How to Kill Dust Mites Naturally

Dust mite feces and their remains are one of the leading causes of allergies in the home. You can't completely get rid of dust mites but you can significantly reduce the number of mites thus reducing the allergic effects. Here are some natural ways of dealing with these little microscopic creatures. Dust mites feed off of your dead skin cells and carcasses of fleas, silverfish and other household insects. Eliminate the food source and you can help reduce the number of mites. Try these easy steps:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• vacuum
• eucalyptus essential oil
• vodka [90% proof]
• small spray bottle
• washing machine

1. Because dust mites live in fabrics, carpets and upholstery you must learn to be fastidiously clean. Vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly. If possible rip up the carpet and install wooden floors. Dust regularly.

2. Dust mites do not like sunlight. On a nice day hang out comforters, blankets, etc. on the line to bask in the sun.

3. Hang pillows on the line with multiple clothespins and then beat with a broom handle to shake the debris from the dust mites loose. This will also shake off any dead skin that they can feed on.

4. Wash bedding often adding several drops of eucalyptus oil to the water. Use the warmest water setting allowable for the fabric.

5. Make a spray of 1 cup vodka and 20-30 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. Spray your pillows and bedding a couple times per week. Use the spray on upholstery and carpets as well.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are sensitive to eucalyptus oil then try lavender or rosemary essential oil.
• If you have children spray stuffed animals and place them in a plastic bag for several hours before putting away.

[mrsmac]

on 10/13/2009 Good tips here that I have to try I have a dust allergy but I hate housework! Funny thing is I have always put the quilts out in the summer to Air as my granma would say.

[withmore]

on 9/8/2009 Great tips, thanks

[moonsun55]

on 9/1/2009 WOW! I didn't know you could control them. Thanks for sharing.

[antiherofenix]

on 5/1/2009 you can also use vinegar ^_^

[AndreaDorie]

on 8/22/2008 Great ideas! We have dogs and I don't like using commercial chemicals around them. Thanks!!