House Dust Mite Facts
Allergies are caused by a variety of different things. Pets, insects, and plants can all cause sneezing, itchiness, and other annoying reactions. However, one of the most common causes of allergies comes from something we can’t even see: dust mites. These pests are found in dust created from everyday activities and are found in most homes across the United States. Two species exist in this country: the North American house dust mite and the European house dust mite.
House Dust Mite Bites
Humans may be irritated by the presence of mites because of the proteins contained within their skin and droppings. Cleaning, walking on carpet, or making the bed will cause the particles to become airborne and inhaled. A dust mite allergy includes itching, watery eyes, and sneezing. House dust mites do not bite or live in your skin.
House Dust Mite Infestation
House dust mites love homes that are warm and humid, developing particularly well in temperatures ranging from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Female mites will lay around 50 cream-colored eggs covered in a substance that sticks to where the eggs will hatch. The life cycle from egg to adult takes between three and four weeks. Adult mites will live for about one to two months. It is possible to find thousands of mites in only a gram of dust. These mites absorb moisture through their skin and are prone to dehydration. If a home is very dry, the mite will not survive humidity below 50%.
Types of House Dust Mites
House Dust Mite Identification
House dust mites, when they reach adulthood, are around 0.5 millimeters long. They can usually only be seen with the help of a microscope. House dust mites are spherical and are either clear or white in color with hair on their legs and bodies. It is difficult to tell if you have house dust mites because of their size, however, dust samples may be collected and analyzed with kits for drug and allergy supply stores. These kits will reveal the level of mites through a combination of dust samples from your home and substances that will react with these mites. Findings may be confirmed by doctors through skin and blood tests.
Common types of house dust mites are American house dust mite, European house dust mite and Mayne’s house dust mite
House Dust Mites in the Home & the Apartment
Most homes in the United States provide optimum conditions for the survival of the house dust mite because allergenic flakes like dander and dead skin cells are continually present, and are their main source of food. Because pets and humans are the primary sources of these flakes, the house dust mite is most commonly found in beds, sofas, chairs, and carpeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Control a House Dust Mite Infestation?
It is very difficult to remove the house dust mite. However, it is possible to alter your environment to reduce their presence. You might consider replacing furniture that will harbor mites with furnishings that are easy to clean. Any furniture that has fabric is susceptible to harboring mites, particularly rugs and carpeting. Flooring like hardwood, tile, or linoleum are better choices. Do not allow allergy-prone children to sleep or play with stuffed or fabric-covered toys.
It may also help to lower the humidity of the home. Improve ventilation by opening windows, and use a dehumidifier if possible.
Clean your house regularly. Vacuuming is one of the most effective ways to help reduce dust, dander, and a small percentage of mites. When you vacuum, use a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor) filter so allergens remain in the bag. However, vacuuming may also circulate allergens back into the air, so this may decrease its benefits.
Chemicals are not usually necessary to manage the house dust mite. Cleaning and other non-toxic approaches are your best bet to reduce their presence in your home.
What are the Benefits of Professional House Dust Mite Pest Control?
A pest management professional has the education, equipment, and skills necessary to effectively address a house dust mite problem.
Killing dust mites can be challenging, especially if they are spread throughout your home.
A pest management professional provides their expertise to identify the pest problem and determine the best possible solution to resolve the house dust mite infestation.