How to help get rid of dust mites and reduce airborne allergens

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What are dust mites?

Dust mites are very small insect-like pests and are too small for people to see. They thrive in warm, humid areas and feed on dead human and animal skin cells.

Allergies to dust mites are typically caused by inhaling proteins that come from their feces, urine or decaying bodies. Since these creatures are virtually impossible to see with the naked eye, the only sign that someone may have dust mites in their home is if they notice allergic reactions.

Can people get rid of dust mites?

Dust mites can get deep into upholstery, bedding and even stuffed animals. While it is impossible to completely get rid of dust mites, there are methods people can use to reduce the number of dust mites in their homes. This can help reduce allergy symptoms for people who are allergic to dust mites.

8 tips to help manage dust mites in the home

To manage a dust mite allergy, it’s best to take measures to help reduce the dust mite population in one’s home. Here are some simple ways to help reduce exposure:

Control humidity levels

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid places and are not usually found in dry climates. In fact, they die when the humidity falls below 50 percent. A device called a hygrometer can measure the humidity level in the home. Air conditioning and dehumidifiers can help draw moisture out of the air.

Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting

Opt for hard flooring when possible. Throw rugs that can be washed are preferable to wall-to-wall carpeting, which can often harbor dust mites. Consider avoiding heavy fabric curtains as well. If a home does have carpets, use a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter weekly, and make sure to clean hard floors often with a damp (not wet) mop.

Wash bedding in hot water once a week

Use water that is at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter for all bedding at least once a week.

Cover mattresses and pillows

Enclose pillows and mattresses in allergen covers, removable zippered covers made to help block allergens. They’re typically designed to be washable and keep dust mites out by providing a barrier these allergy culprits can’t penetrate.

Cut the clutter

Knick-knacks and surfaces, such as tables and shelves, are known to gather dust. Dust them regularly with a damp cloth or microfiber cloth, which can trap and lock in dust rather than stir it up like a feather duster. Or better yet, reduce the clutter where dust mites might live altogether.

Wear a mask

Anyone who’s allergic to dust mites should consider wearing an face mask while vacuuming. It is best to avoid entering the vacuumed area for 20 minutes after cleaning to allow dust and allergens from the air to settle. If someone else in the home is allergic, try to clean when they will be out of the house.

Use HEPA air filters

HEPA air filters can help remove a certain number of allergens (including dust mites) from the air. Be sure to change the filter every three months.

Control pet dander

Even if someone isn’t allergic to cats and dogs, dust mites can feed on the dead skin (known as dander) shed from pets. Use the same measures described above to help eliminate animal dander from floors, bedding and upholstery if pets are in the home. Better to be over vigilant.

What products may help with dust mite allergies?

People should speak with a health care provider first, but there are a number of over-the-counter (OTC) medications that may help reduce dust mite allergy symptoms. Always review the individual product labels for intended use, directions and safety information, and speak with a health care provider before starting or stopping any medications.

Some products include the following:

• Antihistamines. These medications can help with sneezing, itching in the nose and eyes as well as runny nose and sometimes a little nasal stuffiness. Antihistamines come in eye drop, liquid, nasal spray and tablet forms.
• Decongestants for sinus and congestion symptom relief. These OTC medications are available in pill and liquid form as well as nasal sprays. Decongestant products help shrink the lining of the nasal passages and relieve stuffiness. (Some decongestants may have serious side effects in people with high blood pressure or other health conditions, so check with a health care provider before taking them.) Some decongestant nasal drops and sprays can only be used for a few days at a time, so be sure to read and follow the directions carefully.
• Nasal sprays. Some OTC nasal sprays can help manage allergy symptoms. Those with cromolyn sodium block the release of certain chemicals, including histamine and leukotrienes, that cause allergy symptoms. Other types of nasal sprays can contain corticosteroids and work by reducing swelling in the nose and blocking allergic reactions.