Eliminating Dust Mites

What are dust mites and why should you be concerned about eliminating them? Many people including infant children can develop allergies, asthma, and/or eczema symptoms from their presence. They are one of the most common causes of perennial allergic rhinitis. An allergy from them develops as a response to this microscopic organism. It lives in the dust that is found in all dwellings and workplaces and it feeds on human skin, pollen, fungi, bacteria, and animal dander.

To view the little critter you need to look under a microscope because they are very tiny. A gram of house particles can contain between 100 to 500 of them. They also leave their droppings behind them as they feed on proteins found within the home and other environments. Their droppings are a known allergen. When their droppings come in contact with the skin or are inhaled they may cause allergic reactions.

If you live in an area where there are high levels of humidity you have them in your home. The summer temperatures allow them to thrive. Because their waste is extremely tiny and light air filtration can be a effective way to control their droppings from staying airborne. This brings us to the question of what is the best way to control these invasive critters.

It is doubtful that an environment will be completely free from these near invisible critters. However there are wonderful new air filtration systems with effective air filters to help in getting the their population under control. There are also other steps you can take such as encasing your mattresses, box springs, and pillows in non-allergenic, plastic zippered encasings. It is wise to avoid down and feather bedding materials especially in warm and humid climates. When you wash your sheets and blankets do so frequently and in hot water that is over 159 degrees Fahrenheit.

Also, over stuffed upholstered furniture is not the best choice so avoid it when possible. When buying carpet for you home stay away from carpet with a high pile. There are many wonderful low pile carpets to choose from that will serve you better. Be sure and also pay attention to your scatter rugs too. It is wise to clean surfaces and vacuum twice a week using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Also pay attention to underneath your bed as this is a place that is easily missed. You will also need to change your HEPA filter around every 6 months to keep your air filtration system working effectively (or check with your cleaners manufacturer). It is also wise to discourage your pets from sleeping in the same area as you do because these minute pests are attracted to pet dander and the proteins pets leave behind.

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