8 Easy Methods for Getting Rid of Dust Mites Naturally 

Dust mites may be microscopic, but they can significantly impact your home—especially if you have allergies. Fortunately, you don’t need harsh chemicals to eliminate these tiny pests. There are plenty of methods for getting rid of dust mites naturally.

Prevention is key when dealing with dust mites. In this article, we’ll cover eight easy methods for getting rid of dust mites naturally and the pros and cons of each approach.

Regularly Wash Textiles

Washing your bedding, curtains, and other textiles in hot water each week is the best strategy for getting rid of dust mites naturally. You can use natural laundry soap for this approach; what really matters is the water temperature.

Wash your textiles in water that’s over 131°F (55°C) each week. Studies show that cold water is ineffective in killing dust mites, regardless of whether you use detergent.

If you prefer cold water for laundry, throw your bedding into the dryer on high for 15-20 minutes after the laundry cycle is complete. Freezing temperatures will also kill dust mites, though it takes 24-plus hours of exposure.

Wipe Down Surfaces Regularly

Make it a habit to wipe down all the surfaces in your home at least once per week. Dust is the main food source for dust mites; the less dust that accumulates, the less dust mites in your home.

Don’t make the mistake of using a dry cloth to wipe up dust. While dry cloths remove dust from the surface, they also spread particles into the air. These floating particles will exacerbate allergies and settle again later.

Instead, use a warm cloth dampened with a mix of white vinegar and water. The vinegar will help cut through the oils and grime that accumulate and mix with the dust while trapping dry particles. Microfiber cloths are also helpful for trapping dust while protecting sensitive surfaces.

Declutter Your Belongings

Another proactive strategy for getting rid of dust mites naturally is to declutter your belongings and embrace the minimalist lifestyle. The fewer surfaces for dust to settle and accumulate, the less likely you will attract dust mites. This approach also means less time spent cleaning!

Change Air Filters Regularly

Stay on top of cleaning your air filters and vacuuming vents. Air filters trap particulate matter and help keep clean air flowing into your home. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends you change your air filter every three months; however, change it more often if you have pets or live in a dusty location.

Similarly, vacuuming vents will remove accumulated dust so it doesn’t spread through your home every time you turn on the heat or air conditioning.

Schedule Annual Steam Cleaning

Unfortunately, you can’t throw a sofa or mattress in the laundry like a sheet set. Set a reminder to rent a steam cleaner at least once yearly to tackle other home textiles, like upholstery and carpet.

Steam cleaning uses hot water to remove debris and kill dust mites. While many steam cleaners have solutions with chemicals in them, you can find natural alternatives or rely on hot water.

Keep Windows Shut During Dry Seasons

Opening the window for a breath of fresh air is a lovely way to make your home feel clean and healthy. However, it also opens your home to dust from external sources.

Consider keeping your windows shut during peak pollen season to help prevent build-up that will inevitably attract mites. If you live in a dusty area with dirt roads or a dirt driveway, you should keep exposed windows closed during the dry season.

If humidity control is an issue or you live in a humid area, keeping the windows shut throughout the summer will also help get rid of humidity-loving dust mites.

Lint Roll Window Screens

Keeping your windows closed during certain seasons is just one part of the puzzle—cleaning your screens after peak pollen or dust season passes is also essential.

Use a lint roller to remove any accumulated dust and debris from your screens. Alternatively, you can remove the screens and wash them with hot water and vinegar. These strategies prevent accumulated dust from blowing through the screen and introducing dust into your house.

Prioritize Air Quality Control

The better your air quality, the less likely dust mites will be a problem.

As mentioned previously, humidity is a factor in attracting dust mites. Keeping your home dry—at or below 50%—will help eliminate dust mites.

Using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your home will also help improve the air quality throughout your home and reduce dust and particulate matter.

Don’t forget that you can decorate with indoor plants to help improve the air quality and remove toxins from the air! Don’t worry; they’re worth the extra dusting.

Methods for Getting Rid of Dust Mites: A Summary

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