You can buy sweeping compound products at any home improvement store. They are usually sold in bags or buckets. The compound itself has a dust/sawdust-like consistency. To use, shake the compound over the floor where you want to sweep. It holds the dust down to the floor so that you can sweep it up more easily. Many of the products require 24 hours to settle over the dust before you can sweep it, so read the instructions carefully.
The filters can get clogged so, if possible, use a filter that can be washed and reused. It’s also wise to have a back-up filter on hand, just in case. Use a hose attachment to get into hard-to-reach areas where drywall dust could collect. [5] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019.
Change the water in the bucket as soon as it gets cloudy. After the walls, wipe down every horizontal surface in the room. This includes baseboards, light fixtures, outlet covers, etc. [8] X Research source
After the walls, vacuum the floor again. You’ll will probably need to vacuum in the corners of the room and over the joints twice.
Make sure you’re using clean water in the bucket, even for the final wipe down.
Cover all of the air vents and ductwork. Secure the plastic sheeting with masking tape.
Place plastic sheeting over the entire floor of your work area. If you have carpet in the rest of the house, consider covering the floors in every room with self-adhesive plastic lining.
Be sure to leave the circulation system off until you’ve completed your task and cleaned up the dust afterward. Check your system’s air filter frequently in the weeks following the sanding. You will probably need to replace it soon after. [14] X Research source
If any of the windows have air conditioning units in them, remove them from the room. They get clogged with dust easily. Use the box fans on a low setting, which will cause the least air disturbance. Setting them on high will suck out a lot of the dust, but it will also increase the amount that’s moving through the air.
Do not remove your face mask during cleaning. Breathing in drywall dust can cause serious health problems. [20] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Wipe down surfaces with a microfiber towel or a damp cloth. Use a vacuum cleaner to get up the dust on the floor.
The more people walk through the area, the faster the dust will spread. Restrict the work area to only others working on the project. [22] X Research source
If you’re doing work in your own home, removing your shoes and leaving them behind will help.
