Did you know that dust mites are a relative of the spider? That’s right, and it’s the reason why many people are allergic to dust. While many other bugs found in the home are searching for a food or water source, the dust mite doesn’t need either of those things to survive. Dust mites thrive on flakes from human skin and pet dander. Humans are allergic to the allergen proteins in dust mites, which appear on the shell of the dust mites and their feces. Yuck! In just a single gram of dust (about the size of a large paperclip), you can find thousands of dust mites. Dust mites live in the home year-round so there is no real “season” that they will be more prominent in your home like other bugs.
Where are dust mites found in the home?
Dust mites live in places where there are the highest levels of human and pet skin flakes and danger, such as in beds, furniture, carpets, bedding, curtains, and pillows. Unfortunately, regular cleaning often increases allergies because the tiny shells or fecal matter will then become airborne. We aren’t saying that you shouldn’t clean your house, but we have tips listed below that can help reduce the dust mites in your home without having to clean it every day.
How can dust mites be removed?
Houses or areas of the home with high humidity levels (where humans and pets spend most of their time) are a perfect breeding ground for dust mites. Read our list of tips below to help remove or prevent dust mites in your home.
- Frequently change lines and wash towels to remove dust mites that like to make their habitat. Experts recommend changing bed sheets weekly and towels at least 2-3 times per week. If you have old pillows and blankets, it is best to get them replaced with new ones.
- If you have carpet in your home, then it is the perfect breeding ground for dust mites because even the best vacuums on the market can’t remove all dust mites that are buried deep within the carpet. Also, consider replacing your carpet with a solid surface floor such as hardwood, laminate, or tile.
- When you vacuum your home, make sure your vacuum has a HEPA filter.
- Change your furnace and air conditioner filter regularly. Experts recommend changing it at least once a month.
- Install a smart thermostat that can read the humidity level in your home. The humidity level should be 55% or lower.
- Use mattress and pillow protectors that prevent dust mites from collecting.
- When cleaning, make sure the mop or rag is damp to help collect dust. Dry cleaning cloths stir up dust and don’t trap them.
- Use essential oils to help keep dust mites away. Mix two teaspoons of tea tree, eucalyptus, or peppermint oil with two teaspoons of white vinegar and water and spray every 2-3 weeks to keep dust mites away. If you have pets in your home, make sure the oil you use is pet-safe.
- Groom your pets often and when you brush them do it outside, that way any dust mites on the fur don’t stay in your home.
- Remove clutter from your home. The less stuff you have lying around the house, the less chance dust mites can find a cozy spot to live.
Always remember, Five Star is available 24/7/365 for all your plumbing, heating & air, electrical, insulation, and indoor air quality needs.