Dust mites are tiny insects with eight legs. White and barely visible to the naked eye, these insects measure 0.2–0.3 millimeters. Dust mites thrive in warm and humid environments and live on dead skin flakes and dust shed by pets and people. The skin flakes can be found deep in the couches, carpets, stuffed toys and bedding. Many people can be allergic to dust mites. They can cause sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, stuffy and runny noses, eczema and some cases even asthma.
Here are a few highly effective tips on where most dust mites live and how to keep them at bay.
Carpeting
Rugs and carpets are a haven for dust mites. Vacuum at least once or twice a week to help keep them at bay. This means vacuuming your rugs, carpets, couches floors, and mattresses; any area that people usually sit or lay down. Also, having a regular professional cleaning service is extremely helpful as this habitual cleaning schedule can be time-consuming. Carpet cleaning can also have a positive impact on the life of your flooring.
Bedding
Keeping your bedding clean is imperative. Most dead skin build-up occurs in and around your bed because you spend so much time there. Wash your bedding at least once a week in hot water then hot tumble dry items for an extra half an hour after drying or dry clean items to kill dust mites. Also, make sure to use and wash regularly your mattress cover. An easy everyday chore to help prevent the issue is to air out your bed in the morning before making it. This will prevent moisture buildup that they feed off of. And don’t forget to clean your dog or cat’s beds and blankets weekly as well. Dust mites also feed off of dander from your favorite furry friend.
Dust and keep clutter away
It is best to dust with a damp microfiber rag to get rid of dust. Feather dusters and dry cloths will cause allergens into to fly up into the air. Use a damp or oiled rag to clean hard surfaces including walls, fan blades, shelves and items such as figurines or picture frames once a week. This will help keep dust and dust mites down. Also, piles of boxes and papers can trap dust and create a home for these pesky buggers. Get rid of the clutter!
A Dry Bathroom
One may not think of the bathroom is a spot for dust mites, but they need moisture to live. Keep the bathroom free of mold and moisture. Also, don’t forget to clean your shower curtain in hot water as well.
Mopping
When mopping your hardwood or tile surfaces use a mop and/or a damp cloth. Both of these will trap allergens and dust mites instead of putting them into the air.
Steam clean
Having your upholstered furniture and rugs and carpets professionally steam cleaned on a regular is a highly effective tool in killing dust mites.
Keeping your home clean, dry and clutter free is the best way to prevent dust mites. If a regular cleaning schedule is difficult to keep up with hiring a professional and keep the dust mites out!
