Dust mites are grotesque little creatures to behold. Although microscopic in size, they can wreak big havoc on your home and personal health. Some people are more sensitive to dust mites than others, often times resulting in an allergic response. Still, most people agree they'd like to discover ways to reduce dust mites "just because." Customers often ask Atlantic Duct Cleaning for ways to reduce dust mite population and exposure. In response, we compiled a list of ten things you can do.

 

1. Dust Regularly

You can't eliminate them, but you can reduce dust mites in the home. The first way is to dust regularly using a damp cloth, microfiber cloth, or oil. These items capture dust instead of propelling it into the air, only to resettle on surfaces. 

2. Limit Areas Where Dust Mites Can Live

Dust mites love carpeting, rugs, and cloth textiles. The threads and fibers provide the perfect habitat to host these allergy-inducing critters. Accordingly, plan on cleaning rugs, carpets, and upholstered furniture frequently. Moreover, you may even consider replacing or removing rugs and carpeting altogether. Wood flooring, tile, vinyl, and similar flooring surfaces are good alternatives. 

3. Wash Bedding in Hot Water Regularly

Bedding amasses large dust mite populations. This is due to humans lying on them night after night. Further, some bedding textures attract dust more than others. To reduce dust mites in bedding, wash sheets, blankets, pillowcases, covers, and bed skirts in hot water. For most washers, this requires a temperature of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. 

4. Use Allergen-Free Mattress Covers and Bedding

In addition to dust mites, other allergens often gather in the same places, including bedding. Washing bedding in hot water reduces dust mites. Additionally, using dust-proof or allergen-preventing bedding slows them down, too. The fabric itself is more difficult for them to colonize. For added protection, cover the box springs with the same material. 

5. Vacuum Responsibly

Vacuuming itself doesn't reduce dust mites. In reality, it can catapult dust mites and other allergens into the air. If you find your eyes, throat, or nose impacted while vacuuming, that's probably why. To remedy this, try purchasing special bags or HEPA filters that work with the vacuum cleaner. 

6. Declutter the Home

Knick knacks, books, collectibles, toys, pictures, and any number of items placed around the home collect dust. Unless you move every piece, dust it, and dust the entire surface regularly, dust mites can take hold. Make it a point to clean these areas regularly. Otherwise, you may want to consider storing or even purging them. 

7. Remove or Wash Stuffed Toys

Fabric and stuffing in children's and pets' toys are prime real estate for dust mites. Throw pillows present the same challenge. As with bedding, wash the items in hot water and keep them away from beds and upholstered furniture. 

8. Install a High-Quality Filter

Consider a whole-house filter or furnace filter with a high rating. For best results, look for a minimum efficiency reporting value of 11-12. Then, swap out the filter every three months, more often if you have pets. 

9. Maintain Low Humidity

In addition to bedding, cloth, and carpets, dust mites also thrive in humidity. To address this, make sure the humidity level in your home is less than 50%.

10. Schedule Air Duct Cleaning

Air ducts and vents accumulate vast amounts of dust and dust mites. If you've never had your air ducts cleaned, or if it's been a while, schedule an appointment with a professional air duct cleaner. This act alone will support every other item on the list. 

Atlantic Duct Cleaning serves both residential and commercial properties in Reston, Alexandria, and the surrounding area. We'll thoroughly inspect and clean your ducts and vents, leaving your home fresh and dust-free. Enjoy fewer dust mites and better indoor air quality. Call (703)-435-4485 to speak to a professional or request an estimate online.