Getting Rid of Dust Mites in the Home

Dust mites are microscopic creatures that are akin to spiders and ticks and live in the bedding, furniture and carpets of homes. Dust mites feed of off dead human skin cells and other organic material. Second only to seasonal allergies, dust mites cause many people to have allergic reactions. Allergies to dust mites can cause symptoms similar to seasonal allergies, itchy skin or at the worst cause asthma flare-ups. There are steps that can be taken to help lessen the presence of dust mites in the home.

Dust Mites in Carpets
If at all possible people who are allergic to dust mites should not have carpet in their home. Tannic acid every few months can be used to treat dust mites, but since it is irritating itself it might not be a viable option. If living without carpets is not possible, using a vacuum with a high efficiency filter will help to keep dust mites at bay in the carpet.

Dust mites in Furniture
Because dust mites tend to be attractive to natural fibers such as wool and cotton, have synthetic furniture coverings is best to keep them at bay. There are dust mite treatments on the market for use on furniture. When possible use furniture that is designed to be unupholstered.

Dust mites in Bedding
To rid bedding of dust mites it must be washed in hot water. Adding vinegar to the water in the washing machine can also help. Synthetic fabrics like polar fleece are good for use as bedding to keep dust mites at bay. Keep mattresses and pillows covered with airtight plastic or polyurethane coverings. If allergies to dust mites are severe, investing an air mattress and getting rid of dust mite ridden fabric mattress will help.

General tips for getting rid of dust mites
To improve air quality in the home, install a HEPA filter which can be purchased at your local home improvement store. Humidity in the home should be kept to less than 35 % because dust mites thrive in warm, moist environments. Stuffed animals can be frozen to kill the dust mites on them. Placing linens in a car or unheated garage overnight when the temperature is below freezing will help to kill the dust mites living on them. Sweeping floors is not a good idea but instead investing in a stick vacuum and an easy to use mop with disposable cleaning pads is money well spent. Getting rid of clutter and knick knacks on shelves and table tops leaves fewer areas for dust to settle and makes dusting easier and faster. Making sure that the home is kept very clean and dust free is of the utmost importance.

Dust mites can never be completely eliminated from the home. However they and the allergic reactions that they cause in some people can be kept at bay with a few simple steps. Those who suffer from the allergies caused by dust mites don’t have to live with the symptoms day after day when there are several remedies for the problem.