There are so many allergens present both inside and outside of the home. Some are practically impossible for us to avoid, while others are easier to escape on a daily basis. Unfortunately, dust mites are found in every home, and they can cause problems every day for many people.

What are Dust Mites?

Dust mites are so tiny that they are microscopic, so you may not even be aware of them until now. They feed on dead skin cells, which are usually microscopic themselves, and are shed naturally from the human body. This means that dust mites have no trouble finding a food source in every home. Of course their favorite spots are pillows, mattresses, couches, and carpeting. These are the areas where we spend most of our time lounging around and sleeping, thus making them great places for dust mites to snack. It’s pretty disgusting when you think about!

Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergies

There are tens of thousands of dust mites in the home, and their feces contain an allergen that bothers some people. Symptoms of dust mite allergies can range from mild to severe, including itchy eyes, sneezing, and even severe asthma attacks. If you have pets in the home, the symptoms may be more prevalent, as pet dander provides a lot of food for these pesky bugs.

How to Reduce Dust Mites in the Home

Luckily, there are many steps that you can take to reduce the dust mites in your home and make breathing easier for everyone. When it comes to the bedroom, you can use a mattress protector to keep dust mites out. Plastic covers are especially useful for kid’s beds and cribs. You also want to wash bedding and pillows often in hot water, vacuum underneath and around the bed, and dust frequently.

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments, so check your thermostat and keep it set to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler and less damp it is inside of the home, the better. If you live an area with high humidity levels, you may want to purchase a dehumidifier. You can transport it from room to room, and it’s good to use in cool, damp areas like basements.

Air purifiers provide a good way to freshen up the air that is circulating through the house. Consider purchasing one to use, especially if you have a baby in the home, or someone who suffers from allergies or asthma. You also want to keep the air filters clean in your HVAC system, so check and change them regularly. Changing your air filter every 30 days is a good rule of thumb.

If you have carpeting in your home, consider ripping it out and replacing it with hardwood or laminate flooring. Not only is it more stylish in home design today, but it also will significantly reduce the amount of dust mites. Carpeting is one of their favorite places to live, so by removing it, you’re giving them one less place to thrive.

Dust mites are an unfortunate, but very common insect found in homes. They do not pose any major health hazards to most people, but they can be a source of breathing problems for some. If you suspect that you suffer from dust mite allergies, take steps to reduce them and keep your indoor air as clean as possible.