Joint compound is difficult to clean, whether it’s wet or dry.
Learn how to clean up drywall dust and mud more easily without making an extra mess.
This method effectively reduces the mess.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
How to Clean Drywall Dust on the Ground
Fine drywall dust on the ground is easily disturbed.
Work carefully to avoid kicking up the dust and distributing it throughout the house.
How to Clean Drywall Dust on Walls
Drywall gets dusty throughout a home remodel project.
However, since drywall is faced with paper, it does not respond well to cleaning with water.
In addition, applying water to drywall dust hardens it.
So, speed is important when cleaning up wet drywall mud.
After all, drywall mud is intended to cover and keep seams secure for many years.
Then scrape from the side with a plastic implement.
Scoop Less Mud
Rushing and scooping out large amounts of drywall joint compound can cause more mess.
Avoid over-applying mud or you’ll just need to sand it down later.
Use canvas drop cloths to cover surfaces and to catch the mud that drops off a drywall knife.
One specializing in post-construction clean-up will have specialized vacuums and filters to handle the removal quickly.
Misting drywall dust with water is the best way to clean it up.
The dust absorbs the water and will be easier to sweep or vacuum up without becoming airborne again.
Do not use a regular vacuum for drywall dust.
The fine dust will clog the inside and bypass the filter, ending up airborne.
Opt for a shop vac with the appropriate filter to handle drywall dust.
Breathing in drywall dust is hazardous and can irritate your throat, airway passages, lungs, and eyes.
Control of Drywall Sanding Dust Exposure.CDC.
