It is not pleasant to think that dust mites are living in our homes but, the fact is that they are present in pretty much every home. Dust mites can be so prevalent that in just one square yard of carpet there could be as many as 100,000 dust mites. In general, dust mites are not considered to be a big problem; however, they do trigger allergies in many people so, what are some things you can do to lower the number of dust mites in your home?
While there are numerous detergents and other products available that are intended to protect you from dust mites, etc. these are very often not as effective as they claim to be. Before using a chemical approach there are some other methods you can try to eliminate them. Here are some of those methods:
One place where dust mites are often abundant is in bedding. If you want to eliminate all dust mites from your bedding then it’s recommended that you wash it at a minimum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also put your bedding in the dryer for 10 minutes at a high temperature and this will also kill them.
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions so try to find ways to reduce humidity levels. Air conditioners and electric blankets have been found to be effective.
Vacuuming is another very good way to reduce a dust mite population, if possible use a vacuum with a HEPA filter as this will prevent dust from going back into the air. It’s best to dust your home with a damp cloth so that you avoid a redispersion of dust onto other surfaces. When vacuuming, don’t forget to include textiles, and other soft furnishings, etc. as well as carpets and flooring.
Air purifiers are also beneficial, especially in homes with allergy sufferers. Air purifiers with a HEPA filter are best to use. It is good to be aware, though, that while air purifiers will help to lower the number of dust mites in the air, it will not eliminate them completely as dust mites are not usually airborne.
While there are numerous detergents and other products available that are intended to protect you from dust mites, etc. these are very often not as effective as they claim to be. Before using a chemical approach there are some other methods you can try to eliminate them. Here are some of those methods:
One place where dust mites are often abundant is in bedding. If you want to eliminate all dust mites from your bedding then it’s recommended that you wash it at a minimum temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also put your bedding in the dryer for 10 minutes at a high temperature and this will also kill them.
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions so try to find ways to reduce humidity levels. Air conditioners and electric blankets have been found to be effective.
Vacuuming is another very good way to reduce a dust mite population, if possible use a vacuum with a HEPA filter as this will prevent dust from going back into the air. It’s best to dust your home with a damp cloth so that you avoid a redispersion of dust onto other surfaces. When vacuuming, don’t forget to include textiles, and other soft furnishings, etc. as well as carpets and flooring.
Air purifiers are also beneficial, especially in homes with allergy sufferers. Air purifiers with a HEPA filter are best to use. It is good to be aware, though, that while air purifiers will help to lower the number of dust mites in the air, it will not eliminate them completely as dust mites are not usually airborne.