How to Remove Dust Mites From Mattresses

Dust mites are extremely tiny insects in the same family as ticks and chiggers. Unlike those insects, dust mites do not bite humans. They are a significant source of allergens for many people, however. If you are allergic to dust mites, you will most likely experience sneezing, watery eyes or a runny nose. People who are very sensitive to dust mites can develop severe respiratory problems. Prevention is the best way to alleviate the problems associated with dust mites. While they live in all types of soft furnishing, including carpeting and upholstery, they prefer living in mattresses and bedding.

Vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter
Plastic or vinyl allergy covers for mattress, box spring and pillows
Heavy-duty laundry detergent
Dehumidifier

Instructions

- 1
  Remove all bedding and mattress coverings from the bed. If you have a dust ruffle between your mattress and box spring you should also remove that and wash it as you will the rest of your bedding.
- 2
  Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to vacuum the mattress and box spring. Vacuum both sides of the mattress and the box spring. Use the crevice attachment to vacuum all of the seams.
- 3
  Put plastic or vinyl allergy covers onto the box spring, mattress and pillows. You can find these in the same stores that sell bedding, or you can find them at health stores.
- 4
  Wash all of your bedding weekly in very hot water with heavy-duty laundry detergent. The heat actually kills the mites, and the water rinses them from the bedding. Be sure to wash not only your sheets, but also your comforter, dust ruffle and any pillow shams.
- 5
  Use a dehumidifier to get your home's humidity level below 50 percent. Dust mites do not tolerate lower humidity levels, and lowering your home's humidity will help to keep them away.
- 6
  Vacuum your home and particularly the bedroom thoroughly on a weekly basis. You will have the best results with a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.

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