How to get rid of house dust mites in the bed? - briefly
Launder all sheets, pillowcases and blankets weekly in water at least 60 °C, and encase the mattress and pillows in dust‑mite‑proof covers. Keep bedroom humidity below 50 %, vacuum the mattress and surrounding area regularly, and remove carpeting near the bed.
How to get rid of house dust mites in the bed? - in detail
Eliminate dust mites from your sleeping area by combining physical removal, environmental control, and regular maintenance.
First, strip the bed of all textiles. Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. If the fabric cannot endure such temperatures, use a dryer on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Second, encase the mattress and pillows in allergen‑proof covers that are zip‑sealed and labeled “dust‑mite impermeable.” These barriers prevent mites from colonizing the interior of the mattress and from escaping into the sleeping surface.
Third, reduce humidity, the primary factor for mite survival. Keep indoor relative humidity below 50 % by:
- Using a dehumidifier in the bedroom.
- Ventilating the room daily for at least 15 minutes.
- Employing air‑conditioning or a hygrometer to monitor moisture levels.
Fourth, remove dust reservoirs:
- Vacuum the mattress, bed frame, and surrounding floor with a HEPA‑rated vacuum cleaner. Perform this task weekly.
- Clean the floor and upholstered furniture with a damp microfiber cloth to avoid aerosolizing particles.
- Replace carpeted flooring near the bed with low‑pile or hard‑surface alternatives.
Fifth, treat the sleeping surface with acaricidal products where appropriate. Apply a dust‑mite spray or powder that contains benzyl benzoate, tetramethrin, or silica gel, following the manufacturer’s instructions and allowing sufficient drying time before re‑making the bed.
Sixth, maintain a routine schedule:
- Change and launder bedding weekly.
- Inspect mattress covers for tears and replace them annually.
- Re‑vacuum the bedroom and launder curtains, blinds, and nearby textiles monthly.
By integrating high‑temperature laundering, impermeable encasements, humidity management, thorough cleaning, targeted acaricide use, and disciplined upkeep, dust mite populations in the bed can be reduced to negligible levels, minimizing allergen exposure and improving sleep quality.