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How to Keep Dust Mites Out of Your Bed

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By Debbie Davis
User-Submitted Article
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Keep Dust Mites Out of Your Bed
Keep Dust Mites Out of Your Bed

Dust mites are relentless in their reproduction and elimination process. And since it is the protein in the feces that they produce that causes the allergic reaction these 2 traits are not good news.

Unfortunately, nothing will completely eliminate mites, but following these 6 steps will greatly reduce their numbers and give you much needed relief.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Don't Make the Bed-Let me qualify this statement quickly so as not to get in trouble with parents around the world. This really means wait for a while before tucking in the covers. Letting the bed air out before covering it up again does several things. First, it lets any moisture evaporate; and second, since sunlight kills the mites, letting the sun shine in is a great way to eliminate them naturally.

  2. Step 2

    Wash Your Bedding-This is an easy but effective way to reduce their numbers. Washing linens once a week in water that is 140 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter effectively eliminates feces and those mites that may be clinging to the covers in hopes of adding to their numbers.

  3. Step 3

    Use Mite Proof Covers-Covering your mattress and pillows with these covers can make a huge difference. They can be bought on line and in stores that specialize in bedding and bath products. These covers prevent the little critters from taking up residence in your mattress and pillows where it is virtually impossible to eliminate them.

  4. Step 4

    Use Flooring That Can Be Thoroughly Cleaned-Hardwood, tile, and rugs that can be washed or cleaned regularly make it easier to eliminate mites from your floors. Wall to wall carpet and big area rugs that are difficult to move are a great hiding place for mites that are not always eliminated with vacuuming. Keeping this in mind is particularly important in the bedroom where they most often make their headquarters.

  5. Step 5

    Vacuum Frequently-A vacuum with a HEPA filter is the best type to use. This kind of vacuum effectively traps them rather than sending them airborne as many of the usual types of vhttp://forms.ehow.com/contribute.aspx?P=10&id=5555126acuums can do.

  6. Step 6

    Eliminate Mites with a HEPA Air Purifier-Dust mites can and do become airborne with normal activities such as walking, sitting on the bed, or even moving the covers around as you make the bed. Trapping the mites while they are airborne clears the air effectively and reduces their numbers while taking absolutely no effort on your part.

    A high efficiency particle arresting (or HEPA) air purifier can remove airborne particles as small as .3 microns. So not only will it remove mites, but other airborne triggers such as dust, pollen, mold and mildew spores, and pet dander.

Tips & Warnings
  • An excellent HEPA air purifier to remove dust mites is offered by PurerAir.com-- the HealthMate Air Purifier. See it now at http://purerair.com/healthmate_hm400.html
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