interfere with the snug fit of the pieces. I’ve had trouble with it getting on the floor and on my clothing. It’s one thing about playing puzzles I am not happy about. If you’re looking for effective ways to get rid of jigsaw puzzle dust, you’ve come to the right place.
What is Jigsaw Puzzle Dust?
Puzzle dust is that sneaky residue that gathers on jigsaw puzzle pieces, made up of tiny paper particles such as paper fibers, slivers of paper and cardboard remnants. While it’s harmless for the most part, it can be a nuisance when you’re ready to puzzle. But fear not! With a little prep, you can bid farewell to that pesky dust before diving into your puzzle adventure.
Can Jigsaw Puzzle Dust Bother Your Allergies?
Jigsaw puzzle dust, while generally harmless, can potentially trigger allergies in sensitive individuals due to paper particles like paper fibers or cardboard remnants. I feel my nose get all scratchy every time I open a new puzzle and there is puzzle dust. Obviously it passes after a short time, but I know it’s because of the puzzles. Additionally, if puzzles are stored in dusty or moldy environments, allergens like dust mites or mold spores may be present.
To minimize allergic reactions, handle puzzles in well-ventilated areas, wash hands after handling, and consider wiping pieces with a damp cloth before assembly. If allergy symptoms occur, reduce exposure and seek medical advice if needed.
Table of Contents
6 Tips to Get Rid of Jigsaw Puzzle Dust Fast
I’ve got six ingenious methods to help you bid farewell to puzzle dust before you even begin assembling! You know I’ve been playing jigsaw puzzles for years and I’ve found a few interesting ways to get rid of the dust and get on with the play.
Empty the Box Before Starting
Before you begin working on your puzzle, empty all the pieces into a colander or a mesh strainer over a trash can or sink. Gently shake the colander to sift out the dust. This method helps remove a significant amount of dust before you even start your puzzle. While I have a colander for my fruit and veggies, I went ahead and bought my own colander just for puzzle pieces and it’s easy enough to do.
Pre-Assembly Shake-Up
Before you spread out your puzzle pieces, give the box a good shake! That’s right, a gentle shake can help dislodge any loose dust that may have settled during storage. Then you can use a colander or just shake the dust off the box over the trash. Just make sure to hold onto the box tightly to prevent any accidental spills.
Dust-Free Zone with Soft Brushing
Take a moment to grab a soft-bristled brush or a clean paintbrush. As you lay out your puzzle pieces, give them a light brush to remove any lingering dust. Focus on those nooks and crannies where dust loves to hide. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in the cleanliness of your puzzle. If you’re trying to decide what kind of brush, I have a toothbrush solely for jigsaw puzzle dust and it works very well.
Prep Work with a Microfiber Touch
Keep a clean microfiber cloth handy for some pre-puzzle prep. Lightly dampen it with water (just a tad!) and gently wipe down puzzle pieces. Flatten the pieces out on the table and wipe! This method ensures a thorough cleaning without risking damage to your puzzle. Plus, it adds a nice shine to the pieces, making them even more inviting to assemble when you get started.
Vacuum Away the Dusty Dilemma Short on time?
No problem! Grab your vacuum cleaner and attach the brush nozzle. Set it to the lowest suction setting and carefully run it over the surface of the puzzle pieces before you start assembling. It’s a quick and efficient way to eliminate dust without breaking a sweat. Just make sure you don’t suck up any pieces.
Crafty DIY Dust Buster
Feeling a bit crafty? Whip up your own puzzle dust buster using household items. Grab a clean sock and slide it onto the end of a wooden ruler or paint stir stick. Secure it with a rubber band, and ta-da! You’ve got yourself a homemade dusting tool. Run it over the puzzle pieces to capture any pesky dust particles before you dive into assembling.
Jigsaw Puzzle Dust for Wooden Puzzles
You might come across wood dust for the personalize and custom jigsaw puzzles you solve. It’s best to lightly vacuum the puzzle dust away for best results. Always handle wooden puzzle pieces gently to avoid damage while cleaning.
Dust be Gone
There you have it, my puzzle-loving pals! Six clever ways to kick puzzle dust to the curb before you even begin assembling your masterpiece. With these handy tips, you can ensure a clean and enjoyable puzzling experience from start to finish. So grab your puzzle pieces, give them a pre-puzzle dusting, and get ready to embark on a puzzling adventure like no other! Of course I mean without all that puzzle dust. Happy puzzling!
