These microscopic critters are tiny but mightyand can wreak a lot of havoc on the body if left unchecked.
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Are you extra sneezy lately?
Have watery eyes and a runny nose on top of this?
Photo:scyther5 / Getty Images
Theres a chance youre experiencing allergy symptoms because of dust mites, especially if you have asthma.
), It’s an ongoing challenge to eliminate them.
What Exactly Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are microscopic, insect-like pests that thrive off dead human and animal skin cells.
How Do I Know I Have Dust Mites?
Skin Irritation
Are you super itchy or noticing redness?
This might be because your skin is reacting to dust mites or their waste.
Decluttering can also offer fewer surfaces for dust mites to collect and make dusting an easier task.
Curtains, drapes, pillows, and stuffed animals should also get tossed in the wash as well.
(These covers wont let dust mites through because the pores are too small.)
She recommends wiping covers with a damp cloth weekly.
FYI Dr. Arias says air purifiers do not actually work to reduce dust mites.
So it’s possible for you to probably skip this equipment, at least in the bedroom.
DApolito recommends using a damp washcloth or microfiber cloth to really trap and lock dust.
(Never use a dry cloth, as it stirs up allergens.)
She adds that you should dust rooms from top to bottom, on a weekly basis.
Tackle ceiling fans and light fixtures at least monthly, and dont forget air vents!
Window frames and sills also harbor tons of pollen, mildew, and dust mites.
Clean them weekly by vacuuming andwet-mopping them.
DApolito says there are professional pest control services, like Orkin, that can provide dust mite removal.
