How to get rid of house dust mites? - briefly
Reduce indoor humidity below 50 % and launder all bedding weekly in water of at least 130 °F. Vacuum with a HEPA‑rated cleaner, encase mattresses and pillows in allergen‑proof covers, and eliminate or regularly deep‑clean carpets.
How to get rid of house dust mites? - in detail
Eliminate indoor dust mites by combining environmental control, thorough cleaning, and targeted treatments.
Maintain relative humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning; low moisture limits mite reproduction. Install a hygrometer in each main room to monitor levels and adjust ventilation accordingly.
Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery weekly in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. If a dryer is unavailable, steam‑clean fabrics for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Encase mattresses, pillows, and box springs in allergen‑proof covers with a pore size of 10 µm or less. Verify that seams are sealed to prevent mite ingress.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture daily using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; discard the bag or clean the canister immediately after each use to avoid recontamination.
Apply acaricide powders or sprays that contain benzyl benzoate, tetramethrin, or silica gel, following manufacturer instructions for concentration and exposure time. Repeat applications every two weeks during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Introduce HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and living areas; select units with a minimum airflow of 200 cubic feet per minute and replace filters every three months.
Remove clutter that can harbor dust, such as stuffed toys, excess magazines, and decorative fabrics. Store items in sealed plastic containers if they must be retained.
Consider professional heat treatment for carpets and large area rugs: raise surface temperature to 55 °C (131 °F) for at least 30 minutes, a level proven to kill over 99 % of mites.
Finally, establish a routine inspection schedule: check humidity, verify encasements, and assess cleaning effectiveness monthly. Consistent adherence to these measures drastically reduces mite populations and mitigates associated allergic reactions.