How to destroy house dust mites? - briefly
Wash bedding, curtains, and other washable fabrics in water above 60 °C (140 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat; vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture frequently with a HEPA‑rated cleaner while keeping indoor humidity under 50 %. Apply an approved acaricide spray or dust diatomaceous earth on hard surfaces for extra eradication.
How to destroy house dust mites? - in detail
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments where skin flakes accumulate. Effective eradication requires a combination of mechanical, climatic, and chemical actions.
Regular cleaning removes the food source and reduces populations.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture with a HEPA‑rated filter at least once weekly.
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and curtains in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Use a steam cleaner on mattresses, sofas, and hard flooring; steam above 100 °C (212 °F) kills mites instantly.
Controlling indoor climate deprives mites of optimal conditions.
- Keep relative humidity below 50 % by employing dehumidifiers or air‑conditioners.
- Maintain indoor temperature between 18–20 °C (64–68 °F); higher temperatures accelerate mite mortality.
- Increase ventilation to disperse stale air and lower moisture buildup.
Targeted chemical agents provide rapid knock‑down.
- Apply acaricide sprays containing benzyl benzoate, permethrin, or pyrethrins according to label instructions; repeat after two weeks to cover emerging life stages.
- Use dust‑mite powders with silica gel or diatomaceous earth; sprinkle on carpets and leave for 24 hours before vacuuming.
- Essential oils such as tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender exhibit limited toxicity; dilute to 5 % and apply to bedding for supplemental control, recognizing that scientific support is modest.
Preventive practices sustain low mite counts.
- Encase mattresses and pillows in allergen‑tight covers that are zip‑sealed.
- Remove wall‑to‑wall carpeting in favor of hard‑surface flooring where feasible.
- Store soft toys and decorative fabrics in sealed containers or wash them regularly.
- Replace old, heavily soiled rugs with new, washable alternatives.
Implementing these steps in a coordinated schedule—weekly cleaning, humidity monitoring, periodic chemical treatment, and ongoing prevention—produces a substantial and lasting reduction in dust‑mite infestations.