How to Get Rid of Dust Mites

Mon Dec 30 2024

Mattress Guides

If you wake up stuffy and sneezy, dust mites might be the reason. These tiny, invisible bugs love to hang out where you sleep. They feed on dead skin cells and can trigger allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, runny noses, and morning congestion.

That sounds gross, right? But don’t worry. You can take some easy steps to control them and make your mattress fresh again. Let’s break down how.

What Are Dust Mites?

Dust mites are teeny-tiny creatures that live in mattresses, pillows, carpets, and even plush toys. They won’t bite or sting you, but their waste can cause big-time allergy trouble. If you or someone in your home deals with sneezing fits, watery eyes, or worsened asthma at night, dust mites might be lurking.

What Makes Beds So Cozy for Dust Mites?

Warmth and humidity (sweaty sleep + body heat)
Soft, fibrous materials like cotton sheets and pillow fillings
Plenty of dead skin cells (their main source of food)

Bedzzz Tip: If your bedroom often feels humid, consider running a dehumidifier or AC unit. A less humid room makes dust mites less comfortable.

Signs You May Have Dust Mites

Wondering if dust mites live with you? Look out for these signs:

Morning sniffles or congestion that fade as you leave the bedroom
Itchy, red, or watery eyes upon waking
Worsening asthma or eczema symptoms at night
Frequent sneezing fits around your bed or bedroom

If you notice these symptoms popping up regularly, it may be time to step up your dust mite defense.

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites: 6 Simple Steps

Kick those mites out by making small changes. The key is to be consistent and focus on what really makes a difference.

1. Wash Your Bedding Every Week

Hot water (around 130°F or higher) kills dust mites. Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets weekly in hot water whenever possible. This helps remove mites, eggs, and the debris they leave behind.

Bedzzz Tip: If your bedding can’t handle hot water, try a special allergen-fighting laundry additive or swap it out for bedding that can.

2. Use Dust-Mite-Proof Covers

Invest in a zippered, dust-mite-proof mattress encasement and pillow protectors. These cover your bed and pillows in a tightly woven fabric. Mites can't squeeze through, which helps keep them from nesting deep inside.

3. Upgrade Your Mattress

If it’s time to replace your mattress, you may be dealing with dust mites. Old mattresses can trap moisture and debris, making a perfect home for mites. Consider switching to a mattress with dense memory foam or hypoallergenic features. These often resist mite infestations better than traditional innerspring mattresses.

At Bedzzz Express, we offer a variety of memory foam mattresses designed to keep your bed fresh and comfy. Talk to our sleep experts about options that help keep dust mites away.

4. Keep Humidity in Check

Mites love moist air. Keep your bedroom’s humidity level between 30–50%. Use a dehumidifier, run your AC, or open a window on drier days. Proper airflow can make a big difference.

5. Clean Regularly and Thoroughly

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery at least once a week. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap tiny particles. Dust surfaces with a damp cloth, not a dry duster, to keep allergens from floating around.

Consider removing heavy drapes or carpets that hold onto dust. If that’s not possible, give them a good steam cleaning regularly.

6. Pick Hypoallergenic Bedding

Down or feather pillows feel luxurious, but they can harbor more allergens. Switch to synthetic or latex pillows and comforters. Look for labels like "hypoallergenic" or "dust-mite-resistant."

Bedzzz Tip: When shopping at Bedzzz Express, ask our team about hypoallergenic pillows, mattress protectors, and sheets. These products can help you reclaim your bedroom as an allergen-free zone.

Recommended Mattresses from Bedzzz Express

Dust Mite-Proof Mattress Protectors

Purecare Omniguard Mattress Protector: This mattress protector is a great choice for allergy sufferers. It provides a physical barrier against allergens, dust mites, stains, moisture, mold, and mildew on both the top and sides of your mattress.
DreamFit DreamComfort Mattress Protector: This mattress protector is made to fit traditional, thicker, or adjustable mattresses. Easy to wash and includes StaDry™ moisture-wicking technology.

Hypoallergenic Mattresses

Tempur-Pedic Adapt Mattress (Model: 10746151): Dense foam construction helps reduce dust mite presence while providing amazing pressure relief.
Sealy Posturepedic Mattress (Mode: 52775451): Made with breathable, moisture-wicking materials and allergen-resistant foams.

Allergen-Resistant Bedding

DreamFit DreamChill Pillow: This high-quality pillow includes DreamChill advanced cooling technology and a removable and washable cover for easy care.
PureCare SoftCell Lite Pillow: Soft and ideal for most sleeping positions. This pillow is treated with antimicrobial silver chloride that inhibits bacteria, mold, and mildew that cause deterioration, stains, and odors.

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites in Your Home

Getting rid of dust mites isn’t a one-and-done task. Get rid of dust mites naturally by:

Washing your bedding every week
Regularly vacuuming and dusting your room
Checking your humidity levels
Replacing old bedding and pillows as needed

If you maintain these habits, you’ll keep mites under control. You’ll wake up feeling clearer, breathe easier, and enjoy a cleaner, healthier bed.

Shop Hypoallergenic Mattresses at Bedzzz Express

Dust mites are common, but they don’t have to ruin your sleep. By following these simple steps, you’ll create a more comfortable, allergy-friendly bedroom.

Ready to take the next step? Visit one of our mattress store locations or contact us to explore our selection of hypoallergenic mattresses. Our friendly team is ready to help you find the right products to create an allergen-free sleep environment. Don’t forget to check out our top mattress brands, like Sealy, Beautyrest, Serta, and Purple.

Don’t let dust mites keep you up at night—shop our bedding collection today!

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FAQ: Dust Mites in Mattress

Q: What kills dust mites immediately?
A: Hot water (at least 130°F) kills dust mites. Wash your bedding in hot water regularly. Special laundry additives and professional cleaning can also help.

Q: What scent keeps dust mites away?
A: Some people believe scents like eucalyptus, lavender, or tea tree oil may help repel dust mites. While not guaranteed, these natural aromas can make your room smell fresh.

Q: What should be sprayed on a mattress to prevent dust mites?
A: Look for a spray labeled specifically for dust mite control. Many contain essential oils or gentle chemicals safe for fabrics yet effective against mites.

Q: Can you feel dust mites crawling on you?
A: No. Dust mites are too small to feel or see with the naked eye. If you feel something, it’s likely another insect or simply an itch.

Q: What can be mistaken for dust mites?
A: People often confuse symptoms of dust mite allergies with seasonal allergies or reactions to pet dander. They may also mistake bed bugs or other visible pests for dust mites.