How to get rid of mites on pillows? - briefly
Wash pillows at 60 °C and dry on high heat to eliminate «dust mites». Use allergen‑proof encasings and weekly HEPA‑vacuuming to prevent reinfestation.
How to get rid of mites on pillows? - in detail
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on skin flakes that accumulate in pillow fillings. Their presence can trigger allergic reactions, asthma, and skin irritation; therefore, effective eradication is essential for a healthy sleeping surface.
To eliminate dust mites from pillows, follow a systematic approach:
- Wash pillowcases and pillow covers weekly in water at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. High temperature kills both mites and their eggs.
- If pillows themselves are machine‑washable, use the same temperature setting. For non‑washable pillows, place them in a large plastic bag and freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) for 24 hours; freezing destroys mites and eggs.
- After washing, tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Thorough drying prevents re‑colonisation.
- Vacuum pillows with a HEPA‑rated vacuum cleaner, using an upholstery attachment, to remove residual debris and dormant mites.
- Encase pillows in allergen‑proof covers made of tightly woven fabric (pore size ≤ 10 µm). Ensure covers are sealed with a zippered closure and laundered regularly.
- Maintain indoor humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning. Low humidity inhibits mite reproduction.
- Apply a dilute solution of 0.5 % benzyl benzoate or 0.1 % permethrin to pillow surfaces, following manufacturer instructions, for chemical control when infestations persist.
- Employ natural agents such as eucalyptus oil (5 % v/v) or tea tree oil (2 % v/v) as a spray, allowing the pillow to air‑dry; both oils possess acaricidal properties.
- Replace pillows every 2–3 years, especially if they are made of down or feather filling, which retain moisture more readily.
Regular maintenance, combining thermal treatment, barrier protection, humidity management, and targeted acaricidal measures, ensures long‑term reduction of dust mite populations in pillows.