a system for electrostatically cleaning surfaces includes an electrostatically chargeable brush , having conductive polymer bristles , moveably disposed adjacent to a solid surface to be cleaned . the system also includes an actuator , configured to linearly move a solid element toward and through sliding contact along the solid surface , the brush being positioned to contact at least one of the solid surface and the solid element prior to the sliding contact , to electrostatically remove dust and the like therefrom .