Dusting removes the dust, and if that’s all you’re looking to do, it’s a fine alternative. However, wood is a substance that can degrade over time, especially if it’s unvarnished. Many furniture polishes contain helpful ingredients, such as oils that help protect the wood. Without some care, wood can get old and dry out. If you don’t like those nasty sprays, there are more environmentally-friendly alternatives for cleaning and caring for wood.