How to get rid of house dust mites?

Understanding House Dust Mites

What Are Dust Mites?

Their Biology and Lifecycle

House dust mites (Dermatophagoides spp.) are microscopic arachnids, typically 0.2–0.3 mm long, lacking eyes and wings. Their exoskeleton contains chitin, providing resistance to desiccation but requiring high humidity (≥ 75 % RH) to maintain metabolic activity. Primary food sources are shed human skin cells, fungal spores, and bacterial fragments; these nutrients accumulate in upholstered furniture, carpets, and bedding.

Reproduction proceeds through a defined sequence of developmental stages. Each female lays 40–100 eggs over a lifespan of 30–40 days. The lifecycle comprises:

Egg – incubation lasts 2–3 days under optimal temperature (22–25 °C) and humidity.
Larva – six-legged, feeding for 3–4 days before molting.
Protonymph – eight-legged, active for 3–4 days, then molts.
Deutonymph – similar to protonymph, persists 3–4 days before the final molt.
Adult – mature, reproductive, living 2–3 months; females continue oviposition while males seek mates.

Population growth accelerates when environmental conditions remain stable; a single female can generate thousands of descendants within months. Mortality spikes when relative humidity falls below 50 % or temperature exceeds 30 °C, as dehydration and heat stress impair physiological processes. Dust mites lack the ability to survive prolonged dry periods, leading to dormancy or death.

Understanding these biological constraints informs effective eradication measures. Reducing indoor humidity below the threshold for activity, maintaining temperatures outside the optimal range, and removing accumulated skin debris deprive mites of essential resources, interrupting their reproductive cycle and limiting population expansion.

Where Do They Live?

Dust mites thrive in environments that supply skin flakes, moisture, and warmth. Their primary habitats in residential settings include:

Mattress surfaces and pillowcases, where body heat raises temperature and humidity.
Box springs, bed frames, and upholstered headboards that retain moisture.
Carpets and area rugs, especially those with dense fibers that trap debris.
Upholstered sofas, armchairs, and recliners, offering concealed crevices.
Heavy curtains and draperies, which accumulate dust and maintain high humidity.
Soft toys and stuffed animals, providing plentiful organic material.
Fabric-covered storage bins and closets, where limited airflow preserves moisture.

These locations share characteristics of low air circulation, relative humidity above 50 %, and temperatures between 20‑25 °C (68‑77 °F). Reducing moisture and regularly cleaning or removing infested fabrics interrupt the mite life cycle and limit population growth.

Why Are They a Problem?

Allergic Reactions and Symptoms

House dust mites produce proteins that trigger immune responses in sensitive individuals. When inhaled or contacted, these allergens can provoke a range of acute and chronic reactions affecting the respiratory tract, skin, and eyes.

Typical manifestations include:

Sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose
Itchy, watery eyes
Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath
Skin itching, rashes, or eczema flare‑ups
Asthma attacks characterized by chest tightness and reduced airflow

Persistent exposure often worsens symptoms and may lead to increased medication use. Reducing mite populations—through regular laundering of bedding, low‑humidity environments, and vacuuming with HEPA filters—directly lowers allergen load and alleviates the described reactions.

Health Risks

Dust mites thrive in bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpets, where they produce allergenic fecal particles and fragmented bodies. Inhalation of these particles triggers immune responses that can compromise respiratory health.

Allergic rhinitis: sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes result from sensitization to mite allergens.
Asthma exacerbation: airway inflammation intensifies, leading to wheezing, shortness of breath, and increased medication use.
Atopic dermatitis: skin irritation and chronic itching arise when mite proteins contact compromised skin barriers.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: rare but severe lung inflammation may develop after prolonged exposure.

Persistent exposure elevates the risk of chronic respiratory conditions and reduces overall quality of life. Reducing mite populations lowers allergen loads, directly diminishing the frequency and severity of these health issues. Effective control measures—regular washing of linens at high temperatures, use of allergen-impermeable covers, humidity reduction, and thorough vacuuming with HEPA filters—target the sources of exposure and protect vulnerable individuals.

