- Keep your floor clear of clutter. Stuffed animals, clothes, rugs, and other soft objects can collect dust and transfer it to the floor under your bed.
- Put shoes away in your closet. Shoes track dust, dirt, and other allergens into the room that can accumulate under your bed.
- Attach a bed skirt to your bed to deter dust. ...
- Install an air filter on your furnace and air conditioning unit. ...
- Air out your room as often as possible. Whenever you can, open up the doors and windows in your bedrooms to let the air circulate.
- Use a fan to circulate the air. Set up a box or standing fan in your room and keep it on low to move the air around in your ...
Full Answer
Do you have to make your bed to keep dust mites away?
A study published that making your bed actually keeps in moisture, making a better environment for dust mites. If you don’t make the bed, the mattress can dry out more easily, and reduce the number of dust mites that live there. Use a metal or wood bed frame – dust mites cannot live in wood or metal.
How can I prevent dust from accumulating in my house?
You can prevent dust from accumulating in your house by reducing clutter, using doormats, and changing your HVAC filter. Also learn tips to dust-proof your bedroom, and how to establish a regular cleaning routine. Soon your home will be sparkling clean and dust-free! Limit knickknacks around the house.
How to get the most out of your bed?
Using these tips should ensure that you get the most out of your bed. The first and easiest way to defend your bed is to use a mattress protector. A mattress protector provides a physical barrier against dust, dirt, skin cells, sweat, and pet dander.
How to get rid of dust under the bed?
Keep your floor clear of clutter. Stuffed animals, clothes, rugs, and other soft objects can collect dust and transfer it to the floor under your bed. Try to keep your floor clear as much as you can to remove the threat of dust and keep your floor clean. [1]
How do I cover my bed from dust?
2:494:29Allergy & Dust Mite Bed Protection Kit by Protect-A-Bed - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipComplete allergy protection is achieved by first applying the hours of smooth mattress encasementMoreComplete allergy protection is achieved by first applying the hours of smooth mattress encasement and securing it on the mattress with the patented bug lock and secure seal.
How do you keep a mattress dust free?
More Ways to Minimize Dust MitesUse a bed with a wooden or metal frame.Wash bedding in hot water. ... Wash sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. ... Consider using an electric blanket, which can reduce humidity on bed surfaces.Wash and dry stuffed animals often and keep them off beds.More items...
Does a mattress pad protect against dust mites?
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Based on two dozen clinical trials, U.S. researchers find that expensive mattress covers make no difference in reducing dust mite allergies or their symptoms.
What to put on a mattress to protect it?
But first, you should really consider adding a mattress protector. Mattress protectors are worth it because they're designed to extend the life of your mattress by acting as the first line of defense against wear and tear, allergens (like pet dander and pollen), spills and even bed bugs.
What are signs of dust mites?
SymptomsSneezing.Runny nose.Itchy, red or watery eyes.Nasal congestion.Itchy nose, roof of mouth or throat.Postnasal drip.Cough.Facial pressure and pain.More items...•
Does every bed have dust mites?
They measure about 1/100th of an inch in length. That is smaller than the period at the end of this sentence. Dust mites feed off of pet and human dander (dead skin cells in the air and on surfaces in our homes). They live in every home in items such as mattresses and furniture.
What kills dust mites?
Wash sheets and pillowcases every week in water hotter than 60 degrees Celsius (60°C). This will kill the dust mites and remove the allergen. If you cannot use hot water, try a commercial washing product containing tea tree or eucalyptus oils, which kills dust mites and can be used in cold water.
What is a dust cover on a bed?
Protect and extend the life of your bed with a new Dust Cover underneath your bed. It will help protect the interior on your box spring or foundation from dust, insects and even a small pet that may be looking for a cozy place to hide or sleep.
Is microfiber dust mite proof?
Organic cotton, wool, and microfiber are all materials that make a good hypoallergenic sheet for fighting against a dust mite allergy.
Is it good to get a mattress protector?
