There are various ways in order to minimize exposure to dust mites. Consistent cleaning of the house will greatly help as long as you know how to properly clean it. If you or a family member has dust mite allergy, there are useful tips to bear in mind in keeping your house free from allergens.
Removal of carpeting
If possible, remove carpeting and opt for wooden or linoleum flooring. Dust mites are more likely to accumulate in carpeting. You can reduce their population by removal of all carpets.
On the other hand, if eliminating the carpets is not an option, you have to make sure that they are properly cleaned on a regular basis. It is recommended to have them cleaned professionally at least twice a month. On a weekly basis, the carpets should be washed using hot water. You can also utilize a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter bag which can effectively gather all the dust while cleaning the house.
Humidity level
It is recommended to reduce the level of humidity inside the house. Dust mites typically thrive in areas where the temperature is warm. By reducing the humidity, it can help eliminate the dust mites inside the house. All you have to do is to install dehumidifiers and air conditioning units. Just make sure that you will clean them regularly.
Protect and clean linens on a regular basis
All linens such as pillows, mattress, duvets and blankets are ideal breeding places for dust mites. You can protect them by using covers that are made out of dust-proof materials. The linens should be washed at least two times in a week using hot water.
Avoid items that gather dust
It is best to remove items where dust mites can accumulate such as throw pillows and stuffed toys. Remember that most of these are not regularly cleaned which makes them suitable areas for dust mites.
How to eliminate dust mites
The elimination of dust mites are the ideal way to prevent triggering the symptoms of dust mite allergy. Luckily, there are measures that you can perform in order to eliminate dust mites. You do not have to invest in costly cleaning equipment just to make your house free from dust mites.
- All linens should be washed using hot water. Dust mites could not survive in a warm environment. Always wash all linens especially those used in the bedrooms. It is recommended to utilize a clothesline to dry the sheets but if this is not possible, you can utilize a dryer at the highest heat setting. Another method involves freezing of the fabric. All you have to do is to fold the sheets into well-ordered stacks and store inside the freezer. Remember that extreme cold can eliminate the dust mites. Later, you can wash the linen using room temperature water.
- Reduce the humidity inside the house. The mites thrive well in areas of high humidity. Control the level of humidity by using dehumidifiers. Just make sure that these devices are cleaned regularly to ensure optimum functionality.
- Stuffed toys should be cleaned regularly. Aside from exposing them to direct sunlight, you can place these toys inside an airtight bag and leave inside for at least 45 hours. This will eliminate the dust mites since their air supply is cut off. After taking the toys out, beat them to ensure that there are no residues left that can trigger allergies.
- Utilize specially-made chemical sprays. These are highly effective in eliminating the dust mites. The safest option to use is one made out of benzyl benzoate. Based on studies, this chemicals will not cause side effects and highly effective in killing the dust mites.