Dust Mite Avoidance Measures
House dust mites (HDM) are microscopic (not visible to naked
eyes) insects which feed on sloughed human skin. Optimal HDM growth
conditions include a relative humidity of more than 50 % and a
temperature between 65°F-75°F.
Locations of highest HDM infestation include pillows, mattresses,
box springs, carpet, soft upholstered furniture, draperies and
stuffed animals/toys.
Avoidance
measures: Priorities:
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Encase mattress and all pillows in
allergen-proof cover (vinyl or 6 μm micro denier, or fabric
backed with vinyl or urethane membrane). |
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Wash bed linens weekly in hot water (130°F)
and damp wipe the mattress cover weekly. |
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Encase box spring in vinyl plastic. |
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Reduce clutter/toys/other collections in
bedroom. |
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Vacuum or dust weekly (wear mask and leave
area for 20 minutes after cleaning). Use vacuum cleaners
that incorporate a double-thickness bag and HEPA filter leak
little allergen. |
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Use Filtrete (3M) or “microclean” (DuPont)
filters to reduce allergen leakage from vacuum cleaner. |
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Place stuffed animals in freezer overnight,
or hot water wash weekly. |
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Hang bulky comforter/bedspread outside in
dry, subzero weather. |
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Clean or replace heat/air conditioner filter
as per manufacturer’s instructions (Pleated 1-inch paper
filters are more effective than loosely packed fiber
filters). |
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Avoidance: Long-term modifications:
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Reduce indoor relative humidity (RH) with
air conditioning or dehumidifier (30%-45% RH). Humidity can
also be controlled by increasing ventilation if the outdoor
conditions are cold and/or dry. |
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Replace carpet with polished flooring (wood,
vinyl, linoleum or tile). |
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Replace upholstered furniture with leather,
vinyl, wood or plastic. |
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Replace drapery with wipable shades/blinds
or washable curtains. |
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Avoid living in basement or in room with
cement slab floor. Bedrooms should be preferably upstairs. |
Your physician may recommend other measures like medications and
allergy injections to better control the symptoms.
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