- Your bed, whether you know it or not, collects much of the dead skin you shed, this makes it a perfect place for dust mites to hang out. Choose comforters that can be washed regularly and aren't made of dust-collecting fabrics like velvet or chenille. Consider replacing your bedding with allergen-blocking sheets and comforters. Wash all bedding weekly. Heat kills dust mites so the Mayo Clinic recommends washing your bedding in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The best possible defense is to remove your carpet. Installing wood floors or tile reduces the surfaces in which dust mites can live. If removing your carpet is not a possibility, be sure you vacuum regularly. Use a vacuum with a double layered micro filter bag or a hepa filter. If your allergies are severe you may need to wear a mask or leave the vacuuming to someone else in your household. Benzyl benzoate is considered safe by the FDA and kills dust mites in your carpet. Simply sprinkle it, let it sit and then vacuum it up.
- Keep your home free of excess clutter that can collect dust. If your children are allergic to dust mites, be sure all of their stuffed toys are machine washable. Vacuum fabric-covered furniture regularly or remove it altogether. When you dust, avoid dusting with dry rags or feather dusters --- this will only move the dust around. Instead, use a damp rag or oiled mop to remove dust.
- Dust mites need a humid environment to live. You can use a hygrometer to test your home's humidity. Hygrometers can be purchased at most home improvement stores. Ideally the humidity level should stay between 30 and 50 percent. Using a dehumidifier daily can help keep humidity levels low. Running the air-conditioner is another way to control humidity levels.
Start in the Bedroom
Consider Your Carpet
Cut Clutter
Watch Humidity Levels
SHARE
