How to Kill Dust Mites in the House

Dust mites are commonly found in bedding.

Dust mites, which eat dead skin cells from humans and animals, can multiply quickly in your home. These pesty mites often cause allergens due to dropping feces. Dust mites are found in areas where people spend most of their time, for example, bedding. People allergic to dust mites will need to follow the right precautions to remove them from their homes.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum cleaner with attachments
• Dust mite covers
• Steam cleaner
• Dehumidifier

Instructions

1. Remove all the sheets, pillows and blankets from your beds. Wash all the bedding in hot water at least 130 degrees F. Dry the bedding by hanging it outside on a clothesline.

2. Use a vacuum cleaner with attachments to clean the mattresses. Flip the mattresses over and vacuum them thoroughly.

3. Place dust mite covers on your mattresses, pillows and comforters.

4. Contact a professional about removing and replacing your carpets. If this is not an option, have a professional steam clean them or use a vacuum cleaner designed to remove allergens from the home.

5. Steam clean your upholstered furniture. Afterward, if upholstered furniture still contains dust mites or droppings, consider replacing with leather furniture, which will not trap dust mites and their feces.

6. Remove all curtains and draperies. Take them to a professional to clean. Vacuum the windows and windowsills. Replace window curtains with blinds or shutters to reduce dust mites in your home.

7. Wash any pet bedding you have in your home. Clean the pet bedding in hot water.

8. Place a dehumidifier in rooms where you found the dust mites. This will keep the humidity between 30 to 50 percent, which will kill the mites.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Dust Mites
• American College of Allergies, Asthma, and Immunology: House Dust Allergy
• Dust Mites: Killing Dust Mites