Dust mites are small creatures that are commonly found in places such as carpets, upholstered furniture, curtains, and beddings. There are so tiny that it is impossible to see them without a magnifying glass or microscope. They have eight legs and belong to a family of spiders. Dust mites are known to be triggering allergies and asthma throughout the year. Some of the common symptoms of dust mite allergies are sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, cough, watery eyes, nasal congestion, and facial pressure and pain. Asthma, flu-like symptoms, rashes, trouble sleeping, and chest pain are other significant symptoms of dust mite presence at your home.
Here’s a look at the ways to protect your house from dust mite:
Cleaning home at regular intervals
The more you keep your house clean, the less likely it is to gather dust mites. It is recommended to vacuum the furniture, curtains, beddings, and carpet once in a week or 10 days. Vacuuming helps in capturing even the smallest particles that spoil your indoor air quality. Dust your home and wipe it with a damp towel. Also, try to get rid of the clutter especially the places where dust collects.
Getting an air-filter for home
You should speak with an HVAC technician so that he can let you know about the best air filter to keep the dust mites at bay. Invest in a quality air purifier as a sub-standard or cheap quality air filter will trap only large particles. You should also check the air filter every 25 to 30 days and change it regularly. Hold the filter up in the light. If the light fails to pass easily from the filter, you need to clean or replace it.
Taking care of pillows and mattresses
The allergies caused by dust mites are commonly experienced by people while sleeping as there may be high levels of dust mites in your blankets, bed, and pillows. It is recommended to cover the mattresses and pillows with allergen-proof covers. The fabric in such covers is tightly woven which prevents the dust from getting in. These covers will help in improving your allergic condition and let you have a good night’s sleep. Also, make sure you wash the bedding items once in a while with hot water and dry them under the warm sun.
Humidity at home
One of the main reasons for dust mite and allergies aggravating in summer is observed as these tiny creatures thrive in humid places. If there is more humidity at your place, it can attract pests, mold, mildew, and dust mites. Air-conditioners help in drying out the air inside your home, it is better to invest in a whole-home dehumidifier so that you can keep the humidity at bay throughout the years. One of the significant benefits of a dehumidifier is that it helps in maintaining the ideal humidity level throughout the year. It also observes the daily humidity levels and removes or adds moisture as required.
Getting an air purifier for your home
Even if you have an air-filter at your home, you should still invest in an air purifier. In the recent past, the air purification technology has evolved. You must speak with professionals to get an idea of the best air purifiers available in the market. They not just purify your air but also help in removing the contaminants from your home.
Cleaning the air duct
It has been stated by experts that one should get their air ducts inspected and cleaned by professionals every few years as it can help in improving the air quality of your home. It will also help in improving the HVAC performance and making your home cleaner. Thus, if you have not checked the air ducts in a while, it is time you do it immediately.
Ensure proper ventilation
Having a tight home may be ideal for saving energy but is vulnerable to poor quality of indoor air. If there is a lack of ventilation at your home, the stale air will remain inside of the home and make things worse. Make sure you keep the door and windows on opposite sides open so that there is proper ventilation.
You can keep your home dust-mite free by following the above-mentioned measures. These tips will help in combating the negative effects of impure indoor air quality. It is all the more important if you are suffering from asthma or allergies.
Many people are allergic to dust mites. What do you recommend?
Sorry for the late reply. To reduce allergies, we recommend maintaining indoor air quality as the first element. The humidity of indoor air should not be too high, and there should not be many pollution particles in the air. Also, if you have pets in your house, reduce the dander that your pets shed. During the flowering period, try not to go out and close doors and windows to prevent pollen from entering the room. Therefore, if you or your family members are prone to allergies, installing a dehumidifier and air purifier will significantly help you and your family’s health.
Sorry for the late reply. Dust mites like dark, damp environments. Therefore, to reduce dust mites, keep the indoor environment clean and the air humidity is not too high. Bedding is a breeding ground for dust mites, so be sure to wash it regularly with hot water, and then be sure to dry it thoroughly. A good dehumidifier and air purifier can significantly improve the indoor environment and reduce mold, dust mites, and bacteria production.