How to Get Rid of Dust Mites

Dust mites are the bane of many people’s lives, but most especially those with asthma or other breathing issues. Dust mites are minute creatures which thrive off the dust and debris which is left behind by most human’s daily lives. Much of what forms the diet of the average dust mite is rather horrible to contemplate; they eat the tiny flakes of skin which are shed by humans and left behind on many surfaces but most especially within soft furnishings, bedding, rugs and soft toys. Because dust mites can cause extreme irritation to those who have breathing problems already, it is very important that you deal with the issue should it arise in your home.

If you do find that you have to get rid of dust mites then the first thing to do is to target each room as a separate entity; this helps you to ensure that you do not miss one single item in your battle against dust mites.

Tackle the problem room by room.

Begin in the bedroom by removing all of the bedding and washing it on the hottest wash possible. The carpets are most effectively removed by using a commercial carpet cleaner which again is set to the hottest possible setting. Carpet cleaners may be hired relatively cheaply from large superstores.

With soft toys and cushions, a two pronged attack is necessary as they are thick and dust mites may be harboured deep within the body of them. Use a vacuum cleaner to thoroughly remove as much dust and mites as possible and then wash the items on a very hot setting. Hang them out to dry and then vacuum then once more, before washing them once more again. This may seem over the top but it is the only way to be certain that any dust or mites are really removed.

You will also need to be careful when you dispose of the bag from the vacuum cleaner; if you are planning on an attack of the entire house, you should change the bag of the vacuum cleaner outdoors and often. Do not do it indoors or you will be at risk of releasing the mites again.

As with the bedroom, you will also need to use a commercial carpet cleaner on the other carpets in your home. If possible, clean them twice. Heavy curtains and drapes are renowned for harbouring dust mites and these should be sent away to be cleaned professionally. If your curtains and drapes are made of cotton and are lightweight then you will be able to clean them in your own washing machine on a very hot setting. Again, do this twice.

All hard surfaces such as laminate and hardwood floors should be cleaned with hot water, ensuring that you reach under all furniture so that you get to every dusty spot. Cleaning a house to free it from dust mites is a long process, but it is best to be extremely thorough so that they don’t keep coming back.

You should clean soft toys and cushions on a weekly basis if you have an asthma sufferer in the house, as this is the only true way to avoid the infestation getting a grip on your home.

Top image by Gilles San Martin.