Are Dust Covers a MUST

No. Never. Dont do it

I have the same problem with dust in my home, and don't like the idea of having to take my martin logan panels apart to wash them down. I got a pair of custom made anti static dust covers, I think they will be a life saver for me. Anyway, just wanted to share this with the forum. Here is the link is anyone else is interested www.audioarmorusa.com

Platter covers are more of a 'must' IMO to keep it clean and prevent dirt transfer to LP's. I've been using a platter sized cartridge alignment protractor that came with an old test LP record and recently replaced it with a poly platter dust cover from www.sleevecityusa.com

Get a decent room air purifier. Hel-looo! I'm using one that's like those the US Navy uses on submarines, so they say.

A dust cover when not playing music is a must.

No dust cover during playback.

A dust cover during play, is an acoustic feedback pickup, from the sound coming off the speakers.