Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in household dust. They feed on dead skin cells that people and pets shed daily. Dust mites are a common cause of year-round allergy and asthma symptoms. Getting rid of dust mites can reduce allergy and asthma triggers in the home.
What are dust mites?
Dust mites are tiny arachnids, related to spiders and ticks. There are two common species:
- Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
- Dermatophagoides farinae
Adult dust mites are about 0.2-0.3 mm long. They are white or translucent. Under a microscope, they have eight legs and round bodies. Dust mites do not bite humans. They feed on dead skin cells shed from people and pets. These skin cells make up part of house dust.
Dust mites thrive in warm, humid environments. They prefer temperatures around 70-80°F with 70-80% humidity. In cooler or drier conditions, dust mites become less active and may die off. They are most abundant in bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpeting.
Why get rid of dust mites?
For most people, dust mites are harmless. But their feces and decaying bodies can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms in sensitive people. Reactions are caused by inhaling dust mite allergens. Symptoms may include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Nasal congestion
- Itchy nose, throat, or roof of mouth
- Coughing
- Facial pressure and pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
Dust mite allergies are a common trigger for asthma. Reducing exposure can lessen asthma symptoms. Controlling dust mites may also help treat atopic dermatitis (eczema).
How can hydrogen peroxide kill dust mites?
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that can kill germs, bacteria, viruses, and other microscopic organisms. As a strong oxidizer, hydrogen peroxide destroys the outer cell membrane of these creatures. This disrupts the organism’s metabolism and causes cell death.
Studies show that hydrogen peroxide effectively kills dust mites. In lab tests, hydrogen peroxide solutions between 0.5% and 5% eradicated over 80% of dust mites. Increased concentration and longer contact times improve dust mite control.
Hydrogen peroxide solutions act as a contact killer. They must directly touch dust mites to destroy them. Hydrogen peroxide residues left on surfaces can continue killing dust mites for a period of time.
Advantages of hydrogen peroxide for dust mites
- Kills dust mites through direct contact
- Leaves no chemical residues behind
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly
- Odorless
- Colorless
- Relatively inexpensive
How to use hydrogen peroxide for dust mites
Here are some tips for using hydrogen peroxide to control dust mites:
Dilute to 3% solution
For household use, dilute hydrogen peroxide to 3% concentration. Higher concentrations can bleach or damage materials. Mix 1 cup of 3% drugstore hydrogen peroxide into 1 gallon of water.
Apply to surfaces
Use the diluted hydrogen peroxide solution in a spray bottle. Lightly mist upholstered furniture, carpet, drapes, bedding, and other infested areas. Avoid saturating surfaces – dampness allows more dust mite growth. Let surfaces air dry.
Soak washable items
Soak small washable items like bedding, stuffed animals, and pillows in diluted hydrogen peroxide solution for 10 minutes before washing. This boosts dust mite control.
Use often
Treat dust mite infested areas every 1-2 weeks to control growth. Hydrogen peroxide residues left behind continue working between applications.
Increase ventilation
Along with hydrogen peroxide, take steps to reduce humidity and dry out dust mite habitat. Open windows, run fans, dehumidify, and vacuum frequently.
Combine with other methods
Use hydrogen peroxide as part of an integrated pest management strategy. Combine with vacuuming, washing items in hot water, dust mite covers, controlling humidity, and other methods to get rid of dust mites.
Safety precautions
Take care when using hydrogen peroxide in the home:
- Dilute hydrogen peroxide to 3% solution for household use
- Spot test for colorfastness in a small inconspicuous area
- Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and mucous membranes
- Ensure proper ventilation while spraying
- Never mix hydrogen peroxide with bleach or vinegar
- Store hydrogen peroxide in a cool, dark place and avoid light exposure
Other methods to control dust mites
Hydrogen peroxide can be part of an integrated pest management plan for dust mites. Other ways to reduce dust mites include:
Wash bedding
Wash sheets, blankets, mattress covers, and pillowcases in hot water (at least 130°F) weekly to kill and remove dust mites. High heat drying for at least 20 minutes will also kill mites.
Vacuum often
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove dust and allergens. Vacuum carpets, furniture, drapes, and upholstered furniture at least once or twice a week.
Control humidity
Lower humidity below 50% to discourage dust mite growth. Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers. Increase ventilation and use exhaust fans.
Mattress and pillow covers
Encase mattresses and pillows in special allergen blocking covers. This creates a physical barrier preventing dust mite exposure as you sleep.
Remove clutter
Get rid of unnecessary items like knickknacks, books, and papers to reduce dust buildup. Clean surfaces frequently with a damp cloth.
Acaricides
Pesticides like tannic acid, benzyl benzoate, and silica gel kill dust mites. However, they must contact mites directly so effectiveness is limited.
Conclusion
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective dust mite killer. Diluted hydrogen peroxide solutions between 0.5% and 3% kill dust mites through contact. Lightly misting infested areas with hydrogen peroxide can reduce dust mite populations. For best results, use hydrogen peroxide regularly along with other integrated pest management practices. Controlling dust mites can help reduce allergy and asthma triggers caused by dust mite exposure.