Dust mites are microscopic creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments. Because they eat dead skin cells and pet dander, they can find a comfortable habitat in your home's bedding, furniture, and carpets. Even though they are likely always around, an increasing dust mite population can be a problem, especially if you already have a household dust allergy. 

Dust mite exposure can go unnoticed pretty easily. It can manifest like many other airborne allergens causing a runny nose or itchy skin. "About 25% to 30% of the population experiences seasonal allergies, and air quality definitely affects those people," highlights Samuel Hodgkinson, senior product manager at LG Air Care. "Poor indoor air quality can impact anyone in your home, especially children, older adults and those with certain preexisting conditions." 

Sorry to say that during the winter, many homes are ideal dust mite habitat, but it is possible to reduce their population which, in turn, will soothe your symptoms.

Do dust mites bite humans?

No, dust mites don’t bite. They feed on human skin cells. However, dust mite feces and shed skin can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Tips for Success

• Keep it Cool: The ideal habitat for dust mites is around 70°F. Lowering the temperature and humidity in your home helps to slow their reproduction.
• Wash Regularly: Regular cleaning of bedding, towels, and other fabrics in hot water (at least 130°F) will help eliminate mites. If your allergy to dust mites is particularly sensitive, consider washable curtains. Steam cleaning carpets annually can help with all indoor allergens.
• Vacuum Smartly: Instead of dusting with a feather duster, or even a microfiber cloth which can just move house dust mites around, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. These filters trap mites instead of blowing them back into the air.
• Declutter: Dust loves clutter, so reducing knick-knacks, stuffed animals, and fabric-covered surfaces can make a huge difference in reducing your allergy symptoms.
• Invest in Protectors: Allergen-proof cover mattresses and pillows create a barrier, preventing mites from making their home where you rest.

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites

You'll Need:

• HEPA vacuum cleaner
• Dust-mite-proof covers for mattresses and pillows
• Laundry detergent
• Hot water (130°F or higher)
• Dehumidifier
• Air cleaners
• Allergen-free cleaning products

1. Start with Your Bedding

• Remove all your bedding, including pillows and comforters.
• Wash everything in the hottest water (130°F or higher) you can to kill the pests and remove dust mite droppings.
• Dry on high heat or in the sun—UV rays can also help eliminate mites.
• Consider replacing heavy blankets with lighter, washable ones.

2. Use Dust-Mite-Proof Covers

• Invest in covers designed to block dust mites from entering mattresses and pillows.
• Slip the covers onto your mattresses and pillows immediately after washing.
• Make sure the covers are tightly sealed and regularly wiped down with a damp cloth.

3. Vacuum Thoroughly

• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to clean carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture. These filters trap dust mites instead of releasing them back into the air.
• Vacuum slowly to pick up as much dust as possible.
• Don’t forget to vacuum under furniture and in corners where dust gathers.

4. Run an Air Purifier

"Using a high-quality indoor air filter is one of the best investments you can make for your family's well-being," notes Hodgkinson. "This is even more important during the colder months, when everyone spends more time indoors."

• HEPA filtration isn't just for the vacuum.
• You can run an air purifier 24/7 in your home to help capture dust mite particles and their waste products.
• The size of the unit depends on your space. Some air purifiers are optimized for large spaces, like your living room and open concept kitchen, while others are better for the bedroom.

5. Control the Humidity

• Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so aim to keep the humidity level in your home below 50%.
• Use a dehumidifier if necessary, particularly in bedrooms and basements.
• Air conditioning can also help reduce indoor humidity.

6. Declutter Your Space

• Remove clutter that act as dust collectors. If you're experiencing allergy-like symptoms, a perpetually stuffy nose, or facial pressure, you'll want to remove wall hangings, artificial flowers, and any other infrequently or non-washable items. For children with asthma this might mean washing stuffed animals which can be a common trigger.
• Store frequently used items in dust-free, sealed containers.
• Wipe down hard surfaces with a damp cloth to pick up dust.

7. Regularly Clean Curtains and Upholstery

• Clean wall carpets and cushion covers regularly.
• For delicate items or non-washable curtains, use a steam cleaner.
• Consider replacing heavy curtains with washable, lightweight alternatives.

8. Use Allergen-Free Cleaning Products

• Keep mites at bay with products designed to reduce allergens. Check your local hardware store for cleaning products that neutralize dust mite allergens.
• Spray and wipe down surfaces, including mattresses and furniture, regularly.

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What temperature kills dust mites?

Washing fabrics in hot water at 130°F or higher will kill dust mites. For non-washable items, put them in direct sunlight, put them on the hottest dryer cycle, or use a steam cleaner to tackle the problem.

Can dust mites live in wood or hard surfaces?

Dust mites prefer soft surfaces like bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture. They are less likely to survive on plastic surfaces or hardwood floors. But dust-mite particles can still settle on those surfaces.