Dust prevention strategies used for beds and bedding include:
- Keeping only one bed in the bedroom. Most importantly, encase box springs and mattress in a zippered dust-proof or allergen-proof cover. Scrub bed springs outside the room. If you must have a second bed in the room, prepare it in the same manner.
- Using only washable materials on the bed. Sheets, blankets, and other bedclothes should be washed frequently in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (lower temperatures will not kill dust mites).
- Washing items at a laundromat that uses high wash temperatures if you set your hot water temperature lower (commonly done to prevent children from scalding themselves).
- Using a synthetic (such as Dacron®) mattress pad and pillow. Avoid fuzzy wool blankets or feather- or wool-stuffed comforters and mattress pads.
Furniture and Furnishings
Dust prevention strategies used for furniture and furnishings include:
- Keeping furniture and furnishings to a minimum
- Avoiding upholstered furniture and blinds
- Using only a wooden or metal chair that you can scrub
- Using only plain, lightweight curtains on the windows.
Dust prevention strategies used for air control include:
- Using air filters (either added to a furnace or a room unit) to help reduce the levels of allergens. Electrostatic and HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorption) filters can effectively remove many allergens from the air. If they don't function correctly, however, electrostatic filters may give off ozone, which can be harmful to your lungs if you have asthma.
- Using a dehumidifier. This may help because house mites need high humidity to live and grow. You should take special care to clean the unit frequently with a weak bleach solution (1 cup bleach in 1 gallon water) or a commercial product to prevent mold growth. Although low humidity may reduce dust mite levels, it might irritate your nose and lungs.
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