This list is excerpted from an article entitled “House Dust Mites” by Jerome Goddard taken from the April 2010 issue of PCT Magazine
For the full aricle, go to: https://www.pctonline.com/PCT1004_dustmites.aspx
12 ways to reduce house dust mites and avoid their allergens
- Encase pillows, mattress and the box springs in zippered, allergen-impermeable, dust-proof covers. Covers that permit perspiration vapor transmission will be most comfortable.
- All bedding — sheets, blankets, pillow cases, and mattress pads should be washed every week or two in hot water (130°F). If comforters are not encased in allergen- impermeable covers, they should also be washed every two weeks.
- Vacuum clean weekly (wear a mask and leave the room for 20 minutes after cleaning).
- Make sure the vacuum cleaner has a double-thickness bag or a HEPA filter on the air outlet.
- Carpeting should be removed from the room, and tile, wood, or other non-fibrous flooring should be installed.
- Use shades or blinds in windows instead of draperies or curtains.
- Avoid fabric-based wall decorations such as pennants, tapestries, and macrame hangings.
- Substitute wooden or plastic furniture for upholstered furniture, or choose vinyl or leather furniture that includes an additional allergen barrier.
- HEPA air purifiers will help further remove allergens in the air of the bedroom.
- Install allergen-trapping filters in air conditioning/heating systems.
- Keep all clothing in the closet with the door shut.
- Clean all drawers and dressers with a treated cloth, and wear a tight-fitting dust mask when performing household cleaning.