The general cleaning sequence in a typical household would be to dust first and then vacuum. Here's the reasoning behind this order:
Dusting first: Dusting involves removing loose particles, dirt, and debris from surfaces using a duster or a damp cloth. When you dust before vacuuming, you're removing the dust and dirt from higher surfaces like shelves, tabletops, and furniture. Some of this dust may settle on the floor during the dusting process.
Vacuuming next: Once you've dusted the higher surfaces, you can proceed to vacuum the floors. The vacuum cleaner will pick up the dust and dirt that may have fallen from dusting, as well as any other debris on the floor, such as pet hair, crumbs, or small particles that might have been missed during dusting.
Following this sequence helps to ensure that you're not pushing dust and debris from higher surfaces onto the floor during vacuuming. It also prevents the vacuum cleaner's brush roll or motor from stirring up dust on surfaces, which could lead to it settling back on clean areas.
However, it's essential to keep in mind that cleaning routines can vary depending on personal preferences and circumstances. For example, if you have exceptionally dusty or dirty floors, you might prefer to vacuum first to remove the larger debris before dusting. Ultimately, the order can be adjusted based on your specific cleaning needs and what works best for you.