What Are Dust Mite Prevention Techniques That Work?

Just about 80 percent of American homes have some level dust mite allergens— whether that’s in beds, carpets, or other fabric and upholstery. While a certain amount of dust mite allergen is normal and in fact, expected, there are methods you can use to reduce their volume, and more importantly, the allergy and asthma symptoms that often come with them.

Besides generally being gross, dust mites are nearly ubiquitous in our lives, and cause many common allergy symptoms. They’re also notorious for aggravating respiratory conditions like asthma. A microscopic pest that lives in mattresses, bedding, furniture, carpets, dust mites can survive in and on pretty much anything that has upholstery in a home.

While they don’t bite, like bed bugs, they can cause skin rashes and allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing, runny nose, itchy eyes, postnasal drip, and more. Depending on your individual sensitivity, these symptoms could be severe, especially if you have asthma or other respiratory difficulties.

So how do you get rid of dust mites in your house? There are three key areas to focus on in order to reduce the impact dust mites and their allergens have on your home, and your life:

One of the most important steps you can take to prevent and control dust mites in your home is to be aware of the air flow in your home. Mites and other allergens like pollen can come into the home when you use attic fans or have open windows. On the other hand, using the air conditioner minimizes allergens entering the house and if you have an air purifier, this can prevent mites and pollens entirely. During the winter, changing your furnace filter regularly, and swapping it for a HEPA filter, can reduce the impact of dust mite allergens. Vent and duct cleaning can also minimize the amount of circulating dust, mites, and allergens.

Leaky air ducts can pull in dust, pollen, and even insulation particles from unconditioned areas like your attic or crawl space—introducing more allergens into your home. Over time, this unfiltered air becomes a breeding ground for dust mites. Sealing your ducts not only helps with energy efficiency, but it also ensures that the air circulating in your home is filtered, clean, and less likely to carry dust mite debris. If you’re noticing uneven airflow or dust buildup near vents, it could be a sign that your ducts need sealing. There are also ductless options for air conditioning.

Dust mites thrive in humid environments—particularly when indoor humidity levels rise above 50%. That’s why a professionally installed whole-home dehumidifier or humidity control system can be a game-changer for allergy sufferers. By keeping your indoor humidity between 30%–50%, you make your home less hospitable to dust mites and other allergens. Many modern HVAC systems can be upgraded with integrated humidity control to help automate this balance year-round, improving comfort and respiratory health.

Changing and removing some of the upholstery in your home is a particularly effective dust mite prevention technique because it limits the available habitat mites have to live in. For example, if you suffer from serious allergies, you may consider removing wall-to-wall carpeting in favor of smaller, washable area rugs. Most hot water washing cycles kill dust mites which allows you to keep areas cleaner than you can in a carpeted space.

Heavy drapes can support large quantities of dust mites, so changing them out for vinyl blinds or removable, washable curtains can go a long way to improving your indoor air quality.

As you might imagine, keeping everything clean is an important dust mite prevention technique — if you don’t already, try to establish a cleaning schedule that includes steam cleaning carpets if you have them. Wash sheets and bedding in hot water at least every 2 weeks and preferably once per week to prevent dust mite build up. Launder pillows, blankets, comforters, rugs, drapery, and cushions once a month on average.

At Same Day, we specialize in more than just fast service—we help San Diego homeowners breathe easier. Whether you’re dealing with persistent dust allergies or simply want a cleaner, more comfortable indoor space, our team can inspect, clean, and optimize your HVAC system to reduce dust mite triggers. From duct sealing and HEPA filtration to humidity control and allergen-blocking filters, we’re here to improve your air quality—every season of the year.

We’re experienced at working with home warranties to help you get the most out of your coverage.  For more information about keeping your HVAC system running as effectively, and efficiently, as possible, schedule online today or chat with one of our experts (619) 762-3044.