How To Get Rid Of Dust Mites and Reduce Allergy Symptoms

No one can see dust mites with the naked eye, but the microscopic bugs live wherever humans and animals do. Dust mites thrive on dead skin skills and the average mattress harbors millions of the bugs. Dust mites are everywhere around the home. They are in the carpet, on the furniture and anywhere else dust gathers. For many dust mites are no big deal, but for those with allergies the ever present dust mites can be somewhat of a nightmare.

Dust Mite Allergy Symptoms

Those who suffer from allergies related to dust mites or their feces may experience a stuffed or runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, cough and facial pain or pressure. People with asthma may have trouble breathing when they come in contact with dust mites and infants who live in a house full of dust mites may suffer with eczema.

Decrease Indoor Temperatures and Eliminate Indoor Pollution

Allergy sufferers need to get rid of dust mites so they can reduce or eliminate their irritating symptoms. The first thing someone can do is reduce the humidity levels in their home by improving ventilation and using a dehumidifier. Lowering indoor temperatures to under 70 F or 20 C may also deter dust mites who prefer warm, humid temperatures. Eliminating any type of indoor pollution such as cigarette smoke can also help. The addition of a high quality air purifier should help to reduce allergy symptoms.

Getting rid of carpet and rugs throughout the home is a good idea for those with dust mite allergies. Homeowners should switch to hardwood, laminate, stone or tile which are easy to keep clean. Renters usually do not have this option, and should vacuum all carpeted areas daily to reduce dust mites. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters are particularly useful when it comes to reducing household allergens. Curtains can be replaced with washable wood or metal blinds and if possible soft, fabric furniture should be replaced with leather (or fake leather) furniture which can be wiped down on a regular basis. Changing furnace or air conditioning filters once a month will also reduce household allergens.

Allergen reducing dust covers can be placed on mattresses and pillows. Change bed sheets, blankets and comforters often. Wash all bedding in very hot water (130 F (54 C) to kill the dust mites. Airing out the bed each morning for a few hours before making it will give the bed the chance to dry out completely will reduce the amount of dust mites. Do not keep book cases and stuffed animals in the bedroom as they are major dust collectors. Keeping pets out of the bedroom can also help to reduce dust mites, so severe allergy sufferers might want to consider having their pet sleep in another room of the house.

An all natural dust mite killer can successfully rid a home of dust mites without the use of chemicals. Steam cleaning carpets and furniture may kill dust mites, and there are several companies that offer services that kill dust mites. These companies use steam techniques or ultraviolet light treatments. The treatments work well, but are only a temporary solution. Dust mite levels will build up again, and in a couple of months the dust mite killing treatment needs to be repeated. Most people do not need to spend money on professional services; they will probably be able to reduce home dust mites themselves. When it comes to severe allergies, professional services are a terrific option. If someone suffers from extreme allergy symptoms or has a child who is suffering than it is definitely worth the expense of having continuous professional home dust mite removal treatments done.