7 Spaces Dust Mites Invade (Even Your Bed!) and How to Get Rid of Them

Dust mites may not pose a significant threat to health, but their existence can cause trouble for allergy sufferers. When symptoms flare up, many people are left wondering how to get rid of these pesky nuisances.

Dust mites thrive in numerous areas throughout a home, including mattresses, and are often difficult to avoid. Therefore, rather than prevention, knowing how to remove dust mites and how to properly clean a mattress is a more effective solution. This is especially true when compared to dealing with other household pests.

Here, we'll explore expert advice on how to reduce the number of dust mites in your home, giving you a break from allergy symptoms.

How to Eliminate Dust Mites

Due to their microscopic size, dust mites are not visible to the naked eye, and the need to eliminate these creatures is usually sparked by a flare-up in allergies or a visible allergic reaction.

According to Rachel Crow, editor at Homes & Gardens, "These tiny bugs can live in any fabric, from upholstery and bedding to carpets, rugs, and curtains," She recommends regularly using cleaning tips around your home to reduce dust and dirt accumulation.

One of the best ways to eliminate dust mites is to vacuum regularly. "Make sure to vacuum the floors, carpets, and rugs throughout your home, as well as your beds, sofas, and any other upholstered furniture wherever possible," suggests Crow. Vacuuming immediately after dusting and wiping surfaces can help capture any disturbed dust particles.

Investing in one of the best cordless vacuum cleaners can make cleaning furniture easier and more convenient, encouraging you to vacuum your home more frequently.

For those with carpet in their home, knowing how to deep clean a carpet is crucial. You may need to shampoo it throughout the year, especially if you have severe allergies.

By following these expert tips, you'll be able to effectively reduce the number of dust mites in your home, helping to alleviate allergies and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

2. Consider investing in a steam cleaner for your upholstery

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From curtains to fabric blinds, upholstery and window treatments can harbor pesky dust mites. To swiftly eradicate these unwelcome guests and breathe fresh air into your home, we recommend purchasing one of the top-rated steam cleaners and steam mops available on the market.

Steam cleaners are particularly effective in deep cleansing your mattress as part of your regular bedroom cleaning routine. After steaming, make sure to allow the mattress to dry completely to prevent any mold growth that could trigger allergies or related health issues.

3. Learn to launder your bedding to eliminate dust mites

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'Given that we sleep in our beds every night, it is imperative to learn how often to change and launder bedding properly,' emphasizes Rachel Crow of Homes & Gardens. This not only prolongs the lifespan of your bedsheets but also eliminates any bugs, such as dust mites and bacteria, that can thrive in your bedding.

To rid your bedding of dust mites, wash them in the hottest cycle possible (refer to the laundry symbols on the tag). If you own a dryer, use it to eliminate any persistent dust mites that have survived the wash."

Do not overlook the importance of regularly cleaning your bedding and pillows. It is also essential to wash down comforters and any mattress covers that are designed for such cleaning. In addition to this, tea tree oil can serve as a natural and effective pest control for your home. Tea tree oil has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and can be used as a spray to treat dust mites on furniture. To make the spray, mix two tablespoons each of tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle with two cups of water and shake to combine. Apply the spray to your rugs, carpets, bedding, and upholstery at least once a week to keep dust mites at bay and leave your home smelling fresh. It is recommended that you test the spray on an inconspicuous area before using it on your furniture to avoid any potential damage. If cleaning your carpets and rugs is not enough to alleviate your allergies, it may be time to consider replacing them with wood flooring that is easier to clean and less hospitable to dust mites.

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For those who suffer from allergies, an air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter is an effective tool against dust mites. "The best air purifiers do wonders for allergy sufferers," according to Rachel, Homes & Gardens' garden editor. "Additionally, new designs make them trendy and inconspicuous enough to blend in with your home decor."

7. Decrease humidity levels at home

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Dust mites thrive in high humidity. Keeping a low temperature and humidity level in your home will slow their multiplication. Opt to air out your home frequently and set your heating system at a lower level. You may also invest in a dehumidifier which can significantly discourage pesky dust mites and ultimately contribute to the relief of allergy symptoms.

What triggers the presence of dust mites?

Rachel explains that dust mites are unlike typical pests because they can generate almost anywhere and are almost impossible to weed out from your residence. She adds, "These tiny creatures are part of the natural environment, which means they can hitch a ride into your house through openings, clothes, pets, shoes, and then exponentially breed."

Are you sure there are dust mites in your home?

Most people do not notice dust mites as they are tiny. However, they may cause allergic reactions resulting in runny nose, itchy eyes or nose, sneezing, and other cold-like symptoms that may improve with anti-histamines. Be aware that dust mites do not bite humans since they depend on dead skin cells that our body naturally sheds, so it's best to consider other causes if you find bites or rashes on your skin.

What is the most rapid way to immediately eradicate dust mites?

If regular cleaning does not solve your dust mite problem, try using diatomaceous earth in areas where they often appear. Spread the powder on fabrics or carpets and let it sit for a few hours before vacuuming. Take note that inhaling diatomaceous earth may irritate your respiratory system, so wear a mask and goggles when using it indoors. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.