A high-quality protector could also save you from uncomfortable reactions to many allergens, including dust mites. By blocking moisture and ensuring that spills are effectively cleaned and dried, you may also prevent the development of mold and bacteria growth within your mattress.
Should a mattress protector be used?
If it's a new mattress, there is no need to purchase a mattress pad (assuming you are happy with the mattress). A mattress protector on the other hand is all but required. It's inexpensive, protects your investment, has no visible impact, and shouldn't dramatically change the way the mattress feels.
How much should a mattress protector cost?
between $50 and $100On average, mattress protectors usually cost between $50 and $100. However, this will vary based on their materials and construction. Some protectors with additional features, like padding and/or cooling, may cost more, while more basic protectors often cost less.
What can I spray on mattress for dust mites?
Tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and vinegar are all insecticides so they will work to kill off any dust mites that are currently in the mattress. Plus, just about all bugs hate peppermint oil so they will avoid going near the mattress too. Once you have sprayed the mattress then you just need to let it air out and dry.
What kills dust mites?
Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases and bedcovers in hot water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding can't be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C) to kill the mites.
What kills dust mites naturally?
Use diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth, known simply as DE, is a white powder that not only helps you prevent the spread but also helps you kill dust mites. All you have to do is sprinkle, wait, and then vacuum.
Is it healthier to leave your bed unmade?
"Something as simple as leaving a bed unmade during the day can remove moisture from the sheets and mattress so the mites will dehydrate and eventually die." Not all health experts agreed, though, noting that homes are humid enough for dust mites to thrive anyway.
How to clear dust from home?
Try running air purifiers in your home if you want to clear out the dust. [24]
How to prevent dust in furnace?
Use pleated filters in your furnace or air conditioning unit. Fiberglass filters do little to prevent dust, so pleated filters are the way to go. If you’re not sure which filters would work well with your furnace, consult a furnace technician.
How to keep knickknacks from getting dusty?
Limit knickknacks around the house. Knickknacks gather dust quickly and their small crevices are difficult to clean. Get rid of unnecessary clutter. If you have a lot of trinkets you want to display, consider putting them in a glass box. That way, they will still be visible, but one glass box is much easier to dust than many small knick-knacks.
How to get dust out of shoes?
2. Put doormats on both sides of every door used to enter the house. As much as 80% of household dust comes in on the bottoms of shoes, so get the dust before it enters your house by giving your guests a place to wipe their feet. The most effective doormats are tight-weave and rubber-backed.
How to get rid of dust mites in bedding?
Use water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C). The hot water will kill dust mites and remove allergens. If your bedding can't be washed in hot water, you can still kill the dust mites. Just put the bedding in the dryer for 15 minutes or more, at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C).
How to keep dust mites out of house?
Maintain a humidity of 50% or below in the house to prevent dust mites. You can use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier to keep the humidity down. Studies have shown that having a humidity of less than 50% makes the house inhospitable to dust mites, which can really help prevent allergic symptoms.
How to keep dust from floating in the air?
A damp microfiber cloth will prevent the dust from floating up into the air and resettling. Avoid a feather duster. Feather dusters might look cute in the movies, but they don’t actually do a good job of dusting.
How to get rid of bugs on a mattress?
For this method, you’ll mix a cup of baking soda with several drops of any essential oil. Then sprinkle the mix on the top of the mattress, and let it sit for 15 minutes. You’ll then vacuum up the baking soda, and repeat this process on the other side. The goal is to collect the bugs with the baking soda.
Why do you need a mattress encasement?
Purchasing a mattress encasement could also help protect your bed against mites by creating a shield between you and the allergens.
What are dust mites?
Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on the flakes of shed human skin, and they are the most common home allergen. These eight-legged bugs are in the Arachnida family, which means they’re related to spiders.
Can asthma cause a mattress to be hypoallergenic?
People with asthma could see an increased risk of flare-ups and severe attacks. Investing in a hypoallergenic mattress can be particularly helpful for those who are allergic to dust mites. These beds are specifically made with anti-allergen and dust-preventing materials.
