Symptoms affecting airways, eyes, and skin are common, sometimes reaching systemic levels.
This article offers ideas on how to eliminateDermatophagoides pteronyssinusandD.
farinaehouse dust mites and improve the indoor environment of your home.
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Tips for Eliminating House Dust Mites
Dust mites typically live in different kinds of fabric.
They don’t move easily and tend to stay where they grow.
Do Pets Cause House Mites?
Mites often live in bedding because it’s a source of dead skin cells on which they feed.
Even if you buy hypoallergenic mattresses and pillows, encasement may still be important to prevent house mite colonization.
Skin prick tests of sensitivity to house dust mites found 59% were positive forD.
farinaeand 57.6% were positive forD.
Washing with cooler temperatures will remove, but not kill, house mites.
Don’t forget to wash stuffed animals and toys, too.
Some studies have found that more mites were found in bedrooms that are closer to the kitchen.
Dust and Vacuum Often
Dust your home often to improve indoor air quality.
While vacuuming decreases household dust, it may not effectively decrease house mites.
The American Lung Association recommends hard-surfaced flooring when possible.
You also should steam clean carpets and rugs at least once per year.
Clean Hard Surfaces
Mopping hard-surfaces floors often will help to reduce house mite populations.
Wiping down other hard surfaces with a damp washcloth will remove mites.
Don’t forget the kitchen, even though it may not have rugs or upholstered furniture.
Some studies have found high amounts of dust mites in the kitchen.
House Dust Mites and Elevation
Altitude affects humidity in the air, so where you live matters.
Use a Pesticide
Acaracidesare a jot down of pesticide that can be used to eradicate dust mites.
It can be applied to carpets, mattresses, and furniture.
Summary
House dust mites are an important factor in the symptoms of asthma and allergic reactions.
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Updated May 7, 2020.
