Dust mites are tiny, invisible organisms that grow as pests on the bedcovers and blankets. It is a microscopic bug with water-repelling layer on its body. Thus, it is not easy to get rid of dust mites by simply washing the upholsteries with water. These mites prefer warm and dark environment, for which large numbers of them are found within the mattresses and pillows of beds, woolen carpets, sofa covers, and stored bags.
Though dust mites do not bite humans directly, their presence can cause a lot of illnesses, like nasal congestion, irritation in the eyes, breathing problems, and skin rashes. Many people also develop asthma, eczema, polyps, and allergies from these mites. So it is essential to know how to get rid of bed mites so that people can save themselves from these ailments.
Use of special vacuum cleaner – Ordinary vacuum cleaners cannot help in getting rid of dust mites from furnishings. So it is best to use only a specially designed vacuum cleaner with anti-dust mite filtration, to eliminate these mites permanently from the home. However, the beds, carpets, and other upholsteries should be vacuumed at least on every alternate day. A steam cleaner may also be used for killing the mites hidden in the beds and sofas, from which very hot steam evolves while operating it.
Throw out old beddings – Huge numbers of dust mites are found inside old mattresses and pillows, which cause irritations for users. Old carpets, rugs, and soft toys are also homes of mites and all these things should be thrown out of home. It is better to buy synthetic bedding items that are claimed to be hypoallergenic and supposed to repel the dust mites.
Use a bed protector – If it is not possible to replace the old mattress, it is best to place a bed protector over the mattress so that the human body does not come in touch with the dust mites. However, this bed protector should be washed regularly to get rid of the mites that stick to its surface.
Regular wash of upholsteries – All the bedding items, curtains, rugs, and other washable upholsteries should be washed at frequent intervals. It is more effective to wash these fabrics in warm water that should attain a temperature of more than 65 degrees C. The addition of some anti-mite material, like eucalyptus oil in this warm water may further help in killing all the mites hidden within the fibers of these fabrics. Eucalyptus oil can also be sprayed all over the surfaces of these furnishings before putting into the warm water.
Apply an air purifier – An ultraviolet air purifier can be installed at the room and used for killing all the dust mites hidden all over the place. However, this purifier is made of the latest technology and thus, it is quite expensive for common people. So the release of these mites into the air can be prevented by simply wiping off all furniture pieces and upholsteries with a wet cloth, to capture the hidden mites. This cleaning cloth should be later washed thoroughly with hot water.
Hence, it is not a difficult job for homemakers if they know exactly how to get rid of bed mites from their houses.