Dust mites are so small that you can't see them, but these tiny creatures live in everyone's house. They aren't likely to cause eczema on their own. However, they can cause an eczema flare-up in people who already have it. Dust mites themselves aren't the problem, though: It's a protein in their droppings that causes irritation in people who are sensitive to it.
The best thing you can do if you're sensitive to dust mites is avoid exposure to them. You can't completely rid your home of dust mites, but you can cut down on their numbers.
In the Bedroom
There are more dust mites in your bedroom than any other room in the house. Their main source of food is the skin flakes you shed. Here are some ways you can cut down on dust mites in your bedroom:
Use bed covers
Put allergen-proof bed covers on your mattress and box springs. These are covers of tightly woven fabric designed to encase your mattress. This serves the dual function of preventing dust mites from getting into your mattress and preventing the ones that are already there from getting out.
Wash weekly
Wash your sheets, blankets, pillows, pillow cases, and other bedding every week. The water needs to be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit to kill the dust mites. For bedding that can't be washed, putting it in a hot dryer for 15 minutes or freezing it overnight will also kill any dust mites.
Choose washable bedding
Avoid bedding that's difficult to clean or traps dust. Choose simple bedding that will hold up despite frequent washing.
Remove habitats where dust mites thrive
Dust mites live in humid, dusty environments. Carpet, especially if it's over concrete, upholstered furniture, and draperies provide optimal living conditions for dust mites. Consider replacing the carpet in your bedroom with wood, tile, or vinyl flooring.
In the Rest of the House
Although dust mites are most numerous in the bedroom, they're also in the rest of your house. Here are some steps you can take to get rid of them throughout your house:
Vacuum and dust frequently
Vacuum your carpets and rugs several times weekly. Vacuum soft furniture once a week. When you vacuum your furniture, pay special attention to the seams, as this where dust mites tend to collect. Dust hard surfaces with a damp duster daily if possible.
Reduce humidity
Use a dehumidifier or air condition to keep the humidity levels in your home below 50 percent. You can check humidity levels with a hygrometer, which is available at hardware stores.
Avoid clutter
Since dust is a breeding ground for dust mites, avoid having items out in the open that collect dust. Either remove knickknacks, books, and magazines or put them in a protected cabinet to reduce dust.