Strategies for Dust Mite Control

Environmental Management

Reducing Humidity

Dust mites thrive in environments where relative humidity exceeds 50 %. Lowering indoor moisture disrupts their life cycle, reduces reproduction rates, and limits the availability of mold and fungi that serve as food sources.

Target humidity should be maintained between 30 % and 45 % year‑round. Achieving this range requires consistent control of moisture sources and active regulation of air conditions.

Install a dehumidifier sized for the room; run it continuously in damp seasons and set a timer for dry periods.
Use air‑conditioning units with built‑in humidity controls; keep filters clean to ensure efficient moisture removal.
Increase ventilation by opening windows or installing exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms; run them during showers and cooking.
Place moisture‑absorbing products such as silica gel packs or calcium chloride containers in closets, under beds, and in storage areas.
Repair leaks in roofs, pipes, and foundations promptly; seal cracks that allow water infiltration.
Avoid indoor drying of laundry; use a dryer or external line to prevent added humidity.

Monitoring devices, such as digital hygrometers, provide real‑time feedback. Adjust dehumidifier settings or ventilation rates when readings approach the upper limit of the target range. Consistent humidity management, combined with regular cleaning, creates an environment hostile to dust mites and supports long‑term reduction of allergen exposure.

Maintaining Optimal Temperature

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments; temperature directly influences their reproductive cycle and survival rate. Maintaining indoor air at a cooler level interrupts development and reduces population density.

The most effective temperature range for limiting dust mite activity is 68–72 °F (20–22 °C). Within this band, metabolic processes slow, egg viability declines, and adult longevity shortens. Temperatures above 75 °F (24 °C) accelerate breeding, while temperatures below 65 °F (18 °C) may cause discomfort for occupants and increase heating costs.

Practical measures to keep indoor temperature within the optimal range:

Set thermostat to 70 °F (21 °C) during daytime; lower to 65 °F (18 °C) at night if heating permits.
Use programmable thermostats to enforce consistent settings.
Position radiators, space heaters, or cooling vents away from sleeping areas to avoid localized hotspots.
Insulate windows and doors to prevent external heat gain that can raise room temperature.
Monitor temperature with digital hygrometers that display both temperature and humidity; adjust HVAC output accordingly.

Consistent adherence to these temperature controls, combined with humidity management, creates an environment hostile to dust mites and supports long‑term reduction of their presence.

Improving Ventilation

Improving ventilation reduces humidity, a condition that supports dust mite survival. By lowering indoor moisture, the environment becomes hostile to these organisms, limiting their reproduction and activity.

Key actions include:

Installing exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms; run them during and after activities that generate steam or moisture.
Using a whole‑house ventilation system with controlled airflow to exchange stale indoor air for fresh outdoor air.
Opening windows daily for at least 15 minutes, especially in rooms where humidity tends to rise.
Positioning dehumidifiers near sources of dampness while ensuring they do not obstruct air movement.

Maintain a regular schedule for cleaning vents and filters to prevent blockage. Replace air‑conditioning and furnace filters with high‑efficiency models and change them every three months. Consistent airflow management, combined with other control measures, significantly curtails dust mite populations in residential settings.

Cleaning Practices

Regular Vacuuming

Regular vacuuming removes the primary food source for dust mites—dead skin cells and fine dust—thereby limiting their survival and reproduction. A vacuum equipped with a high‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter captures particles as small as 0.3 µm, preventing them from re‑entering the indoor environment.

Effective vacuuming routine:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture at least twice weekly.
Use a slow, overlapping pass to ensure deep penetration of the pile.
Empty or replace the vacuum bag/collection can after each session to avoid re‑contamination.
Clean the brush roll and filter regularly to maintain suction power.
Extend the process to curtains, drapes, and bedding frames where dust accumulates.

Consistent application of these steps reduces allergen load, supports other control measures, and contributes to a healthier living space.

Washing Bedding and Fabrics

Regular laundering of bedding and textiles removes dust‑mite allergens and interrupts their life cycle. Hot water kills mites and dissolves their fecal particles, while thorough drying prevents re‑colonisation.

Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers at ≥ 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes.
Use a detergent without added fragrances that could irritate sensitive skin.
Rinse completely to eliminate residual detergent that may attract mites.
Dry on high heat for a minimum of 20 minutes; avoid line‑drying in humid conditions.

