How to Eliminate Dust Mites from Your Home

Feeling unusually sneezy? Are your eyes watery, and your nose constantly running? If so, your allergies might be triggered by dust mites, particularly if you have asthma. These tiny creatures, which are related to spiders and ticks, could be hiding throughout your home if you’re suffering from intense allergy symptoms.

Since dust mites reproduce quickly (with each female potentially laying up to 100 eggs, according to the National Center for Healthy Housing!), getting rid of them can feel like a never-ending battle. To help, we spoke with experts for their top recommendations on how to eliminate dust mites so you can breathe easier and feel better.

What Are Dust Mites Exactly?

Dust mites are tiny, insect-like creatures that feed on the dead skin cells of humans and animals. They don’t bite or sting, and they’re not parasitic. These pests prefer dark, humid areas, making them common in carpets, mattresses, curtains, and bedding. They are not airborne.

Dr. Jose Arias, a volunteer medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association, explains that dust mites can lead to allergies and even provoke asthma attacks. This happens because dust mites leave behind feces, urine, or decomposing bodies—each microscopic—and these biological materials contain a special protein that triggers sensitivity in some individuals.

How Can I Tell If I Have Dust Mites?

Dr. Arias mentions that it's impossible to definitively confirm the presence of dust mites in your home since they’re microscopic, but there are several signs to look out for if you suspect an infestation. Pay attention to your body for any of the following physical symptoms that might indicate a dust mite problem:

Rhinitis

Rhinitis refers to the inflammation and irritation of the nasal mucous membranes, often resulting in symptoms like sneezing, a runny or congested nose, and itchy, watery eyes. If these symptoms seem worse in the mornings, it could indicate that dust mites are hiding in your mattress.

Facial Pressure

The inflammation of the nasal membranes we just mentioned can also cause significant facial pressure.

Coughing and Wheezing

If you’re coughing persistently and dealing with asthma symptoms like wheezing, your body may be reacting to dust mite proteins.

Asthma Attacks

People with asthma are particularly vulnerable to dust mites and may face an increased likelihood of asthma attacks.

Skin Irritation

Is your skin feeling incredibly itchy or becoming red? This could be a sign that your skin is reacting to dust mites or their waste.

Trouble Sleeping

If your sleep is disturbed by the symptoms we’ve discussed, it’s likely that dust mites have found their way into your bed.

How to Minimize and Prevent Dust Mites

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate dust mites from your home, Dr. Arias assures that there are steps you can take to reduce their presence. Natalie D’Apolito from the American Cleaning Institute agrees, stating, “Consistent cleaning and dusting can help keep dust mites under control. Reducing clutter also limits the places where dust mites can accumulate, making cleaning easier.”

Wash Bedding and Fabrics in Hot Water

Since dust mites thrive on fabrics and textiles, it's vital to wash your bedding at least once a week in hot water (minimum of 130 degrees). Be sure to wash curtains, drapes, pillows, and stuffed animals too. Opting for roller shades over fabric curtains is a better alternative when possible.

Use Protective Covers

D’Apolito advises using allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, often referred to as “allergen-impermeable” covers, to keep dust mites at bay. These covers block dust mites due to their microscopic pores. She also recommends cleaning them with a damp cloth on a weekly basis.

Keep Humidity Low

Dust mites flourish in high humidity, so one of the most effective ways to limit their presence is by reducing the humidity in your home. Dust mites absorb moisture from the air, which is why they struggle in dry climates such as deserts. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America suggests keeping your home’s humidity level below 50%—using air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help achieve this.

Dr. Arias notes that air purifiers are ineffective in reducing dust mites. He explains, “I wouldn’t suggest placing one near the bed, as it draws dust into the machine and near the person sleeping.” So, it's best to skip using this device, especially in the bedroom.

Regular and Thorough Dusting

Frequent dusting helps minimize dust accumulation and improves air quality indoors. D’Apolito recommends using a damp washcloth or microfiber cloth to trap dust effectively. (Avoid dry cloths as they can stir up allergens.)

She also suggests dusting rooms top to bottom every week. Don’t forget to clean ceiling fans and light fixtures at least once a month, and make sure to clean air vents as well. Window frames and sills are prime spots for pollen, mildew, and dust mites.

Vacuum Regularly

Ideally, you'd steer clear of wall-to-wall carpeting and choose washable rugs. However, if that's not possible, it’s important to vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently (at least once a week) with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. The American Cleaning Institute advises using either an upright vacuum or a canister model with a powered nozzle for carpets, as these are much more effective at picking up dust compared to vacuums without powered nozzles.

Damp-Mop Hard Floors

Although hard floors are a better choice than carpeting for those with dust mite sensitivities, they still need regular upkeep. Clean them weekly by vacuuming and wet-mopping them.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've got your cleaning routine down and removed as many soft surfaces as possible, but you’re still battling dust mite allergies, it might be time to consult the experts. D’Apolito suggests that professional pest control services, like Orkin, can assist with dust mite removal.