What dust mites are and why they matter
Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in bedding, mattresses, upholstered furniture and carpets. They feed on shed skin cells and prefer warm, humid conditions. They do not bite. The problem for allergic people is the proteins in their droppings and body fragments, which can cause sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes and in some people can trigger asthma symptoms. Droppings can remain allergenic after the mites themselves die, which is why killing mites alone does not always solve the problem.
You may see very large numbers quoted for how many mites live in a mattress. Estimates vary a lot between sources, so treat any single figure with caution.
Where do dust mites come from?
They are present in most homes. They arrive on clothing, bags, pets, secondhand furniture and bedding, and they spread easily. A mattress that looks clean can still have them. Having dust mites does not mean a home is dirty. It is more about warmth, humidity and the amount of skin flakes available as food.
Can you get rid of them completely?
Generally not. Health-oriented sources agree that you can reduce their numbers and your exposure, but cannot realistically remove them all. A combination of steps works better than any single trick.
A practical reduction routine
Wash bedding hot
Washing sheets, pillowcases and blankets weekly in hot water is a standard recommendation (see whether hot water cleans better than cold). Some sources cite at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (about 54 degrees Celsius), others slightly lower, and many items cannot tolerate that heat. Follow the care label first. If an item cannot be washed hot, a hot tumble dry can also help, again within what the label allows. Mattress protectors often should not be washed very hot, so check the label.
Vacuum the mattress
Strip the bed, then vacuum the top, sides and seams with an upholstery attachment. A vacuum with a sealed system and a HEPA filter is generally recommended, since a poor filter can return fine dust to the air. Vacuuming removes dust, skin flakes and some allergens, but it will not remove mites deep inside.
If someone in your home is allergic, they should not be the one to vacuum if you can avoid it, or they should consider wearing a mask and staying out of the room for a while afterwards so dust can settle.
Encase the mattress and pillows
Zippered allergen-proof covers (often called encasements) are widely recommended. They work as a barrier, so mites inside are cut off from skin flakes and allergens are held in. Look for ones labeled as mite-proof and wash them according to their instructions. Because the covers are designed to be tightly woven, choose a breathable one so the bed does not get too hot.
Lower humidity
Mites do better in humid air. Many sources suggest keeping indoor relative humidity below about 50 percent. A basic hygrometer shows what you have, and a dehumidifier or air conditioning can help. Ventilating the bedroom and letting the bed air before making it can also help.
What is the best vacuum for cleaning mattresses?
There is no single best product. Useful features include a HEPA-type filter with a sealed body, a small upholstery nozzle, adjustable or moderate suction, and a design that does not snag fabric. Some specialty mattress vacuums add UV light or vibration, but evidence on how much those extras help is limited, so a good filter and thorough, regular vacuuming matter more.
Can steam kill dust mites?
High-temperature steam can kill mites it reaches, and steam is sometimes used on mattress surfaces. There are caveats. Steam may not penetrate deep into a thick mattress. It adds moisture, which can lead to mold or damage in foam, latex and some covers, and it can void some warranties. If you use steam, check the manufacturer’s instructions first, use it sparingly, and dry the mattress completely. It also does not remove allergens left behind, so vacuuming afterwards is still useful.
Will Lysol kill dust mites?
Product labels vary, so check the label of the exact product. Some disinfectant sprays state they kill bacteria and viruses but may not make claims about dust mites. Dead mites and droppings still contain allergens, so spraying alone is unlikely to fix an allergy problem. If you use any spray on a mattress, make sure the label allows use on mattresses or fabrics, follow the instructions for contact and drying time, ventilate well, and keep children and pets away until it is dry. Do not mix it with other cleaners. Never combine bleach products with ammonia or vinegar.
Sunning, baking soda and other methods
- Sunlight. Traditionally, people air mattresses and bedding in the sun. Sun and fresh air can help with dampness and odors, but it is not a proven way to remove allergens, and strong sun can damage some fabrics and foams.
- Baking soda. It helps absorb moisture and odors before you vacuum. It does not kill mites.
- Anti-mite sprays. Some botanical or specialty products exist. Evidence varies, so treat them as an extra, not a substitute for covers and washing.
- Freezing or heat for small items. Sometimes suggested for stuffed toys. Check labels, and see how to clean plushies.
Safety
- Keep cleaning products away from children and pets and store them in their original containers.
- Do not mix cleaning products, and especially never mix bleach with ammonia, vinegar or other acids.
- Ventilate the room while you work.
- Check the mattress care label before using steam, sprays or liquids.
When to see a doctor or replace the mattress
If someone has asthma or ongoing allergy symptoms, talk to a doctor or allergist about testing and treatment. Cleaning is a support, not a replacement for medical advice. An old, sagging, heavily stained or very worn mattress may be worth replacing, particularly if cleaning has not helped.
Related guides
For smells and general freshening, see how to get smells out of a mattress. For specific mattress materials, see latex mattresses and bamboo-cover mattresses.