Dust mites are tiny critters that thrive in warm, humid environments, feeding on dead skin cells. While memory foam mattresses may have a structure less conducive to mites than traditional innerspring mattresses, they are not immune.
As mentioned, memory foam mattresses are often marketed as being able to prevent dust mites, due to them being anti-allergen. Unfortunately, although they may be somewhat resistant to the mites, the mattress isn't the only place that they can live.
Latex is naturally hypoallergenic. It goes a long way in preventing the growth of mildew, mold, and dust mites. Latex mattresses are ideal for those sensitive to synthetic materials and chemicals, those who are eco-conscious, and those with dust mite allergies.
Tightly woven covers and plastic prevent mite penetration, whereas nonwoven, loosely woven, acaricide-coated, and laminated materials do not.
Bed bugs can also live on memory foam mattresses. Although memory foam protects against dust and dust mites thanks to its compact construction, bed bugs tend to live on the surface, on the underside and edges of the mattress.
Results: We found mite feces in 15 (40.5%) of the dust samples from the foam mattresses without covers and 18 (26.3%) of the foam mattresses with covers.
However, consider a latex mattress for your next purchase. Natural latex has many benefits, along with being resistant to pests like bed bugs. It is extremely durable, which means you can use it for decades, unlike memory foam mattresses, which last about 10 years at most.
Reduce Humidity: Dust mites hate dry air. Utilize dehumidifiers to maintain an environment where they cannot thrive.
Combine Clove, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Peppermint or Rosemary oil with water in a spray bottle and spray your bed, linens, and other furniture lightly with a fine mist. Once this mixture air dries, the scent should repel dust mites.
Organic cotton, silk, bamboo, and Tencel are top contenders when it comes to keeping allergens like dust mites and mold at bay. Each has its unique qualities—cotton is breathable, silk soothes sensitive skin, bamboo wicks away moisture, and Tencel is both sustainable and naturally resistant to germs and bacteria.
Signs of Dust Mites in a Mattress
Finding dust mite debris such as tiny black or brown specks on the mattress. Feeling itchy skin while you're in bed. Experiencing allergy symptoms while sleeping, such as watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, coughing, or breathing problems2.
Memory foam is resistant to microbes and allergens, but dust mites may still dwell inside memory foam pillows. Use a washable pillowcase or protector to keep out dust, as most memory foam pillows are not machine-washable and can only be spot cleaned.
If you suffer from dust mite allergies, it is important to choose a mattress that can help minimise the presence of dust mites in your sleeping environment. One option to consider is natural latex because of its density and it is thought to naturally resist dust mites.
Dust mites can be a major indoor trigger for people with allergies and asthma. Fortunately, an air purifier effectively removes dust, including dust mite allergens, and can help you breathe easier.
Also, avoid using harsh products such as ammonia and bleach. The best way to sanitize a memory foam mattress is by mixing 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle and lightly misting it onto the mattress. Take special care not to soak the surface. Allow the vinegar mixture to sit for 30 minutes.
Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases and bedcovers in hot water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding can't be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C) to kill the mites.
The chemical that makes house dust mites gather together in defense has been identified as neryl formate, a common scent used in foods and perfumes.
Anti-allergic clothing
Sheets can be made of 100% organic bamboo, as well as anti-allergic linen. Polyester bedspreads, easily washed in hot water, prevent the accumulation of dust mites. The clothes you wear every day should also be made of cotton or bamboo. Carpets made of synthetic fibers help repel dust mites.
Predators. The predators of dust mites are other allergenic mites (Cheyletiella), silverfish and pseudoscorpions.
You can't feel dust mites crawling on you. They're too small. The bugs may catch a lift on your clothes but they don't live on humans. Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about crawling sensations or think you may have dust mite allergy.
1. Peppermint Oil. The strong smell of peppermint is a powerful deterrent for bugs like bed bugs. Create a peppermint spray mixing a few drops of this oil with water and use it in areas prone to bed bug infestations to keep them away.
Lower your risk of getting bedbug bites by wearing long-sleeved pajamas with pants while sleeping. But be mindful that bedbugs can find their way to your skin under loose clothing. So wear pajamas that are more fitted around your ankles and wrists to give you the best protection.
Bed bugs are averse to slick surfaces like glass, plastic, and polished metals and stone.