Dust mites are microscopic insects that live in mattresses, upholstered furniture, pillows, carpets and any other places where people and pets rest and allow dander and dead skin flakes to collect. Dust mites are attracted to these items because they ingest them.
Dust mite excrement contains a protein that causes allergies in humans. Clean your home and bedding regularly, cover your mattresses and keep your home cool and dry to avoid dust mites.
Step 1
Wash all of your curtains and bedding once a week with water that is 130 degrees or hotter to kill dust mites. If you can't wash your curtains and bedding with hot water, put them in the dryer first for twenty minutes at a temperature of 130 degrees F or hotter and then wash and dry the sheets as normal.
Step 2
Wrap your mattresses and box springs with a vinyl or allergen-blocking cover to prevent dust mites from living and laying eggs in your mattresses and box springs.
Step 3
Vacuum and steam clean your carpets and upholstered furniture regularly.
Step 4
Avoid heat and humidity by setting your air conditioner to 70 degrees F or cooler and adjusting the humidity below 50 percent. A level of 35 percent humidity is ideal. Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments.
Step 5
Dust furniture, books, decorations, fans and other household objects at least once a week.
Things You'll Need
- Washer or dryer capable of 130 degree F heat
- Vinyl or allergen-blocking mattress and box spring covers
- Home humidity controller
- Dust spray
- Dusting cloths
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