How can bed mites be removed from the house? - briefly
Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and upholstery thoroughly, then wash bedding in water above 130 °F and dry on high heat. Apply an approved acaricide or diatomaceous earth to cracks, seams, and other hiding places to eliminate remaining mites.
How can bed mites be removed from the house? - in detail
Bed mites thrive in warm, humid environments where they feed on skin flakes and sweat. Effective eradication requires a systematic approach that targets all potential habitats.
Begin by reducing humidity levels. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain indoor relative humidity below 50 %. This creates an unfavorable climate for mite development.
Remove infested textiles. Strip bedding, pillowcases, mattress covers, curtains, and upholstered furniture covers. Wash each item in water heated to at least 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be placed in sealed plastic bags for two weeks, a period long enough for mites to die without food.
Vacuum all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstered surfaces with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. Empty the canister or bag into a sealed container and discard it immediately. Pay special attention to seams, crevices, and the undersides of furniture where mites hide.
Apply a suitable acaricide. Choose a product labeled for dust mite control, following manufacturer instructions for concentration and contact time. Treat mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture with a fine mist, allowing the surface to dry completely before re‑covering.
Encapsulate mattresses and pillows with allergen‑proof covers that have a pore size of 10 µm or less. These barriers prevent mites from colonizing the sleeping surface and allow existing populations to die off without access to food.
Seal cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, and baseboards. Use caulk or weatherstripping to eliminate entry points for dust and humidity, reducing the likelihood of re‑infestation.
If the infestation persists after these measures, consult a licensed pest‑management professional. They can perform a thorough inspection, identify hidden colonies, and apply targeted treatments such as fogging or residual sprays.
Maintain the environment by regularly laundering bedding, vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and keeping indoor humidity low. Consistent upkeep prevents mite populations from rebuilding and sustains a mite‑free household.