How to get rid of dust mites in an apartment at home? - briefly
Wash bedding, curtains, and washable fabrics at ≥ 60 °C weekly, vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA‑filter cleaner, and maintain indoor humidity below 50 % using a dehumidifier or adequate ventilation. Encase mattresses and pillows in allergen‑tight covers to block re‑infestation.
How to get rid of dust mites in an apartment at home? - in detail
Dust mites thrive in environments where humidity exceeds 50 % and where organic debris accumulates. Reducing moisture and removing food sources are the first actions to curb their population.
- Maintain indoor relative humidity between 30 % and 45 % using dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning.
- Keep indoor temperature below 75 °F (24 °C) when possible; cooler conditions slow mite reproduction.
Regular cleaning disrupts the life cycle.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture daily with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; empty the canister immediately into a sealed bag.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable covers weekly in water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) for 30 minutes; tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 15 minutes.
- Steam‑clean carpets and upholstery using a device that reaches 212 °F (100 °C); steam penetrates fabrics and kills mites on contact.
Bedding and soft furnishings require specific treatment.
- Encase mattresses, box springs, and pillows in allergen‑proof covers that are zip‑sealed; replace covers annually.
- Use low‑pile or tightly woven curtains; consider replacing heavy drapes with washable blinds.
- Remove or limit plush toys, especially in bedrooms; wash any retained items at high temperature.
Chemical and natural acaricides provide additional control.
- Apply EPA‑registered dust‑mite sprays to carpets, upholstered furniture, and cracks in baseboards; follow label instructions for concentration and re‑application intervals.
- Distribute diatomaceous earth thinly across carpeted areas; leave for 24 hours before vacuuming to desiccate mites.
- Introduce essential‑oil blends containing eucalyptus, tea‑tree, or lavender in a diffuser; evidence indicates mild repellent effects, though not a sole solution.
Sustained prevention relies on routine practices.
- Conduct a monthly inspection of humidity levels and adjust dehumidifier settings accordingly.
- Schedule quarterly deep‑cleaning sessions that include steam treatment of all floor coverings.
- Replace worn or heavily soiled carpets and upholstered pieces that cannot be effectively cleaned.
By controlling moisture, maintaining rigorous cleaning schedules, treating textiles, and applying targeted acaricides, a residential unit can achieve a substantial reduction in dust‑mite presence. Continuous adherence to these measures prevents re‑infestation and minimizes allergen exposure.