What are Dust Mites?

asthma05.jpg

Dust mites are tiny insects that are invisible to the naked eye.

Every home has dust mites. They feed on human skin flakes and are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys and fabric and fabric-covered items. Body parts and feces from dust mites can trigger asthma in individuals with allergic reactions to dust mites, and exposure to dust mites can cause asthma in children who have not previously exhibited asthma symptoms.

Actions You Can Take

  • Cover mattresses and pillows with dust proof ("allergen-impermeable") zippered covers.
  • Wash bedding (sheets, blankets and bedcovers) once per week in hot water.
  • Choose washable stuffed toys, wash them often in hot water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Keep stuffed toys off beds.
  • Maintain low indoor humidity, ideally between 30-50% relative humidity. Humidity levels can be measured by hygrometers which are available at local hardware stores.

Common house dust may contain asthma triggers. When you are treating your house for dust mites, try these simple steps as well.

  • Remove dust often with a damp cloth.
  • Vacuum carpet and fabric-covered furniture to reduce dust build-up.
  • Using vacuums with high efficiency filters or central vacuums may be helpful.
  • People with asthma or allergies should leave the area being vacuumed.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
Search All Articles
Related Articles
How To Save On Closing Costs
HomecashsmMany are shocked when they learn how much they owe to close on their mortgage. But there are ways to save before you sign on th
What are the FHA Loan Requirements?
FhaThe FHA makes it easy to secure a home loan. The FHA Loan Requirements are described in detail in this article.
Homeowners Insurance
HomeinstTips on how to shop for homeowners insurance and save money-also avice on flood insurance
Asbestos
Asbestosdanger2_thAn information guide on asbestos and asbestos abatement. Also discusses vermiculite and how it relates to asbestos.

More...
Most Popular
Conventional Storage Water Heaters
Storage_water_heater_thHow storage water heaters work; what criteria to use when selecting the right model; and some installation, maintenance, and safety tips.
How to Improve Your Credit Score
CreditcardthumbYour credit score is calculated using a complex algorithm that takes into account many different factors.
Ohio - The Buckeye State
OhiothumbHighly populated, Ohio is situated between the Eastern Seaboard and the Midwest.
Homeowners Roles and Responsibilities
HomeownerrolesthumbPurchasing a new home is a very exciting time and one that requires an enormous amount of thought and consideration.

More...

Zip Code Profiler

Neighborhoods, Home Values, Schools, City & State Data, Sex Offender Lists, more.

Instant Home Value!