Get an Allergen-Free Home By Getting Rid of Dust Mites

Carpet is a high-traffic area in any home. It’s where your children play; it’s where you relax after a long day. But it also can be where dust mites and allergens congregate and feed. It’s time you get rid of dust mites for good.

Microscopic in size, large numbers of dust mites can survive in small areas. In fact, about 100,000 dust mites live in one square yard of carpeting, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Aside from carpeting, these tiny creatures live in upholstery and furniture, where they feed on dead skin cells, dirt and other pollutants.

On their own, dust mites are completely harmless. However, large, uncontrolled populations can cause problems. Dust mite droppings contain a certain protein proven to cause allergies and worsen asthma symptoms, including sneezing, watery eyes and runny nose. While not dangerous, these irritating symptoms are easily preventable.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 18.7 million adults and 7 million children either diagnosed with or suffering from asthma. Therefore, regularly (and thoroughly) cleaning carpets, furniture, upholstery and any other crevices in which dust mites can lurk is vital.

Steam cleaning trumps insecticides, carpet shampooing or dry cleaning because the heat completely gets rid of dust mites and their food, which keeps them away longer. Steam cleaning should be performed every six to 12 months and is a safe, chemical-free method of cleaning without harmful side effects for children, allergy sufferers, pets or other loved ones.

By regularly steaming carpet and other fabrics in the home, consumers give themselves an effective method of preventing unnecessary discomfort or future hospital visits.