How to minimize dust mites
No one likes to think about microscopic organisms sharing the space they call home, but the fact of the matter is that there are many things taking up residence in your home that you may not be able to see with the naked eye. Dust mites are one of them.
Largely harmless, unless you suffer from allergies, dust mites feed on the breakdown of fibers in pillows, drapes, clothes, linens and other furnishings. Dust is an inevitable part of living, and therefore dust mites are certain to come with the territory. Whie you cannot completely rid your home of dust mites, you can certainly take some steps to reduce their numbers.
- Bedrooms: Bedrooms should not be located in humid areas, such as the basement. Mount beds on bed frames. Put allergens-impermeable casings on pillows, mattresses and box springs. Use pillows, blankets, quilts and bedspreads made of synthetics; avoid down-filled comforters and pillows altogether. Wash bedding at least once a week.
- Floors: Avoid carpeting and thick rugs. If you do have carpets, select area rugs or thin carpets. Vaccum often or buy a machine that reduces dust emissions. Bare surfaces, such as hardwood, linoleum, vinyl, or tile are easy to clean and help prevent dust buildup.
- Furniture: Replace fabric-upholstered furniture, such as sofas and chairs, with leather upholstery or other furniture made of plastics, wood or metal, which won't trap allergens.
- Cleaning: Vaccum bedrooms and mattresses at least once a week, and dust and clean furniture. Take down curtains and wash them once a month.
- Air: Use air cleaners to keep pure air circulating, and cover vents with filters to ensure clean air enters the home. Keep the relative humility in your home low (below 50 percent), because dust mites can't survive is such conditions. Clean and maintain heating and air units at least once a year.
- Around the house: Reduce clutter, books and stuffed animals to prevent the proliferation of dust.
