Puzzle Dust

Puzzle dust refers to the fine, colorful particles of puzzle board material that are generated during the manufacturing process, specifically when the puzzle pieces are cut.

Where Does It Originate?

Jigsaw puzzles are typically made from materials like wood, plastic, cardboard, or chipboard. The vast majority of puzzles, particularly those made from cardboard or chipboard, are produced using a jigsaw puzzle die. This die features sharp blades that are pressed into the board, cutting it into individual pieces. This cutting action inevitably creates dust. This dust can cling to the surfaces of the puzzle pieces and accumulate in the small spaces between the cutting blades.

To ensure a dust-free product, manufacturers ideally need to halt the cutting process to clean their dies regularly. However, some manufacturers may skip or perform this cleaning insufficiently, leading to more dust being packaged with the puzzle. Better puzzle brands prioritize regular die cleaning, which significantly reduces dust. They may also use blowers to remove any residual dust from the pieces before packaging. Unfortunately, some brands simply package this residual dust along with the pieces and deliver a "dusty" puzzle to customers.

Why Is Puzzle Dust a Bad Thing?

Puzzlers often dislike puzzle dust because it's annoying and can pose medical issues. It collects inside the puzzle box, coats the puzzle pieces, spreads onto your assembly surface, and sticks to your hands. While some puzzlers are not bothered by it, others will actively avoid brands known for excessive dust. For individuals with allergies, puzzle dust can be a source of significant discomfort and misery.

Ways to Get Rid of Puzzle Dust

If you find yourself frustrated by puzzle dust, here are several tips to help you eliminate it:

• • Choose Dust-Free Brands: The most straightforward solution is to opt for puzzle brands that are known for their commitment to producing dust-free puzzles. Research reviews or directly inquire with manufacturers. Additionally, used puzzles often have less dust, as previous handling has already dislodged much of it.

  • Shake Dust Out of the Bag and Box:

    • From the Bag: If your puzzle comes in a plastic bag, gently shake all the pieces towards one corner. Once the dust has settled into that corner, snip off a tiny tip of the corner (smaller than a puzzle piece) and shake the excess dust out. Alternatively, poke small holes in the bag and shake it outside or over a bin/sink.

    • From the Box: Hold the puzzle box upright and level, then shake it to gather dust into one area. Carefully remove the pieces, then dump the residual dust from the box into the trash.

  • Use a Colander or Mesh Laundry Bag:

    • Empty your new puzzle pieces directly into a colander or a fine mesh laundry bag.

    • Perform this action preferably outdoors, or over a sink or trash receptacle, to contain the dust.

    • Gently shake the pieces to allow the dust to fall through.

    • If you suffer from allergies, consider wearing a face mask during this process. A dedicated colander for puzzles is a worthwhile investment for frequent puzzlers.

  • Use a Sorting Tray with Mesh Holes: Even after initial dust removal, sorting trays with mesh bottoms can continue to filter out any remaining fine dust as you sort and handle the pieces.

  • Use the World's Smallest Dust Buster (Hand-Held Vacuum Cleaner): Search online for "world's smallest dust buster" or miniature handheld vacuum cleaners. These inexpensive devices are effective for vacuuming up dust from the puzzle box or your assembly surface. Ensure the nozzle is smaller than the puzzle pieces to avoid accidentally vacuuming them up.

  • Make Your Own Dusting Tool: Get creative! Grab a clean old mitten or sock, put it on a ruler or stick, and secure it with an elastic band. Use this improvised dusting brush to wipe down pieces or your assembly surface.

  • Pick Each Piece Separately from the Box: This is a simple but time-consuming method, especially for large piece counts. Carefully take each individual piece out of the box, letting any clinging dust fall back into the box. Once all pieces are removed, pour the remaining dust into the trash.

  • Use a Toothbrush or Small Paintbrush: Lay the puzzle pieces on a flat surface. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles or a small paintbrush to lightly brush the surface of each piece, dislodging dust from flat areas and crevices.

  • Clean Each Puzzle Piece With a Damp Cloth: Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth (microfiber is highly effective at capturing dust and dirt) and gently wipe each piece. This also gives the pieces a slight shine. Paper towels can be used as an alternative.

  • Use Soap and Water (Limited Use): This method is generally not recommended for cardboard jigsaw puzzles. However, some more resilient chipboard puzzles might withstand a very quick immersion in a bowl of water with a mild soap solution. If using this method, ensure pieces dry completely and quickly to prevent warping or damage. This is best done with pieces in a mesh bag to prevent waterlogging.

  • Put the Puzzle Pieces in a Mesh Bag (for washing): For a more thorough cleaning of certain robust puzzle types (like some chipboard or plastic ones), place the pieces in a laundry mesh bag. Close it tightly and gently shake it, potentially over a garbage bin, or even perform a quick, light rinse with soap and water within the bag to limit water exposure to individual pieces. This is much quicker than cleaning pieces individually.

  • A Dust-Proof Alternative Product: To entirely avoid puzzle dust, consider investing in wooden jigsaw puzzles. While often more expensive than cardboard or chipboard puzzles, they do not produce dust during manufacturing or use. Wooden puzzles are also significantly sturdier and designed to last a lifetime. They are an excellent choice for individuals with dust allergies and are particularly safe for babies and toddlers who might put objects in their mouths.

How Do You Store Jigsaw Puzzles To Avoid Puzzle Dust?

Proper storage can also help minimize dust accumulation on your puzzles:

• Assembled Puzzle: If you've completed a puzzle on a board and wish to preserve it for display, place the board with the puzzle in a large, sealable bag. For extra protection, consider placing an adhesive sheet of paper on top of the puzzle before bagging.

• Disassembled Puzzle: If you plan to disassemble the puzzle to re-do later, store the pieces in a smaller sealable bag or a mesh laundry bag. This protects them from environmental dust that will inevitably settle in any storage area.

Final Thoughts

Puzzle dust is a pain in the nose.