How to Get Rid of Dust Mites
Dust mites exist where you exist, they feed on tiny flakes of dead skin that we shed. Dust mites, often called bed mites, are little microscopic creatures, that you cannot see, don’t bite but live everywhere. They love living in carpeting, mattresses, window coverings, rugs, upholstered furniture and fabric toys. You can find concentrated populations of dust mites in warm, humid places, like your mattress.
Unfortunately, people with asthma and allergies are highly sensitive to dust mite feces because it contains a chemical called DerP1, which is a very strong allergen. Reactions to dust mites may include asthma-like symptoms, itching or severe sinus problems, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
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These small irritants are in your home until you make an effort to get them out. It’s estimated there can be up to one million dust mites in one mattress alone. Removing dust mites doesn’t require an exterminator, you can start removing dust mites with a few easy tasks. Some are simple weekly to-do’s others are as easy as giving a call.
HOW TO GET RID OF DUST MITES:
USE HEPA FILTERS.
HEPA, which stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, filters are important to use when making an effort to get rid of dust mites because they trap 99.97 of particles that are 0.3 microns, which are the most penetrating particle size. HEPA filters can be bought to enhance vacuums, HVAC air filters and air purifiers.
USE DUSTPROOF COVERS.
We are dust mite’s food supply, our dead skin cells supply them with energy. Use dustproof mattress and pillow covers to keep food away from them. Mattress covers are a cost-effective way to manage your allergies because they block allergens and contaminants from getting into pillows and mattresses.
WASH EVERYTHING IN HOT WATER.
To get rid of dust mites, you have to wash bedding, window treatments and fabrics in water that’s over 130 degrees Fahrenheit. This also applies to drying - make sure to dry on the hottest dryer setting. Wash your bedding at least once a week to reduce dust mites in your home.
DEHUMIDIFY YOUR HOME.
Dust mites multiply quickly in humid conditions, keep your home humidity less than 50 percent. You can use a dehumidifier to accomplish this - there are HEPA dehumidifers to maximize your efforts.
PROFESSIONAL CLEANINGS.
Professional cleaning companies are experts in deep cleaning, removing contaminants and helping improve your home’s health. When thinking about removing allergens from your home, it’s important to understand that allergens can hide anywhere, like your hardwood floors. We remove 94% of allergens from carpet, 96% from hardwood and 96.5% from tile and grout.
