Dust Mites are microscopic arachnids (like spiders, scorpions and the like). Speaking of the type that thrive in America, dust mites are about 1/100th of an inch long. They feed on dead flakes (cells) of human skin that we shed by the hundreds of thousands each day. Dust mites thrive in room temperatures, and are commonly found in mattresses, pillows, sofas, rugs, and carpets. A typical used mattress contains 100,000 to 10 million dust mites, plus their fecal matter. It is commonly rumored that a typical 10-year-old mattress will be double its original weight due to the sheer volume. But there is little scientific evidence to support the claim.
Dust mites do not attack people; nor do they bite. But an enzyme found in their fecal matter is a powerful allergen. It is related directly to asthma, coughing, and wheezing.
Prevention/Elimination
Allergy sufferers often find significant relief by eradicating dust mites from their home. Some steps that can be taken:
Mattresses:
Fully encase your box spring - and your mattress - with a dust-mite proof "Allergy Cover". The threads in these covers are woven tight enough that even a dust mite cannot penetrate.
Fully encase your box spring - and your mattress - with a dust-mite proof "Allergy Cover". The threads in these covers are woven tight enough that even a dust mite cannot penetrate.
Chemical treatment:
Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate), which may cause eye irritation
Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate), which may cause eye irritation
Upholstered Furniture:
Vacuum and clean often
Vacuum and clean often
Carpets: Replace with as much hard surface flooring as possible
Keep Smilin'!
Keep Smilin'!
Sources:
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