If you have a dust mite allergy, then you know how annoying this simple chore can be! Here are some tips to deal with it for good.
Using a vacuum and microfiber cloth is the most effective way of removing dust from large spaces, according to one study. 84% of Americans experience allergy symptoms in their homes. The most likely cause of these allergies is dust mites.
These mites can be a problem all year round. But people often find their symptoms worsen in the winter as the heating in their homes spreads allergens around. So, let’s find out how to manage a dust mite allergy so you can live comfortably in your home again.
Get tested
Just 28% of people with indoor allergy symptoms think that dust mites are the cause of their symptoms. To be sure you’ve got a dust mite allergy, make an appointment to see your doctor. They may diagnose you based on your reported symptoms. Blood tests and allergy skin tests are also common.
Medication is often a successful treatment for a dust mite allergy, and modern allergy treatment insights include regularly taking antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, oral decongestants, and leukotriene modifiers. If your symptoms are particularly severe, you can also consider immunotherapy or nasal irrigation.
Set a regular cleaning schedule
A study by the American Cleaning Institute found that Americans spend an average of 6 hours per week cleaning their homes. Sadly, this isn’t enough to keep dust mites away and your dust mite allergy under control. Aim to dust twice per week and wear a face mask while you do it as this will prevent your allergy symptoms from flaring up.
Fragrance-free and chemical-free cleaners are recommended for people with allergies as they’re less likely to irritate the airways. Your home cleaning schedule should include washing bed sheets weekly, vacuuming multiple times per week, deep cleaning your mattress twice per year, and washing curtains every 3 months.
Reduce humidity levels
Dust mites love temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees F. Ideal humidity levels for them are 70 to 80%. The higher the humidity in your home, the more dust mites they’ll be and the more allergy symptoms you’ll experience.
One of the best things you can do to get your dust mite allergy under control is reduce the humidity in your home to less than 50%. Using dehumidifiers is a good way to do this as they take in excess moisture.
You should also avoid drying wet washing indoors, open the windows in your home frequently, run your air conditioning, and seal up any leaks in your home. It’s also a good idea to reduce the amount of steam in your home. This means showering at a lower temperature and using lids on pots and pans when cooking.
Dust mite allergies are much more common than you may think. One of the first things you should do to manage your allergy is confirm that dust mites are the cause of it. Once you’ve done this, keep on top of cleaning (especially dusting and vacuuming), and do all you can to deter dust mites from your home.
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