How to treat bedding for mites? - briefly
Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in water at least 60 °C (140 °F) and tumble‑dry on the hottest setting; then vacuum the mattress and encase it in a dust‑mite‑impermeable cover. If infestation persists, apply an EPA‑registered acaricide according to label directions.
How to treat bedding for mites? - in detail
Treat bedding that harbors mites with a systematic approach that combines cleaning, environmental control, and preventive measures.
First, remove all linens, pillowcases, mattress covers, and blankets. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag before transport to the laundry area to prevent re‑contamination.
Cleaning process
- Wash at the highest temperature the fabric can tolerate, ideally 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills most mite species and their eggs.
- Add a laundry disinfectant containing an approved acaricide or a small amount of bleach (5 % solution) to enhance mortality.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry in a tumble dryer on a hot setting (≥ 70 °C) for a minimum of 10 minutes. If a dryer is unavailable, expose items to direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet radiation and heat are lethal to mites.
Mattress and pillow treatment
- Vacuum the entire surface with a HEPA‑rated vacuum cleaner, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Empty the vacuum bag or container into a sealed bag and discard it.
- Apply a spray‑on acaricide formulated for bedding, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Ensure even coverage by spraying from a distance of 20–30 cm.
- Cover the mattress and pillows with encasements that are certified allergen‑proof (e.g., zippered, impermeable fabrics). These barriers prevent surviving mites from re‑infesting the interior.
Environmental control
- Lower indoor humidity to below 50 % using dehumidifiers or proper ventilation; most mites require higher moisture levels to thrive.
- Maintain room temperature between 18–22 °C (64–72 °F); extreme temperatures discourage reproduction.
- Replace or clean carpeted areas near the bed, as they can serve as reservoirs for mites.
- Regularly launder bedding weekly using the same high‑temperature protocol.
Preventive routine
- Rotate mattresses every six months to expose all surfaces to cleaning.
- Inspect bedding for signs of mite activity (tiny specks, skin irritation) after each wash cycle.
- Use dust‑mite‑proof covers on all sleep surfaces and replace them annually.
By adhering to these steps—thorough washing, targeted chemical treatment, humidity management, and ongoing prevention—bedding can be rendered free of mite infestations and remain inhospitable to future colonization.