Dust Mites

What are House Dust Mites?

These microscopic creatures live in their thousands in warm, moist places and feed on debris and dead skin cells which humans and animals constantly shed.

They are found mainly in our beds and carpets, and in and around pet bedding. Their droppings are very tiny and become airborne easily which then causes an allergic reaction in some people.

When people are “allergic” their immune system reacts in an abnormal way to these specific particles when they inhale or touch them. In a person with asthma they cause the airways to narrow and make it harder to breathe. Other people may have sneezing, blocked nose, itchy eyes and throat (called rhinitis) or get a rash on their skin (called eczema).

Reducing Dust Mites

While there is no such thing as a completely allergy-free home, several things which can be done to reduce the risk of asthma attacks and allergies due to this common irritant.

• Regular washing (at least monthly) of bed linen, blankets, quilts and bedspreads in a eucalyptus solution will help control dust mite colonies. Add Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Dust Mite Wash to the washing machine and soak before washing on a warm cycle. Read more about the Bosisto’s Dust Mite Program.
• If possible expose blankets, quilts, rugs and bedspreads to direct sunlight for several hours each week. Note: A recent study found special allergen bedding covers - DAC covers - were ineffective as a single means of dust mite control.¹
• Smaller items and fluffy toys can be put in a plastic bag and frozen for four hours each fortnight. In between, spray non-machine washable items (including mattresses) with Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray.
• Dust all surfaces 2-3 times a week with a damp cloth moistened with Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Oil or Spray. Avoid chemical cleaning solutions and sprays.
• Make sure rooms are light and well ventilated.
• Have hard floor surfaces and scatter rugs rather than wall to wall carpet (eg. vinyl, cork or wood etc.). Mop floor weekly (hint: a splash of Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Oil in the water is useful and leaves rooms smelling fresh). Vacuum carpets weekly using a cleaner with a good filter system (triple internal, HEPA or replaceable electrostatic) or one that is ducted outside.
• Once a month, use a can of Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Spray to thoroughly coat carpets, rugs and furnishings (including curtains), leave to settle for 1-2 hours then vacuum as normal.