Mites are microscopic, sedentary arachnids. There are more than 50, 000 different species, which seek refuge in textiles and clumps of material such as cotton. But these mites are also allergens that, when present in large quantities, can cause skin conditions and, in rare cases, even transmit scabies. Yet these same arachnids are used in the aging of cheese to create a high-quality product, or by forensic scientists to determine the exact time of a person’s death.
These mites thrive and spread in humid environments at moderate temperatures, between 20 and 30°. A temperature-controlled home is therefore the perfect place for them to reproduce, especially when a person sweats slightly while sleeping, bringing the humidity in the sheets, blanket, and pillow to an acceptable level. Many of these mites feed on human skin flakes: dead skin, hair, and nail clippings. They then lay their eggs in their habitat. These eggs hatch very quickly and reach adulthood just as fast. While a mite can live between 2 and 3 months, it takes a female only two to three weeks to lay between 20 and 80 eggs.
It is the feces of these creatures that cause allergies in some people when they breathe them in. You should therefore prevent them from breeding and clean your home regularly: as the carcasses of these tiny spiders decompose, they have the same allergenic properties for humans as their droppings. By creating an environment that is unsuitable or less suitable for their reproduction, you’ll reduce the risk of developing an allergy. There are several options available to help you choose a dust mite-resistant mattress.
The natural latex mattress: a mattress that repels dust mites
There are natural ways to enjoy the benefits of a dust mite-resistant mattress. These methods help treat or prevent the growth of dust mites. Our first tip is also the one that requires the least effort and offers the greatest benefits: using a 100% natural latex mattress.
A natural latex mattress is naturally dust mite-resistant. Latex is an extremely breathable material, which reduces the risk of sweating—a condition that promotes dust mite reproduction. But it’s not just a natural dust mite-resistant mattress.
In fact, a natural latex mattress is a high-quality mattress that provides the best possible sleep. A latex mattress is suitable for all body types. It offers excellent back support without being too firm, so it doesn't interfere with sleep.
Finally, natural latex mattresses are hypoallergenic and antifungal.
Tips for Getting Rid of Dust Mites
Buying a dust mite-resistant mattress is, of course, not the only way to get rid of dust mites. Here’s a natural tip to help you fight them: when you wash your sheets, you can add essential oils with anti-dust mite properties to your laundry detergent. This is an excellent way to protect yourself from dust mites without having to replace your mattress, especially if the one you currently have works very well for your sleep.
Instead of doing a full load of laundry, you can simply make your own spray to apply to your pillow and sheets to eliminate any dust mites. The basic recipe is easy to make: add 20 ml of denatured alcohol to about 60 drops of lemon or tea tree essential oil, then add 60 drops of clove, 60 drops of cedarwood, and 60 drops of true lavender. Mix everything together, then spray it onto your sheets and pillow before letting them dry. An hour later, you can vacuum up all the dead dust mites with your vacuum cleaner.
Protecting Yourself Against Dust Mites
In addition to using a dust mite-resistant mattress, there are also ways to prevent dust mites from taking hold—or at least to slow their spread. While a natural latex mattress remains the most practical solution and the most effective in the long run, there are certain steps you can take to protect your bedding from an infestation.
- Rooms with beds should be aired out regularly. This will reduce humidity in your home and lower the temperature below a level that dust mites can tolerate.
- Clean your home. Vacuum at least once a week, including mattresses and armchairs. This will remove a large portion of the dust mites from their habitats and slow down any potential proliferation.
- Wash your sheets at 60°C to ensure you eliminate all the dust mites that have taken up residence there. If you have any, your stuffed animals may also harbor a staggering number of these critters. You can kill them simply by putting them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
In short, a clean, well-lit home that is regularly aired out will prevent dust mites from multiplying. We still suggest you consider purchasing a anti-dust mite mattress such as a natural latex mattress to effortlessly minimize dust mite infestations. You’ll also enjoy exceptional sleeping comfort.
Finally, the choice of box spring is an important consideration. Avoid bed bases that are covered. If possible, opt for uncovered slats, which will improve the breathability of your bedding.
We hope you enjoyed this article.
Naturally, the Kipli Team
* Poor sleep is strongly associated with house dust mite-induced allergic rhinitis in adults and children - August 16, 2017