Dr. Murphy, PA Allergist on Avoiding Dust Mites

WEST CHESTER, Pa. - July 8, 2013 - PRLog -- Dust mites are in the same family as ticks and spiders. They feed off our skin scales and other debris found in “dust” around our homes, in our bedding (pillows and mattress) and carpet, and on upholstered furniture. Dust mites thrive in environments around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with 70% relative humidity. In other words, they do quite well in most households. If you are allergic to dust mites, you’re most likely allergic to their waste. How can you best avoid
dust mites?

Avoidance Steps:

• Use hypoallergenic covers (“dust mite covers“) for bedding     (pillows, mattress, box spring)

 • Keep humidity levels at 45% or lower

• Before cleaning dusty areas, wet the dust to prevent mites   from spreading or traveling to other areas

• Keep your home clean by vacuuming at least every other day   and dusting daily. If you can, use a vacuum with a built in   HEPA filter to filter the air that is being disturbed by the   vacuum.

 •  Wash all bedding in 140-degree hot water at least
   twice a month

 •  Ideally, remove all carpeting and install hard wood floors

•  Opt for leather furniture