Can you put a mattress in the washing machine?
Understandably, you can’t haul your entire mattress into the washing machine, so make sure you use a removable cover on your bed for washing. The cover, along with your sheets and pillowcases, should be washed thoroughly in hot water every week.
Can you use baking soda to clean bugs?
The goal is to collect the bugs with the baking soda. Be sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, though. HEPA vacuums are designed to collect dirt without recirculating those allergens back into the room.
Can cats hang out in the bed?
We may consider our pets a part of the family, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to let them hang out in our bed. Like humans, dogs and cats attract dust mites, which means they could increase the likelihood of the allergens invading your sleep space.
How to get rid of dust mites in bedding?
1. Wash Your Bedding In Hot Water. Dust mites will not survive if you wash them in high temperatures. One study found that washing your bedding items at least 140 degree Fahrenheit can be enough to completely eliminate all dust mites in your bedding.
What to do if you are allergic to dust mites?
If you are allergic to dust mites, your doctor may recommend a medication like antihistamines, corticosteroids , decongestants, or leukotriene modifiers . You can also use the home remedies discussed above to prevent or get rid of dust mites in your bedroom.
What Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on dead human skin cells. Because of their diet, dust mites like to take residence in common household items like mattresses, pillows, and other bedding products.
Can dust mites live in metal?
Use a metal or wood bed frame – dust mites cannot live in wood or metal, so you should choose this type of frame. Wash sheets and bedding with hot water regularly – dust mites cannot survive a wash with hot water, but they may survive a cold-water wash.
Do dust mites like soft carpet?
Also be sure if you have carpets that you’re regularly vacuuming those as well, since dust mites also like to make a home in soft carpet.
Can you run a dehumidifier to get rid of dust mites?
While there may be some drawbacks to having to run a dehumidifier, and it won’t be the end-all-be-all solution for eliminating dust mites, it can be a good method to keep dust mites out for extended periods of time.
Do dust mites bite humans?
Unlike some insects and bugs, dust mites do not bite humans or burrow into the skin. But if you like to have a clean environment, it’s best to take measures to get rid of and prevent dust mites in your bedroom. However, if your mattress becomes full of dust mites, you might have to consider mattress disposal.
Why do dust mites live in bedding?
Your mattress and bedding are the most desirable locations for dust mites to live because they feed on the human skin cells we shed. Dust mites are microscopic arthropods of the Arachnida class, meaning they are related to spiders and scorpions. They have a globe-shaped body and eight legs just like their bigger cousins.
How to kill dust mites in a room?
Even in a seemingly clean home, air can still cary many particulates like mold, pet dander, and, of course, dust mites. Lowering the humidity in your room to less than 40% is an effective way to kill and control dust mite populations and using air purifier will help you reduce the allergens floating around.
Where Do Dust Mites Live?
Dust mites could be anywhere in your home, but they are most likely to collect in your bedroom where it is dark, moist, and inviting to their appetite. Between your mattress, pillow, sheets, and blankets, dust mites are presented with a buffet of dead human cells from our hair and skin.
How to get rid of mites on pillows?
However, if you are worried about damaging your nice pillows, you might want to take a more professional approach. 3. Use dust mite sprays.
What are dust mites?
Dust mites do not bite you or carry diseases, but their presence in your home, or even worse the bed where you sleep each night, can cause severe allergy issues including: 1 Nasal congestion 2 Coughing or itchy throat 3 Excessive sneezing 4 Eye irritation or redness 5 Difficulty breathing 6 Skin irritation, potentially leading to eczema 7 Asthma aggravation
How long does it take for dust mites to grow?
They take roughly 20 to 30 days to mature, yet their quick reproduction cycle still poses a threat to your interior (a female can lay anywhere between 30 and 60 eggs during her lifetime). AKA dust mites can become a serious problem very quickly.
Can dust mites grow on a couch?