Repeat the process weekly for active infestations, then shift to a bi‑weekly schedule for maintenance. For items that cannot endure high temperatures, place them in a sealed bag and expose them to a dryer on the hottest setting for 30 minutes; alternatively, use a steam cleaner that reaches ≥ 100 °C. Store clean fabrics in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags to limit re‑exposure.

Dusting Surfaces

Dusting removes the primary food source for house dust mites—accumulated skin flakes and debris—thereby limiting their population.

Effective dusting practices:

Use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild detergent solution; the moisture traps particles instead of dispersing them into the air.
Start at the highest point in a room (shelves, ceiling fans, light fixtures) and work downward to prevent re‑settling of dust on cleaned surfaces.
Apply a two‑step approach: first wipe surfaces, then follow with a HEPA‑filtered vacuum equipped with a brush attachment to capture loosened dust.
Clean upholstered furniture, mattresses, and pillows with a vacuum that has an upholstery tool; repeat weekly.
Include hard‑to‑reach areas such as behind appliances, under cabinets, and window tracks in the routine.

Frequency and timing:

Perform a thorough dusting session at least once a week in bedrooms and living areas.
Increase to twice weekly during high‑humidity seasons, when mite activity peaks.

Precautions:

Avoid dry dusting with feather dusters or dry cloths, which can aerosolize allergens.
Do not use harsh chemicals that may damage fabrics or irritate respiratory passages.
Ensure adequate ventilation while cleaning, but close windows if outdoor pollen levels are high to prevent additional allergen entry.

Using HEPA Filters

HEPA filters capture particles as small as 0.3 µm with 99.97 % efficiency, removing dust mite debris, feces, and allergens from indoor air. Installing a HEPA filter in a central HVAC system circulates cleaned air throughout the residence, reducing the concentration of airborne mite particles.

Key benefits of HEPA filtration:

Immediate reduction of allergen load in living spaces.
Continuous operation, maintaining low particle levels without manual intervention.
Compatibility with most modern furnaces, air purifiers, and portable units.

Effective implementation steps:

Verify filter rating (HEPA‑H13 or higher) before purchase.
Replace existing HVAC or portable unit filter with the HEPA model, ensuring a proper seal to prevent bypass.
Schedule filter replacement according to manufacturer guidelines, typically every 6–12 months, to preserve capture efficiency.
Combine filtration with regular vacuuming using a HEPA‑equipped vacuum cleaner to address settled dust.

Performance monitoring: use a portable particle counter or allergen test kit quarterly to confirm a decline in mite‑related particles. Persistent high counts may indicate filter leakage, improper installation, or the need for additional air cleaning devices in high‑traffic rooms.

Overall, integrating HEPA filtration into the home’s ventilation system provides a reliable, low‑maintenance method for minimizing dust mite exposure and improving indoor air quality.

Specific Product Solutions

Allergen-Proof Covers

Allergen‑proof covers are encasements designed to seal mattresses, pillows, and upholstered furniture, creating a barrier that prevents dust mites and their waste particles from escaping into the sleeping environment. The fabric typically features a pore size of 10–15 µm, small enough to block microscopic allergens while allowing air circulation.

Key characteristics to consider when selecting covers:

Material durability: Polyester or tightly woven cotton with reinforced seams resists tearing and maintains barrier integrity over years of use.
Fit precision: Zippers or overlapping closures should overlap by at least 2 inches to eliminate gaps.
Washability: Covers must tolerate temperatures of 130 °F (54 °C) or higher, ensuring the destruction of any remaining mite populations.
Certification: Look for products meeting standards such as the European EN 14971 or the U.S. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) seal rating.

Proper installation involves removing existing bedding, placing the cover over the entire mattress or pillow, and sealing all edges securely. After placement, wash the cover according to manufacturer instructions at the recommended temperature, then dry on a high‑heat setting to eliminate residual organisms.

Effectiveness studies indicate that using allergen‑proof encasements reduces dust‑mite allergen concentrations by 70–90 % within weeks, provided the barrier remains intact and is regularly laundered. The covers do not eradicate mites inside the sealed item; they limit exposure by containing the organisms and their fecal matter.

