A dustpan is a flat, scoop-shaped tool used to collect dirt, dust, and debris that you've swept into a pile. It has a flat edge that sits flush against the floor and a handle that lets you hold it steady while you sweep the mess into it with a broom.

Using a dustpan efficiently takes a bit of practice. You hold it firmly against the floor with one hand while sweeping dirt into it with the other. The trick is keeping that front edge tight to the ground so nothing escapes underneath. Some dustpans have a rubber lip along the edge to create a better seal.

Most dustpans are made of plastic or metal, and many come attached to a broom as a matched set. Some modern dustpans have long handles so you don't have to bend over, while traditional ones have short handles and require you to crouch down.

When you're cleaning up a mess on the floor, whether it's dirt tracked in from outside, crumbs from a snack, or pieces from a broken dish, the dustpan captures everything so you can carry it to the trash can without spilling it back onto the floor.