What is a dust mite and how can it be fought? - briefly
Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that thrive in household dust, feeding on shed human skin cells. Effective control includes frequent vacuuming with HEPA filtration, washing bedding at ≥ 60 °C, maintaining indoor humidity below 50 %, and encasing mattresses and pillows in allergen‑proof covers.
What is a dust mite and how can it be fought? - in detail
Dust mites are microscopic arthropods belonging to the family Pyroglyphidae. They thrive in warm, humid environments and feed primarily on desquamated human skin cells. Typical habitats include mattresses, pillows, upholstered furniture, carpets, and curtains, where they form colonies that can reach several thousand individuals per square meter.
Health implications arise from allergic reactions to mite feces and body fragments. Symptoms range from sneezing and nasal congestion to asthma exacerbations. Sensitisation occurs after prolonged exposure, making effective control essential for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.
Control strategies focus on reducing food sources, moisture, and habitat suitability:
- Lower indoor relative humidity to 40 % or below using dehumidifiers or ventilation.
- Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics weekly in water at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher.
- Use allergen‑impermeable encasements for mattresses and pillows, sealing seams securely.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered surfaces with a HEPA‑filter equipped machine at least twice a week.
- Remove or replace heavily infested carpets and heavy draperies where cleaning is impractical.
- Apply acaricidal powders or sprays containing benzyl benzoate, tetramethrin, or neem oil, following manufacturer instructions and ensuring adequate ventilation.
- Incorporate natural desiccants such as silica gel packets in storage boxes to inhibit mite survival.
Professional pest‑management services may be required for severe infestations, employing advanced treatments like steam cleaning or fogging with approved acaricides. Regular monitoring, through adhesive traps or dust‑mite test kits, helps assess the effectiveness of interventions and guides adjustments to the control regimen.