For optimal control of dust‑mite infestations, combine encasements with additional measures such as regular vacuuming with HEPA filters, humidity reduction below 50 %, and frequent laundering of bedding. This integrated approach maximizes allergen reduction while preserving a comfortable living environment.

Acaricides and Sprays

Acaricides and sprays provide a direct chemical method for reducing house dust mite populations. These products contain compounds that disrupt the nervous system of mites, leading to rapid mortality upon contact.

Common active ingredients include:

Permethrin – synthetic pyrethroid, effective against all life stages.
Benzyl benzoate – oil‑soluble, penetrates fabric fibers.
Pyrethrins – natural extract, short‑acting, requires frequent re‑application.
Tetramethrin – fast‑acting, limited residual effect.

Application guidelines:

Dilute according to manufacturer instructions; excessive concentration offers no additional benefit and increases health risk.
Apply to upholstered furniture, mattresses, curtains, and carpets while the area is unoccupied.
Maintain ventilation for at least 30 minutes after treatment.
Use protective gloves and a mask to avoid dermal and respiratory exposure.

Safety considerations:

Verify that occupants, especially children and pets, are removed from treated zones until the product has dried.
Store acaricides in a locked, temperature‑controlled environment to prevent accidental ingestion.
Conduct a patch test on a small fabric area to assess potential discoloration.

Limitations:

Chemical control does not eradicate eggs; repeated applications at two‑week intervals are necessary to target emerging hatchlings.
Overuse may foster resistance; rotating active ingredients mitigates this risk.
Integration with non‑chemical measures—regular laundering, humidity reduction, and vacuuming—enhances overall effectiveness.

Air Purifiers

Air purifiers reduce indoor dust‑mite populations by removing airborne particles that serve as food and by lowering humidity levels that favor mite survival.

HEPA‑grade filters capture particles as small as 0.3 µm, including mite feces, shed skin and dead organisms. Activated‑carbon media adsorb volatile organic compounds that can aggravate allergic reactions. Some models incorporate moisture‑removing technology, decreasing relative humidity below the 50 % threshold that limits mite reproduction.

Key specifications to consider:

True HEPA filter efficiency ≥ 99.97 % at 0.3 µm.
CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) matched to room size; a minimum of 200 ft³/min for 250 sq ft.
Integrated hygrometer or dehumidification function.
Filter lifespan indicator and easy‑replace cartridge design.

Regular maintenance preserves effectiveness. Replace HEPA filters according to manufacturer schedule, typically every 6–12 months. Clean pre‑filters weekly to prevent clogging. Verify that the unit operates continuously during high‑activity periods, such as cleaning or bedding changes.

Combine air purification with frequent laundering of bedding at ≥ 130 °F, vacuuming with a HEPA‑equipped cleaner, and reducing indoor humidity through ventilation or dedicated dehumidifiers. This multipronged approach maximizes reduction of dust‑mite exposure and improves indoor air quality.

Professional Interventions

Deep Cleaning Services

Deep cleaning services provide a systematic approach to eliminating house dust mites. Professionals target the microscopic organisms that thrive in carpets, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and floor coverings, using equipment that exceeds the capabilities of standard household tools.

The process includes high‑efficiency vacuuming with HEPA‑rated filters, steam‑based disinfection, and thorough cleaning of hard surfaces. Specialized treatments reach deep into fibers where dust mite populations usually hide, reducing allergen levels dramatically.

HEPA vacuuming of all carpeted areas and rugs
Steam cleaning of mattresses, pillows, and upholstered pieces
Application of acaricidal solutions to crevices and seams
Sanitization of floorboards, tile grout, and baseboards
Post‑cleaning inspection to confirm reduced mite counts

Professional deep cleaning yields measurable decreases in allergen concentrations, extends the lifespan of furnishings, and lowers the risk of respiratory irritation. Results last longer than those achieved with occasional DIY efforts because the methods eradicate both live mites and their eggs.

When selecting a provider, verify certification in indoor‑air‑quality remediation, request documentation of HEPA‑filter usage, and confirm a schedule that includes quarterly visits for homes with persistent infestations. Consistent deep cleaning, combined with routine laundering of bedding at high temperatures, forms a comprehensive strategy for controlling dust mite populations.

