How can household dust mites be fought in dust? - briefly
Regular vacuuming with a HEPA‑rated machine, washing bedding at ≥60 °C, and keeping indoor humidity below 50 % dramatically reduce dust mite numbers in household dust. Employ allergen‑proof covers on pillows and mattresses to prevent re‑infestation.
How can household dust mites be fought in dust? - in detail
Dust mites proliferate in indoor dust where they feed on shed skin cells and reproduce rapidly under warm, humid conditions. Reducing their numbers requires a combination of environmental regulation, physical removal, and targeted treatments.
Maintain indoor climate below 50 % relative humidity and keep temperature around 68–70 °F (20–21 °C). Use dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning to achieve these levels, as moisture above the threshold accelerates mite development.
Eliminate dust reservoirs through regular cleaning:
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and curtains at least once a week with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; empty the canister into a sealed bag outside the home.
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and removable covers in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) for a minimum of 10 minutes; dry on high heat.
- Damp‑wipe hard surfaces, baseboards, and shelves to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
- Replace heavy drapes with washable blinds or lightweight fabrics that can be cleaned frequently.
Apply acaricidal agents where mechanical methods are insufficient:
- Use products containing benzyl benzoate, permethrin, or pyrethrins according to label directions; treat carpets, mattresses, and upholstered items.
- Sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth on carpets and leave for several hours before vacuuming; the abrasive particles damage mite exoskeletons.
Introduce barriers that limit exposure:
- Encase mattresses, box springs, and pillows in allergen‑tight covers that prevent mites from penetrating the sleeping surface.
- Install air purifiers with HEPA filters to capture airborne dust particles and reduce overall mite load.
- Remove or reduce carpeted areas in favor of hard flooring, which collects less dust and is easier to clean.
Combine these strategies consistently; each measure alone offers limited impact, but together they produce a substantial decline in dust‑mite populations and associated allergen levels.