Dust mites are microscopic eight-legged creatures in the family of arachnids. People who are allergic to dust mites react to proteins within the bodies and feces of the mites which are found mostly in pillows, mattresses, carpeting and upholstered furniture.

These particles float in the air when anyone vacuums, walks on a carpet or disturbs the bedding. Mites eat particles of skin and dander and thrive in places where there are people and animals. Having dust mites does NOT mean that you have a dirty house!!!

Tips For Reducing Dust Mites:

1. Encase mattresses, box springs, duvet covers and pillows with “mite-proof” covers.
2. Wash all bed linens regularly (at least weekly) using hot water and dry in a hot dryer.
3. If possible, replace carpets with hard flooring. Throw rugs may be used if they are regularly washed or dry cleaned.
4. Minimize upholstered furniture or replace with plastic or leather furniture.
5. Minimize dust-collecting objects (stuffed animals or decorative pillows).
6. Soft toys can be frozen (for 16 hours) or placed in a hot tumble dryer (maximum heat setting) for one hour which will reduce dust mite levels by 90% or greater.
7. Replace curtains with blinds.
8. Reduce indoor humidity if possible (ideally to less than 55%) and use air conditioning. Dust mites require humidity to survive. Do not use a vaporizer or humidifier. Use vent fans when cooking or in bathrooms to remove moisture.

Cleaning:

For carpeting and rugs, use a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate) filter or double-layered bag. It is preferable to have someone else vacuum, dust or sweep or to wear a dust mask (N95 filter mask). Stay out of the room after vacuuming for 2-3 hours and don’t clean at nighttime.

Adapted from: https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/dust-allergies/

Tips For Reducing Dust Mites:

1. Encase mattresses, box springs, duvet covers and pillows with “mite-proof” covers.
2. Wash all bed linens regularly (at least weekly) using hot water and dry in a hot dryer.
3. If possible, replace carpets with hard flooring. Throw rugs may be used if they are regularly washed or dry cleaned.
4. Minimize upholstered furniture or replace with plastic or leather furniture.
5. Minimize dust-collecting objects (stuffed animals or decorative pillows).
6. Soft toys can be frozen (for 16 hours) or placed in a hot tumble dryer (maximum heat setting) for one hour which will reduce dust mite levels by 90% or greater.
7. Replace curtains with blinds.
8. Reduce indoor humidity if possible (ideally to less than 55%) and use air conditioning. Dust mites require humidity to survive. Do not use a vaporizer or humidifier. Use vent fans when cooking or in bathrooms to remove moisture.

Cleaning:

For carpeting and rugs, use a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate) filter or double-layered bag. It is preferable to have someone else vacuum, dust or sweep or to wear a dust mask (N95 filter mask). Stay out of the room after vacuuming for 2-3 hours and don’t clean at nighttime.

Adapted from: https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/dust-allergies/