Dust mites, the most common cause of allergies in the world, are too small to see with your naked eye. These tiny organisms live in your house and feed off dead skin cells.
These creatures are dangerous because they can cause asthma and other respiratory problems. In fact, they’re the most common cause of asthma globally.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “what are dust mites,” you’ve come to the right place. We’ll go over what these creatures are and how you can get rid of them.
What Are Dust Mites
Several types of dust mites can take over your home. The most common are the North American house dust mite and the European house dust mite.
These creatures are in the same family as spiders. They are microscopic, measuring less than a third of a millimeter long.
What Causes Dust Mites
Clutter and dust are the main reasons that dust mites build up. These creatures also love warm temperatures and humidity.
It’s not possible to get rid of all dust mites, but there are things you can do to reduce them.
Dust Mite Symptoms
These mites can cause a big problem with allergies and respiratory issues. Some of the most common dust mite allergy symptoms are:
- Red eyes
- Itchy nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy skin
- Cough
- Postnasal drip
- Itchy throat
How to Get Rid of Dust Mites
The best way to help these symptoms is to eliminate the dust mites from your home. There are several different strategies you can use to reduce the number of dust mites you have. The most effective way is to use a combination of methods.
Because dust mites love feasting on dead skin cells, having clean bedding is key to keeping them away. Wash your bedding weekly using hot water. Tumble dry anything you can’t wash on high heat for at least 15 minutes.
If you can’t wash or dry a bedding item, place it in a plastic bag and put it in your freezer for 24 hours. This strategy will kill any allergens or dust mites living on it.
You can put protective coverings on your mattress to control dust mites. These covers create a barrier that cuts off their food source.
Air filters are a great tool to use to kill dust mites. Filters like the 16X20X1 air filters will limit the dust in the air and reduce the number of dust mites in your home.
Using a vacuum fitted with a HEPA filter will remove dust and mites from carpets and furniture. Keeping up with clutter also gives dust mites fewer places to hide.
Breathe Easier by Getting Rid of Dust Mites
After you’ve learned what are dust mites, you’ve taken the first step to reducing them in your home. Make your home the oasis it should be by filtering your air and keeping your home clean.
Dust mites aren’t the only things you can find in your home. Learn about other home tips from our home and garden articles today!
