Eucalyptus to Kill Dust Mites

If you have an allergy to dust, the problem might not be the dust itself. It could be the dust mites that live within it. A variety of products are available to combat dust mites, but some stain fabrics and others can trigger skin irritation. If you prefer to use natural options, try using eucalyptus to kill dust mites.

Dust Mites

Dust mites don't live in dirty houses; these eight-legged creatures thrive in homes in warm, humid climates no matter how often they are cleaned. Dust mites live in dust, feeding on the organic matter they find there. They do not bite humans or animals, but they can still cause problems for your family. Some people are allergic to them. Exposure to the proteins in a dust mite's body or to its feces can trigger reactions like watering eyes, a stuffy nose and respiratory issues.

Eucalyptus

Vacuuming and dusting can actually make dust mite allergies worse because they stir up dust mite feces, lifting it into the air and increasing your exposure to it. Washing linens in very hot water kills dust mites, helping protect you from them while you sleep. For fabrics that cannot be washed or cannot withstand high temperatures, eucalyptus oil can help. Eucalyptus oil is a natural mite killer that does not require hot temperatures to work.

Application

Use eucalyptus oil in your laundry to kill any dust mites hiding in your linens. Add a tablespoon of eucalyptus oil to your washer and you can clean your linens with cooler water. Add a small amount of eucalyptus oil to a bathtub full of water and soak fabrics that can't be put in the washer. Place two or three drops of eucalyptus oil into a spray bottle full of water. Spritz down carpets and drapes with the mixture to cut down on the dust mite population hiding within them. Spray the mixture onto mattresses and upholstered furniture to kill mites there.

Considerations

Prescription medications and allergy shots can help relieve symptoms of allergies to dust mites, but reducing your exposure to them is the most effective way to ease your reactions to them. In addition to using eucalyptus, remove materials in your home that provide a hospitable environment to them. Getting rid of carpets and padded furniture can help, especially in the bedroom. Reducing humidity in your home with a dehumidifier reduces dust mite numbers. Use a plastic mattress cover as a firm barrier between the mattress and your body while you sleep.

References

• University of Oregon Health Center; House Dust Mites; 2007
• "Health and Wellness"; Gordon Edlin, Eric Golanty; 2009