Ways to Kill Dust Mites
- Dust mites cannot survive in extreme temperatures, so the most natural way for removing them is with heat or cold. Wash all linens in hot water and dry them on high heat ( at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit). Do the same with drapery, pillows, stuffed animals and other washing machine-friendly items. If your items are not hot-water safe, you can instead freeze and kill the dust mites by putting linens and draperies in the freezer for 24-hours.
- Humidity and sunlight also aid in killing dust mites. Keeping humidity levels below 50% causes their demise as they prefer high moisture climates. The mites cannot survive in the path of direct sunlight either, so place throw rugs and doormats outside at least once per week, and keep windows and curtains open to allow direct sunlight to penetrate into as much of your home as possible.
- A variety of chemical treatments are marketed for ridding your home of dust mites. Most pest-control companies, hardware stores, home improvement stores, and superstores offer products designed for dust mite eradication. For instance, Sprayaway is an aerosol spray designed specially for killing dust mites and bed bugs, as well as ticks, fleas, and mites. It can be used on furniture, linens, carpeting, and any other surface affected by these pests. Pronto spray is another dust mite and bed bug killer, designed to be used after vacuuming the home. Vacuum thoroughly, then spray this product on carpet, linens, furniture, and any other infested areas.