Next, Dehumidifiers can reduce the number of dust mites and mold spores in your home by eliminating excess moisture in the air. Dust mites can't survive without adequate levels of moisture in the air. We recommend keeping your relative humidity between 40% and 50%.
So, yes a dehumidifier kill dust mites. If your room is not heated and regularly drops below 20C then you will want to consider a Desiccant Dehumidifier. If your room is heated or you live in a warmer part of the country then a compressor dehumidifier is the best option.
A dehumidifier like the Meaco 20L Low Energy Dehumidifier with it's HEPA filter provides an effective combined approach to dealing with the Dust Mite issue.
Do dehumidifiers clean air? A dehumidifier does not clean the air but simply helps to remove excess water from the air. While it may take in some dust from the air through its normal functions, it is not the same as an air purifier.
The most effective combination includes maintaining humidity at 35% to 50%, regular washing of bedding to remove mites and mite allergens, regular vacuuming with a high-efficiency vacuum, use of mattress and pillow encasings, and HEPA filtration if deemed necessary.
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.
Reduce Humidity: Dust mites hate dry air. Utilize dehumidifiers to maintain an environment where they cannot thrive.
Dehumidifiers are not very effective in extremely low temperatures. This is because dehumidifier coils attract water vapor, and if the temperatures drop too low — below 42 degrees Fahrenheit for example — the vapor would freeze, damaging your machine.
An air purifier is your best bet to improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens. A dehumidifier is a clear choice if you're concerned about high humidity levels and potential mold growth. However, if you live in a humid climate or the air in your home feels stifling, a dehumidifier can regulate the humidity level.
They are not a 'whole house' solution
A dehumidifier will give some benefit to the room that its in but will have a limited benefit beyond that. For that reason many homes we survey have more than one unit running in an attempt to keep on top of the humidity.
Dust mites growth is favored where there is moisture. Moisturizing the air with a humidifier creates an environment for dust mites to proliferate. Mold spores are a common trigger for people with allergies. The release of spores is favored by high humidity, which might happen indoors as well as outdoors.
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.
If you suffer from allergies and asthma, dust mites can be a major indoor trigger that make your symptoms worse. Fortunately, an air purifier is great for dust removal, including dust mite allergens, and can help you breathe easier. An air purifier also prevents sickness by killing harmful airborne germs.
If you're dealing with mold, mildew, or dust mite issues, a dehumidifier might be the better choice. However, if you're concerned about airborne particles such as pollen, pet dander, or smoke, an air purifier might be more appropriate.
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.
Dust mites naturally occur in our homes, and it's almost impossible to eliminate them. However, you can reduce their numbers in your home and the need for treatment.
It is perfectly safe to sleep with a dehumidifier on in your bedroom every night, especially if humidity levels are consistently above 50%. Sleeping with a dehumidifier can improve the quality of your sleep.
Keep Your Dehumidifier Away from the Walls
It's easy to assume the best place to put your dehumidifier is against the wall. But it's not! Dehumidifiers suck in and expel air using vents. Blocking any of these vents can reduce your dehumidifier's effectiveness.
Cons of Dehumidifiers
Dehumidifiers collect water meaning they need to be regularly emptied. They also need to be regularly cleaned otherwise black mould can start to grow on the machine , which can induce a wide range of health problems including allergic reactions, lung problems and irritation.
One of the best ways to get rid of dust mites is to wash all your bedding—including sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and duvet covers—on a hot cycle of at least 130 degrees. 2 If you can't wash your bedding in hot water, place it in the dryer for 15 minutes at 130 degrees.
Predators. The predators of dust mites are other allergenic mites (Cheyletiella), silverfish and pseudoscorpions.
Sleep disruption: Dust mite allergies can disrupt sleep patterns, especially if symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, and coughing are more pronounced at night. This can spill over into a long-term health risk, as poor sleep quality can have a negative impact on your overall well-being.