Repelling Mites in Bedrooms

Repellents

• Some repellents are safe for use on the home, including the carpet, entryways and all around the perimeter of a bedroom. Eucalyptus oil is an effective mite repellent and may be used on pets, humans, clothing and all around the home. The substance also repels fleas and mosquitoes. Linalool, a substance found in cinnamon and sassafras, is an effective repellent of mites, ticks and spiders, and can be used on the carpet of your bedroom to repel mites. Neem oil, which is most often used on plants, kills and repels spider mites in indoor or outdoor environments.

Preventing Mites

• The best method for preventing mites from entering your bedroom depends on the type of mite you’re dealing with. Clover mites spread from vegetation that is touching the walls of your house and usually invade a home in response to extreme temperature changes. Establish at least 1 foot of bare soil free of plants around your house or spray a barrier of insecticide. Dust mites, which feed on dust, can be reduced with regular vacuuming and cleaning of furniture. Mites on pets can be reduced with application of repellents as well as use of safe, approved insecticides. General cleanliness is essential no matter what type of mites you’re dealing with.

Miticides

• To deal with an existing population of mites and prevent their growth, use a safe insecticide registered for indoor use. Neem oil is a known insecticide that is considered safe for indoor and outdoor use and effectively kills spider mites and other types of mites. Soybean oil is made into concentrated formulas and is used on mites on plants. Pyrethrin is also considered a safe insecticide that kills mites and other pests and can be used safely indoors.

Dust Mites

• One of the most common mites in the bedroom are dust mites. Though these creatures do not feed on humans directly, as many mites do, they can be a nuisance due to the allergic reaction they cause in many people. To get rid of the seemingly ubiquitous creatures, install a filter in your heating vent composed of cheese cloth or place non-allergic mattress covers on your bed. Wash bedding and vacuum carpets regularly.