How to Get Rid of Dust Mites
The presence of dust mites goes relatively unnoticed until an allergic reaction happens. They can trigger an allergic or asthmatic problem in humans that are sensitive. A protein called DER p1 found in mite feces and carcasses are what actually cause this reaction.
Dust mites are arthropods in the class Arachnida. This is the same as spiders and ticks, but they feed solely on dead skin cells. Males live upwards of 2 to 3 weeks whereas the females can live up to 2 and 1/2 months. On an unpleasant note, the females drop an estimated 100 eggs.
Although you cannot completely rid any home of these pests, they can be somewhat controlled.
Reducing Dust Mites in Your Home
Carpeting is an Enemy
Carpeting harbors dust mites and eggs. It offers an endless area of protection and hiding. Purchase or rent a carpet steam cleaner. Follow instructions on proper use of the exact machine, but most have a water container that unlatches from the unit.
- Fill it to the designated line with water.
- Pull the small plastic carpet cleaning solution holder, twist the cap off and fill with recommended product. Replace the cap and reinstall it on the machine.
- Flip the machine power switch to “on” and wait a few minutes for the water to heat up.
- Pull the trigger on the handle and move the machine forward over the carpet.
- Release the trigger and pull the unit back towards you. This will remove the excess water from the carpet.
- The dirty water container will need unlatched and emptied now and again through the steam cleaning process.
- Move all furniture as you go and allow the carpet a few hours of drying time when finished.
- Consider removing all of the carpeting and replacing with an easier to care for laminate or wood flooring.
Bedding
Beds are a common area of dust mite infestation. All bedding should be washed weekly in hot water, which kills these mites. Investing in a latex mattress or mite-proof covers will help reduce the numbers in and around the bed.
Lower the Temperature and Humidity in the Home
Keeping temperatures at, or below 72 degrees and lowered humidity levels will decrease the number of mites in your home. Running dehumidifiers dries out the air and makes it difficult and uncomfortable for the dust mites to breed. Winning the battle by default is still a win!
Dust and Vacuum Often
Removing dust and dander from curtains, drapes and upholstery is one way to keep dust mite counts low. Dusting surfaces with a wet rag will keep the mites from becoming airborne and landing on another surface. Vacuuming all drapes and upholstered furniture will remove mites and the dead skin they feed on.
Tips to Drastically Reduce Dust Mites
- Change out drapes or curtains to blinds.
- Wash all toys frequently.
- Place stuffed animals in the freezer once every week or two. It will not remove the feces, but will kill the actual mites.
- Install an air cleaner with a HEPA filter. It will remove and trap airborne dust.
- Cover pillows with mite-proof covers.
- Reduce objects around the home that collect dust such as books, magazines and knick-knacks.
- Use an insecticide mite killing spray on couches,mattresses, or any cloth surface.
