“Dust mites are incredibly small creatures, ranging in size from 0.1 to 0.5 mm, and they feed on the microscopic detritus of everyday life. These tiny arachnids feed on the dead skin cells we regularly shed, and given their tiny dimensions, their presence may not be that surprising.” Although they do not bite or suck blood like bed bugs or fleas, and are not known to spread disease, dust mites and their droppings have been identified as major household allergens.

For those wondering if they can remove dust mites from carpet, it is important to note that eliminating them completely is almost impossible. However, you can significantly reduce their numbers in your home with the following tips.

How to create an allergen-free home

1. Temperature and humidity control
   Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments with humidity levels greater than 50%. To make your home less suitable for them, you should focus on two main factors: temperature and humidity. Maintain the room temperature between 18-22 degrees Celsius and ensure that the internal humidity does not exceed 40%. There are various ways to achieve this, including using air conditioners, split systems, and devices such as hygrometers to monitor humidity levels.

Frequent ventilation is also crucial. If possible, keep windows open throughout the day to promote air circulation and reduce humidity. While you want to reduce humidity, it is essential to avoid extremely dry air, as dust can become airborne more easily in such conditions. For additional help in reducing allergens in the air, consider using air purifiers, which continually filter out fine dust particles, including dust mites and their debris.

2. Regular wet cleaning
   Wet cleaning should become a weekly ritual in your cleaning routine. Use a damp cloth or mop to clean, making sure to wash with hot running water and soap after use. This approach should not be limited to hard surfaces alone; Make sure to wipe down soft furnishings like sofas and chairs. If your bedding has removable covers, wash them frequently.

For those with carpeted areas, a simple and effective method involves using an old, damp cloth to cover the area, then hitting it well with a carpet hammer. You will be surprised at the amount of dust that collects on the paper. Wash it regularly with hot water and rinse under running water to ensure dust mites are completely removed from the fabric.

3. Home cleaning spray
   Another effective way to eliminate dust mites is to make a household cleaning spray. Mix two cups of distilled water with two teaspoons of tea tree oil and store it in a dark bottle. Shake the bottle before each use to ensure the oil is evenly distributed. This spray should be used not only on furniture surfaces but also on carpets, rugs and upholstery.
4. The importance of a proper vacuum cleaner
   Wet cleaning alone cannot replace the need for vacuuming. A good vacuum cleaner is essential for removing dust from upholstered furniture and carpets. Without a proper vacuum, a steam cleaner can turn dry dirt into slurry. Do not forget to vacuum the curtains, as they accumulate dust, especially if they are close to the windows.

For those with dust mite allergies, a regular vacuum may not be enough. It is necessary to focus on upholstered furniture, which serves as a haven for dust mites. These soft furnishings provide the perfect living environment for these allergens. Consider investing in a steam washing vacuum, which uses steam to kill dust mites on upholstered furniture and floor coverings. Make sure your vacuum cleaner is equipped with a HEPA filter to reduce dust emissions.

Remember that you should vacuum more frequently than wet cleaning. Even if you think there’s not a lot of dust, for microscopic creatures like dust mites, a few vacuuming sessions a week will be enough.

Dust mites tend to accumulate in specific areas, including rugs in front of the front door, under beds and other furniture with legs, and around furniture without legs. To prevent dust mite buildup, rearrange your soft furnishings periodically.

For those with allergies, wearing a medical mask while vacuuming can help reduce exposure to allergens.

5. Proper bedding care
   Bedding can be a haven for dust mites, as it is estimated that an average-sized bed can be home to between 100,000 and 10 million dust mites. To eliminate these pests, it is necessary to wash bedding frequently. Dust mites die at temperatures above 60°C, so wash bedding at higher temperatures whenever possible. Additionally, adding a few drops of essential oils such as tea tree or eucalyptus can help prevent these little spiders from taking up residence in your sheets and blankets.

In conclusion, although you cannot completely eliminate dust mites from your home, you can take proactive steps to significantly reduce their presence. By controlling temperature and humidity, and implementing it