Where Do Dust Mites Go To The Bathroom?
How to Deal with Dust Mites
Ever have nights where you’re waking up itchy, wheezing, or sneezing? It’s possible you’ve got unwelcome company living in your mattress. In the recesses of that older mattress, box spring, and pillows, you might just be sleeping alongside a happy family of millions of dust mites. Unfortunately, these critters are actually the cause of many indoor allergies in both children and adults alike. Indoor allergies, especially those that emanate from your mattress, can have a profoundly negative effect on your sleep and overall health. But fear not, dust mites are a common malady and can be handled easily.
What Exactly are Dust Mites?
Existing on every continent but Antarctica, dust mites are microscopic, eight-legged creatures related to spiders. They’re found in the dust of your house but invisible to the naked eye and they feed on flakes of dead skin and pet dander. In fact, dust mites not only live in your dusty areas, they make up the dust itself. A large percentage of dust particles come from microscopic material of dust mite skin and feces. It’s a little gross to think about, but kind of fascinating, no?
Dust mites are also a very common cause of indoor allergies. It has been estimated that dust mites play a role in around 60% of asthma, eczema, and hay fever cases. Although some individuals are predisposed to dust mite allergies, allergies can also develop in any person over time and should you start to see symptoms of indoor allergies, it is wise to speak to your physician. Anything that can store dust can be home to dust mites. That means upholstered furniture, carpets, curtains, and, of course, mattresses can all be dust mite central.
How Do You Know if You Have Dust Mites?
You probably do have dust mites! Dust mites thrive on the dust from human skin so they’re virtually everywhere that humans are. But if you’re experiencing an increase in any dust mite related symptoms from a night in your bed, there’s a good chance the population of dust mite has gotten bigger than normal and it’s time to take action. Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy nose, mouth, or throat
- Postnasal mucus drip
- Coughing
- Asthma symptoms that get worse, including difficulty breathing, chest tightening, and/or a whistling sound while breathing out
How to Keep Your Mattress Dust-Mite Free
Because we spend so much time on our mattresses, they can often be the places in our homes where dust mites gather the most. But if you’re experiencing any of the negative symptoms associated with dust mites listed above, there’s hope. Follow these suggestions and you’ll soon be sleeping in peace.'
Mattress Covers
A high-quality mattress protector can thwart dust mite allergies by preventing the little critters from entering the warm, cozy confines of your mattress in the first place.
Replace Your Mattress Every Eight Years
After eight years a mattress can double in weight from the accumulation of dead skin cells, body oils, dust mites, and their droppings. If your mattress is over eight years old, it’s definitely time for a new one.
Latex Mattresses
Besides being unbelievably comfortable, latex mattresses are great at protecting you from dust mite allergens because latex wicks away moisture and dust mites thrive in moist environments.
How Do You Get Rid of Dust Mites in the Rest of Your Home?
Like we said, dust mites are everywhere so you can never really get rid of them. However, there are many things you can do to help improve the situation. Regular cleaning, using a dehumidifier, removing carpets and fabric curtains are all ways to reduce the dust mite population in your home.
Worried your mattress might be home to dust mites and ready to purchase a new one? Visit Sit ‘n Sleep near you and let one of our knowledgeable sleep specialists help find the perfect mattress for you.