Removing Super Fine Dust from Wood Furniture?

Here in California the winds off the desert bring a very fine dust that seems to bind to the surface of wood furniture. These fine particles are mixed with more regular dust so the surface looks like it just needs a regular dusting. Dusting with a Swifter duster removes the top layer of dust, but a film of this fine stuff remains. I have tried the Pledge Multi Surface spray and a soft flannel cloth, but it still requires so much pressure and elbow grease that I fear I am damaging the finish. This is true on both old and very new furniture. One shelf has never been polished or waxed since it left the store so if there is a "wax buildup" it came with the piece from the store. How can I lift this stuff without scratching the finish?