How To Kill Dust Mites

Sneezing and congestion are familiar problems for those suffering from allergies. A flair in allergies can be related to multiple environmental factors. One of these factors which many people fail to treat includes the presence of dust mites. Even people that do not normally suffer from allergies can develop them due to prolonged exposure to these microscopic organisms. In addition to allergies, dust mites can lead to asthma and other bronchial complications.

Where They Hide

Dust mites are little pests that flourish in the dark and warm, moist places in our homes. They find bedding material to be of particular comfort due to the ample food supply in this location. Dust mites find that human and animal skin cells are the tastiest treats. Bedding, mattress, pillows, comforters and toppers attracts dust mites more because of how efficiently they trap moisture. Unfortunately, this is where they wreak the most havoc on our systems. They also find carpet, pet beds and dirty laundry to be quite comfortable.

The Root of the Problem

Killing dust mites can be particularly challenging due to their size and numbers. They are also unaffected by most poisons and insecticides and to honest you really don't want to be spraying poison on your bed. However, there are some safe and simple measures that can effectively provide some relief.

It is not the mites themselves that cause the irritation. It is their dead body parts and feces who are the culprits. As a result, killing the dust mites does not eliminate the problem completely. You must reduce their total population over time. Regularly performing just a few of the following cleaning routines can assist in waging an effective battle.

The Arsenal

Hanging bedding in direct sunlight will kill dust mites. However, exposing your sheets to the environment on a regular basis also raises the risk of gathering other allergens.  If you do not already wash your bed sheets using hot water, then begin this regiment. At 130 degrees Fahrenheit, dust mites will not survive. If you prefer to wash then in cold or warm water then you will want to use a product that will get rid of the allergens.

Problems with dust mites living in carpeting can call for some different strategies. Steam-cleaning carpets has proven to be an effective measure. Some studies have shown a reduction in dust mite populations by as much as 87% when this type of cleaning was performed. Just make sure they have a good extraction system or you will end up with a mildew problem as well as dust mites.

Some elements of the bed and furniture cannot be laundered.Items such as mattresses, upholstered chairs and couches are best cleaned using hot vapor-cleaning techniques. Vapor steam provides a deeply penetrating clean which can help to reduce the mite population. Be very careful and make sure that each piece dries completely.

Consider taking a more preventative approach. Wool bedding contains lanolin, a natural deterrent to dust mites. Allergen-proof covers are the most effective defense against dust mites. By covering your mattress, pillows and box springs you are cutting off the food source and this will kill the existing dust mites and also keep anymore from getting into your bedding.

If you find that you are having particular problems with children and dust mites, then consider the stuffed animals as a possible source of the allergen. Washing stuffed animals on a regular basis is always a good idea. You may also place the toy in a closed plastic bag which you then place in the freezer. After freezing, toss them in the dryer for a few minutes to thoroughly shake out the stuffed animal.

While you will never be able to kill all of the dust mites in your home you can do a lot to reduce your exposure.