What Are the Treatments for Dustmites in Bed Mattresses?

Dust mites live in pillows and mattresses, and feed off dead skin cells. A mattress may contain thousands or even millions of dust mites. Dust mites aggravate both allergies and asthma in some people. Symptoms of a dust mite allergy may include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, coughing, and itchy and watery eyes. Dust mite populations may be significantly reduced through the use of recommended home remedies.

Mattress Covers

• The most effective means of controlling dust mites in mattresses involves covering the mattress and box spring with either a very tightly woven fabric or a vinyl cover. Prior to covering the mattress, thoroughly vacuum the mattress. Covering the mattress prevents dead skin from accumulating on the mattress, which in turn eliminates the dust mites food source. Covering the pillows may also be helpful.

Wash Bed Linens

• If you do not cover the mattress with a plastic cover, consider washing bed linens regularly to reduce the number of dust mites. Wash pillows, blankets, comforters and sheets in hot water at least once every two weeks, preferably once a week, to reduce dust mite accumulation on the bed. Pillows can also be covered with special covers that prevent dust mite infestations.

Vacuuming

• Vacuum bed mattresses and the area around the bed mattress with a HEPA vacuum weekly to help control dust mite populations. Also, vacuum the entire bedroom, along with curtains and other furniture in the bedroom, to help reduce the amount of dust mites living in the bedroom.