Environmental Control Measures for Reducing Dust Mite Exposure

Environmental Control

Once an allergy has been identified, the next step is to decrease or eliminate exposure to the allergen. This is called environmental control. Evidence shows that allergy and asthma symptoms may improve over time, if the recommended environmental control changes are made. Many of the changes are for the entire home. The bedroom is the most important, because the bedroom is where people usually spend 1/3 to 1/2 of their life.


Steps to Control Dust Mite Allergens

	Enclose the mattress and boxsprings in a dust-proof encasing. Dust-proof encasings have a layer of material that keep the dust mites inside the encasing. If there is more than one mattress in the bedroom, all mattresses should be encased.
	Wash all bedding weekly in hot water (above 70°C).
	Put the pillows and blankets in zippered dust proof encasings and/or wash the pillows weekly with the bedding.
	Avoid lying on upholstered furniture or carpet.

Other Helpful Suggestions

	Remove carpeting from the bedroom.
	Use wood, leather or vinyl furniture instead of upholstered furniture in the bedroom.
	Vacuum or wash the floor frequently. The person with a dust mite allergy should not be in a room while it is being cleaned.
	Keep the indoor moisture low. The ideal humidity level is 30-40%. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier in warm climates to decrease the humidity. Clean the dehumidifier regularly.
	Humidifiers/vaporizers are not recommended because they will increase humidity in the room and create a favorable environment for dust mites.
	Chemical solutions may be helpful. Acaricides (a chemical that kills dust mites) must be applied regularly to carpeting or upholstered furniture. This solution will not remove any preexisting mite droppings. A tannic acid solution, applied as directed, can help neutralize the allergen in mite droppings. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional medications, therapies or other environmental controls. Exposure to dust mites can make allergy, asthma and/or eczema symptoms worse in some people. To avoid these problems, follow the above steps to decrease or eliminate exposure.