Pest Control Specialists

Pest control specialists possess the expertise required to eliminate house dust mites effectively. Their training includes identification of mite habitats, assessment of infestation severity, and selection of appropriate treatment protocols.

Typical services provided by these professionals are:

Inspection of bedding, upholstery, and carpet fibers to locate breeding zones.
Application of regulated acaricides that target mite populations while minimizing risk to occupants.
Installation of humidity control devices, such as dehumidifiers, to create an environment unsuitable for mite survival.
Guidance on laundering practices, including temperature specifications that kill residual mites and eggs.
Follow‑up visits to verify treatment success and adjust measures if necessary.

Choosing a certified specialist ensures compliance with safety standards, access to professional‑grade products, and documentation of the eradication process. The combination of chemical treatment, environmental modification, and client education delivers a comprehensive solution that reduces allergen exposure and prevents re‑infestation.

Long-Term Prevention and Maintenance

Creating a Mite-Unfriendly Environment

Decluttering and Simplifying

Removing dust mites begins with reducing the amount of material that can harbor them. Decluttering eliminates unnecessary textiles, stuffed toys, and decorative items that collect skin flakes and moisture, creating a less favorable environment for the pests.

Key actions for a streamlined living space include:

Discard or donate excess bedding, curtains, and upholstery that are rarely used.
Store seasonal clothing in airtight containers, away from the bedroom and living areas.
Replace heavy rugs with hard‑floor surfaces where possible; clean any remaining rugs regularly with a high‑efficiency vacuum.
Keep shelves clear; avoid stacking books, magazines, or papers on the floor.
Remove decorative pillows, plush toys, and fabric wall hangings that are not essential.

A minimalist layout improves airflow and simplifies cleaning routines. With fewer items to dust, vacuum, and wash, regular maintenance becomes quicker and more thorough, directly limiting the conditions that allow dust mites to thrive.

Choosing Mite-Resistant Materials

Choosing materials that resist dust mites reduces allergen buildup and simplifies control measures. Hard, non‑porous surfaces limit the micro‑environments where mites thrive, while tightly woven fabrics hinder their movement and reproduction.

Flooring: sealed hardwood, ceramic tile, vinyl plank, polished concrete.
Bedding: allergen‑proof mattress encasements, high‑thread‑count cotton or polyester blends, latex foam.
Upholstery: microfiber, leather, synthetic blends with tight weave; avoid low‑pile fabrics.
Curtains and blinds: vinyl blinds, polyester curtains with blackout lining; washable, low‑pile drapes.
Wall coverings: washable paint, smooth plaster, vinyl wallpaper.

Effective selection follows three criteria. First, low moisture absorption prevents the humidity levels mites require. Second, smooth, impermeable surfaces provide no crevices for egg deposition. Third, ease of cleaning ensures regular removal of debris and allergens.

When replacing or upgrading, prioritize sealed surfaces and replace existing textiles with the listed options. Maintain low indoor humidity (40‑50 % relative humidity) and clean with a HEPA‑filtered vacuum to preserve the protective qualities of the chosen materials.

Ongoing Monitoring

Identifying Problem Areas

Identifying the areas where dust‑mite populations thrive is the first step in any eradication effort. Concentrated infestations create the highest exposure risk, so pinpointing them allows targeted treatment and efficient use of resources.

Bedding surfaces (sheets, pillowcases, blankets)
Mattress and box‑spring seams
Upholstered furniture cushions and crevices
Carpets and rug underlays
Heavy curtains and draperies
Wall‑to‑floor baseboards and molding
HVAC vents and air‑filter housings
Soft‑toy collections and stuffed animals

Visual inspection reveals obvious signs such as clumped dust, discoloration, or skin debris. For less apparent hotspots, employ allergen test kits that detect mite proteins on surfaces, or measure relative humidity; levels above 50 % often correlate with active colonies.

Confirmatory techniques include:

Tape lift: press clear adhesive tape to the surface, then examine under a microscope for mite bodies or fecal pellets.
Vacuum sampling: collect settled dust in a sealed bag, then analyze the sample in a lab for mite counts.
Moisture probe: record humidity in suspected zones to identify environments that sustain mite development.

