5 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny microscopic spider-like creatures that live in mattresses, carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture. These creatures feed on the dead skin that you or your pets shed on a daily basis. They thrive in environments that are warm and humid. Almost 1 million dust mites can feed on the dead skin shed by you on a daily basis. These tiny pests are not harmful in small numbers but when their population gets out of hand, they can cause problems for certain people.

Their droppings are one of the most common causes of asthma. Some people may even be allergic to them and their allergy symptoms include coughing, a stuffy or a runny nose, watery eyes, and itching of the skin, nose, mouth, or throat. Though it is not possible to eliminate them completely, you can follow a few suggestions to reduce their number.

# Keep The Temperature And Humidity Of Your Home Low

Keeping your home cool and dry is one of the best ways to control the population of dust mites. Dust mites usually thrive when the humidity is greater than 50 percent. If they do not get enough moisture, their actions get inhibited. If you stay in a humid area, you can use a dehumidifier in your home. If the climate in your area is dry, keep the windows open to let in fresh air. A room temperature of between 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for reducing dust mite population.

# Wash Bedding And Soft Furnishings In Hot Water

Whenever you wash bedding or soft furnishings such as cushions, rugs, or curtains, wash them at high temperatures. Washing them in cold water will not do the trick. And, make sure to wash them thoroughly at least once or twice a month.

# Freeze The Mites

Certain fabrics like silk covers or stuffed toys cannot be washed at very high temperatures. If these items are small enough, you can place them in a sealed bag and freeze them for 24 hours. This will kill the dust mites and will prevent them from adding droppings to your home. You can vacuum the items or wash them after taking them out of the freezer.

# Sprinkle Some Diatomaceous Earth

When the fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms known as diatoms are made into fine powder, you get diatomaceous earth. You can purchase it at any health store. The skeleton of diatoms are cylindrical in shape and have razor sharp edges which do not affect humans but are deadly to dust mites and other small insects. It can also kill fleas and bed bugs. Just sprinkle it on your mattresses, bedding, rugs, curtains, and carpets, leave it overnight and vacuum it the next day. You can repeat the procedure as often as you like but make sure to purchase only food-grade variety, which is safe to use in your home.

# Spray Essential Oils

Several dust mite sprays you purchase in the market may be expensive and loaded with chemicals but completely ineffective against dust mites. Using essential oils is much safer and more effective. Essential oils like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil have antibacterial, antiviral, and antiviral properties that help get rid of dust mites along with the bacteria, fungi, and viruses that cause allergies. Add 2 teaspoons of essential oil to 2 cups of distilled water and spray them onto your mattresses, bedding, and soft furnishings using a dark colored spray bottle.