How to get rid of indoor mites at home? - briefly
Regularly vacuum carpets and upholstery with a HEPA filter, wash all bedding in hot water weekly, and keep indoor humidity below 50 % by using a dehumidifier. Seal cracks, eliminate dust‑collecting clutter, and fit mite‑proof covers on pillows and mattresses.
How to get rid of indoor mites at home? - in detail
Indoor dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on human skin flakes. Effective control requires a combination of environmental adjustments, regular cleaning, and targeted treatments.
Reduce humidity to below 50 % by using dehumidifiers, air‑conditioners, or ventilation fans. Keep indoor temperature around 20 °C (68 °F) to discourage mite reproduction.
Maintain fabrics and surfaces:
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and curtains weekly in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 20 minutes.
- Dry cleaned items in a dryer on high heat or expose them to direct sunlight for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Replace mattress and pillow covers with allergen‑impermeable encasements; seal all seams.
Clean floors and upholstered furniture:
- Vacuum carpets and rugs with a HEPA‑filter vacuum cleaner at least twice a week; empty the canister immediately into a sealed bag.
- Steam‑clean hard floors and upholstery; steam temperatures above 100 °C (212 °F) kill mites and their eggs.
- Use a damp mop on hard surfaces; avoid dry sweeping that can aerosolize allergens.
Apply acaricidal agents where necessary:
- Sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth on carpets, leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
- Use EPA‑registered mite sprays according to label instructions; repeat applications after two weeks to target emerging populations.
Limit food sources:
- Remove pet hair and dander by grooming animals daily and cleaning pet bedding weekly.
- Keep food stored in sealed containers; clean crumbs promptly.
Monitor progress:
- Place sticky mite traps in bedrooms and living areas; count captured specimens weekly to assess effectiveness.
- Adjust humidity control and cleaning frequency based on trap results.
By integrating humidity management, rigorous laundering, thorough vacuuming, and selective acaricide use, indoor mite populations can be reduced to minimal levels, decreasing allergen exposure and improving indoor air quality.