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  • Thinking of model railroading as a hobby.  Once you have track, scenery, etc., how do you keep it from becoming a dusty mess?

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  • First, control the dust.  I've found an ionizing dust collector useful.  If you don't have a drywalled ceiling you should either install one or install closed-top valences above the layout.

    Second, design for cleaning.  Anything that might pick up and fly should be either firmly anchored or removable.  The open hose of a Shop-Vac (no nozzle) will minimize the tornado when used around scenery.  Install a stocking at the first joint to catch little people, loose cargo and such.

    Use those, 'Grab the dust,' cloths - gently.  A Swiffer pad keeps water looking wet.  (It also keeps the computer monitor and TV screen clean.)

    Or - just ignore it.  Rail facilities aren't exactly pristine unless freshly blanketed with new-fallen snow.  The dust may help to tone down the too-bright colors of the models.  Don't overclean.  Full-scale reality is a long way from perfect.  (To me, nothing says, "This is a model," louder than absolute cleanliness.)

    Chuck (Modeling hot, dusty Central Japan in September, 1964 - in a Mojave Desert garage)