Prioritize treatment in locations with the highest mite counts and the greatest human contact. Eliminating these problem areas reduces overall allergen load and accelerates the success of subsequent control measures.

Scheduling Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential for controlling dust mite populations in residential environments. Consistent cleaning schedules reduce humidity, remove food sources, and limit breeding sites.

A weekly routine should include:

Vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstery with a HEPA‑filter vacuum.
Washing bedding, pillowcases, and washable blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C).
Dusting hard surfaces using a damp cloth to prevent aerosolized particles.
Inspecting and cleaning air‑conditioning and heating filters.

Monthly tasks reinforce weekly efforts:

Steam‑cleaning carpets and upholstered furniture to reach deep layers where mites reside.
Treating mattresses and box springs with a low‑temperature steam or approved acaricide.
Checking and adjusting indoor humidity, aiming for levels below 50 % with a hygrometer and dehumidifier if necessary.
Cleaning behind appliances, under furniture, and in storage areas where dust accumulates.

Seasonal deep cleaning addresses periods of increased mite activity:

Performing a comprehensive wash of curtains, drapes, and removable wall coverings.
Rotating and flipping mattresses, then vacuuming both sides.
Replacing or laundering pet bedding and toys.
Conducting a thorough inspection of window seals and vents, sealing gaps that allow moisture ingress.

Adhering to this structured maintenance schedule minimizes dust mite habitats, lowers allergen exposure, and supports a healthier indoor environment.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Pet Management

Pets contribute significantly to indoor allergen loads, including dust mite populations. Managing animals reduces the environment that supports these arthropods and lowers exposure for occupants.

Regular grooming removes loose fur and skin flakes that serve as food for mites. Bathe dogs and cats weekly with hypoallergenic shampoo; brush coats daily to capture debris before it settles on surfaces. Clean grooming tools after each use to prevent cross‑contamination.

Maintain pet sleeping areas. Wash pet beds, blankets, and cushions in hot water (minimum 130 °F) weekly. Replace fabric covers with allergen‑impermeable encasements and launder them regularly. Keep pet beds off upholstered furniture and out of bedrooms where dust mite control is critical.

Control pet movement within the home. Restrict access to carpeted rooms, especially during high‑allergy seasons. Use washable floor mats at entry points to trap particles brought in on paws. Vacuum floors and upholstery with a HEPA‑rated vacuum at least twice weekly; empty the canister outdoors to avoid re‑aerosolization.

Implement environmental measures that benefit both pets and mite reduction. Employ a high‑efficiency air purifier in living spaces, maintain indoor humidity below 50 % with a dehumidifier, and ensure adequate ventilation. These steps limit mite reproduction while keeping pets comfortable.

Key pet‑focused actions

Bathe and brush animals weekly.
Launder pet bedding in hot water every 7 days.
Use allergen‑proof covers on pet beds and furniture.
Limit pet access to carpeted and bedroom areas.
Vacuum with HEPA filtration twice per week.
Install air purifiers and dehumidifiers to keep humidity low.

Personal Hygiene Practices

Personal hygiene directly influences the presence of house dust mites because the insects feed on human skin flakes and bodily secretions. Maintaining clean skin and clothing reduces the food source that supports mite colonies.

Shower daily with warm water; remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
Launder underwear, socks, and sleepwear at least once a week in water of 60 °C (140 °F) or higher.
Change and wash pillowcases, sheets, and blankets weekly using the same temperature guidelines.
Dry laundry promptly in a dryer on a high‑heat setting to eliminate residual moisture.
Keep nails trimmed to prevent accumulation of skin debris.

Additional personal habits help limit mite proliferation:

Apply moisturizers that do not leave a greasy residue; excess oil can attract mites.
Use fragrance‑free, hypoallergenic soaps to avoid skin irritation that increases shedding.
Wear breathable fabrics such as cotton, which allow sweat to evaporate and discourage mite growth.
Store rarely worn clothing in sealed containers to prevent infestation.

Consistent application of these practices reduces the quantity of organic material available to dust mites, thereby contributing to a lower overall population within the home.