Research has shown that asthmatic children, when exposed to dust mites and other allergens, face the most serious risks. Dust mites are recognized as one of the most common indoor allergens. Dust mite allergies cause eye redness and watering, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and skin irritation.
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is one of the common problems resulting from dust mite exposure. One study showed that people with eczema were prone to having more mites on their skin. Many patients with atopic dermatitis are
advised to maintain a clean, dust-free home (as much as possible).
How to Reduce Dust Mites in Your Home
In order to reduce the frequency allergic or asthmatic symptoms related to dust mites, there are a few things you should do. While basic cleanliness is enormously important, be sure to implement these simple, effective strategies
too.
Reduce Humidity
Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so it is best to keep your home at less than 50% humidity.
Dehumidifiers are effective and inexpensive. In dry climates, opening the windows can also help release excess humidity in the home.
Clean!
As their name implies, dust mites thrive in the presence of dust. When dusting your home, use a wet cloth or mop. Be wary of using a traditional duster, as it’s likely to just stir the dust around the home without actually picking it up. Cleaning carpets, or eliminating them completely, can also be a huge help. Your bed is a huge dust mite magnet so wash your bedding at least once a week to reduce dust mite accumulation.
Purchase an Air Filter
Nearly everyone can benefit from a high-quality air filter, especially since it’s not just dust mites you need to be concerned with. HEPA air filters remove more than dust mites, they also remove a lot of the most concerning environmental toxins that are floating around.
Zap Them
I’m not a big fan of microwaves but they do have one good use — they kill dust mites. One study showed that 300 seconds of microwaving on high and medium settings reduced 100% of exposed mites. Popping your child’s toy — one that is microwave safe, of course — in the microwave may be a helpful way of reducing your child’s exposure to dust mites.
Protect Yourself
Herbal approaches for supporting resistance to the health effects of dust mites have been studied intensely throughout the past few years. Lemongrass and neem seed extract have demonstrated effective results for combating dust mites, not to mention other harmful organisms
RSS Feed
