Readers Digest
Magazine subscription Podcast
HomeHealthHealth Conditions

How to deal with dust mites

BY READERS DIGEST

1st Jan 2015 Health Conditions

How to deal with dust mites

Dust mites–minute flesh-eating insects too small to be seen by the naked eye–inhabit your carpets, curtains and bedding. Their faeces can be a significant cause of allergies. The best way to deal with dust mites is to starve them of the dust they eat–which is mostly made up of old skin cells.

Actions you can take around the home

 

Repel Allergens

Cover your mattress, bed base and pillows with covers made specifically to repel allergens. These covers are sold in most department stores.

Vacuum Efficiently

Vacuum your carpets regularly. Buy a vacuum cleaner for dust mites that uses a double bag and a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, which filters out microscopic allergens. If you have a wood or tile floor underneath your carpets, think about getting rid of the carpets altogether. Wear a mask while vacuuming, and then leave the house for a few hours afterwards, if possible.

Regular Washes

Change your sheets once a week and wash them in very hot water – at least 60ºC – to kill the mites.

Bye-Bye Clutter

Clear away clutter, which can gather dust and harbour dust mites. Remove any soft toys from the bed.

Keep the Air Dry

If you don't have a dehumidifier, it's a good idea to get one. Keeping the air in your home dry will significantly reduce the population of dust mites, which die when humidity levels fall below 45 per cent.

Mouldy Bathrooms

Laundries and bathrooms are havens for moulds, mildew and dust mites, because of damp and humid conditions. Wipe away any obvious mould using a solution of diluted bleach (make sure the room is adequately ventilated).

Keep up with the top stories from Reader’s Digest by subscribing to our weekly newsletter.

 

Loading up next...
Stories by email|Subscription
Readers Digest

Launched in 1922, Reader's Digest has built 100 years of trust with a loyal audience and has become the largest circulating magazine in the world

Readers Digest
Reader’s Digest is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards, please contact 0203 289 0940. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit ipso.co.uk