Dust Control In Your House

If you're allergic to house dust mite (like I am), then here is a list of things that you could do to decrease your exposure to house dust mites. If you think you might be allergic to dust mites, you could try these to see if it helps your condition. Before we get started on that, what exactly is a house dust mite?



What is dust mite?

A house dust mite is a component of house dust. It is a microscopic, insect-like creature which is found in homes and lives primarily in mattresses, carpets and upholstered furniture. It likes humid and warm conditions in particular, eating the dead skin cells that we shed. (Eww.) They produce waste products that in turn causes allergic reactions in us. As long as these waste particles remain in your house, they will continue to cause allergic symptoms.

Where can we find dust mites?

Mainly in the places where there are a lot of skin flakes, such as bedroom mattresses, pillows, blankets and carpets. Female dust mites can lay up to 50 eggs, giving rise to a new generation of dust mites in 3 weeks!

What can I do to remove dust mites in my house?

1. Keep your clothes in a wardrobe/closet and keep the door shut.
2. Avoid curtains! They are great at trapping dust. Use shades if you can.
3. Wash your bed linen frequently using 60 degree celsius warm water! (every 2 weeks or so)
4. For your pillows, bolster and mattress, use dust-proof covers.
5. Remove carpets. They are great at trapping dust.
6. Instead of upholstered furniture, use plastic or wooden ones.
7. Have machine-washable toys instead for children.
8. Minimize wall decorations such as picture frames that tends to collect dust.
9. Clean all surfaces as often as possible.
10. Air conditioning can prevent high humidity/warmth that dust mites like.
11. A de-humidifier can help as well.
12. Use anti-dust mite sprays and anti-dust mite solution where applicable.

Well, of course it might be quite impossible to follow all of the rules above. Most importantly, it is going to cost you some money. I've tried to follow them to the best of my abilities (without spending much money), and I've found that they have indeed helped to a certain extent. Every little bit helps!

These were the advice that I got when I was diagnosed with Allergic Rhinitis, and you're likely to get the exact same advice from doctors as well. Hope these help!