Why are Dust Mite Covers still a Smart Bet this Fall?

Dust mites can be a pest year-round, and are particularly worrisome in summer months, but they can get stirred up again in the fall for different reasons — and wreak havoc for the millions of people who have dust allergies. Dust mites thrive in temperatures from 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and also like humidity levels of 70 to 80 percent, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

One of the biggest safe havens for dust mites is in upholstered furniture. Bedding, mattresses, pillows — any plush, porous surface is ripe for a dust mite invasion. Not that you see them — they’re microscopic. But since one of their favorite food sources is flakes of human skin, (yuck!) it makes sense that the dust mites go where there’s plenty of food — like places you’ve been sleeping in or sitting on for long stretches of time. Did you know that the average adult person can shed up to 1.5 grams of skin in a day, which is enough to feed one million dust mites?!

Although you can’t eradicate all dust mites from your home, you can take certain steps to ensure there are as few of them to lessen your dust allergy symptoms. Obviously, limiting your exposure to dust is helpful and many people find relief with over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal corticosteroids. You can also call your doctor and ask about allergy shots. But if you’d rather skip the medication and try to eliminate as much of the problem as possible, there are some steps you can take to de-mite your home!

First, remember that they love fabric and upholstered surfaces, including carpet, rugs and stuffed animals. If dust mites are really an issue, having as few of these in your home is a good start. If you can’t part with you chenille sofa or oriental rug, then keeping them well-vacuumed is a smart alternative. Vacuuming often removes not only the mites (and their feces — yuck!) but also the skin flakes they feed on. Using a good vacuum with a HEPA filter is extremely helpful since the HEPA filter captures and retains some of the tiniest particles.

For items that can be laundered, like blankets, bedding, drapes and toys, washing them in hot water helps kill the dust mites. (Be sure to follow the care instructions on the label, however. Many items might require dry cleaning.)

Going forward, you want to prevent dust mites from returning or accruing, so consider taking measure to keep them out of your home and furniture. The AAFA says that covering mattresses and pillows in zippered dust-proof dust mite covers can help. These covers are made of a material that doesn’t let dust mites through. Plastic or vinyl covers are the most affordable options, but some people find them uncomfortable, so you might want to opt for a softer feeling fabric.

At Allergy Buyers Club, we have great options for every homeowner looking for added dust mite protection.