Humidity from perspiration makes your mattress or couch a particularly hospitable environment for dust mites to infest and grow, which is rather unfortunate if you’re an allergy sufferer . Carpets, drapery, cushions, table covers and other upholstered furniture also offer an excellent environment for mites to develop.
8 Ways to Protect Your Mattress
The average person spends anywhere from 7 to 11 hours in bed [1] every day. With all this use, your mattress is going to suffer from some wear and tear. However, if you take good care of your mattress, it will take good care of you. Using these tips should ensure that you get the most out of your bed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every mattress is different, and no bed has an official expiration date from the day you purchase it. Depending on several factors, from the type of mattress you have to how much you use it, you can typically get anywhere from 6 to 10 years out of it.
Conclusion
The investment in your mattress goes beyond that initial purchase. Get the mattress protector, regularly clean your sheets and your bed, and don’t forget to let the sunshine in to refresh your mattress. Taking the time to incorporate these protective and preventive measures into your routine will ensure that your mattress lasts as long as it can.
How to stop dust from coming in?
Dust goes everywhere air flows, so the key to stopping dust is stopping airflow. A loose curtain of plastic hung with a few strips of tape won't do the job. Instead, make your dust barrier as airtight as possible. Completely seal the top and sides with tape to create a dust barrier. Taping to walls is usually easier than taping to woodwork. If you can't seal the bottom edge with tape, lay a board across it. Light plastic (1 mil or so) is fine for most jobs. If you need to pass through the dust barrier, use heavier 4- or 6- mil plastic and add an adhesive-backed zipper. These are available at home centers and lumberyards.
How to keep dust levels down?
A fan blowing out the window helps to keep dust levels down, and it creates a slight vacuum in the work area. That way, any gaps in your dust barrier will let air flow into the work zone, but dust-laden air can't sneak into surrounding rooms. This works so well, in fact, that you may not even need a dust barrier for light-dust projects, like perhaps in a small kitchen demolition project. Just be sure to close large gaps around the fan with cardboard or plastic so wind gusts don't blow the dust right back inside. For good airflow, you may have to crack open a door or window on the opposite side of the room. Plus: These cleaning tips will help you reduce household dust.
How to protect carpet from snags?
A hammer knocked off a ladder can dent wood flooring, chip ceramic tile or even puncture vinyl, and heavy foot traffic will grind grit into the floor. For protection against falling tools (and just about everything else), cut sheets of 1/8-in. hardboard to fit the room and duct-tape them together at the seams. Also tape around the perimeter with masking tape so grit can't get underneath the hardboard and scratch the floor.
How to cover window treatments?
Most window openings that will be exposed to dust should be entirely covered with plastic. But for windows you need to open, cover the window treatments in plastic instead of removing them. Removing window treatments is risky business: Parts disappear; metal slats bend; fabric rips or gets dirty. And replacing damaged treatments can get expensive—if you can even find one that matches, that is. Tape plastic to the top of the casing, then tuck the plastic up underneath and behind it. Open the window to tape the plastic on the back of the treatment to the top jamb. Don't forget to remove the screens. Screens and construction don't mix. One of the very first tasks of any remodeling job is to remove all the screens from any window or door that could be in harm's way. Label each one so they all find their way back to the right place. Wrap them in plastic and put them in some safe out-of-the-way location.
How to avoid tracking filth in your house?
Avoid tracking filth all over the house with a pair of protective shoe covers. It's easier than untying and retying your shoes or boots when you need to run to a part of the house without floor protection in place. Booties are cheap and available at home centers.
Can you lay plastic floor protectors on hardwood floors?
But don't forget about the paths less traveled, like the one to the bathroom or to the room where the electrical panel is located. Make sure to lay a plastic floor protector there too. Rolling out plastic floor protector is easy. It doesn't offer heavy-duty protection but is good enough for the occasional trip. Self-adhesive carpet protection film like this is inexpensive. Similar construction floor protection is available for hardwood floors.
Can you lay down wood chips on muddy paths?
When wood chip paths get muddy, you can just lay down another layer. Wood chips work better than stringy mulch, and are relatively inexpensive.
