Do dust mites live in air ducts?

Dust Mites: Allergens in your Home

You may not be able to see them, but they’re there. Millions of them, in fact. They thrive in dusty conditions and are commonly found in beds, upholstered furniture, and carpets. They are dust mites, and for many people, they are a major source of allergies. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what dust mites are, where they live, and how to get rid of them. 

What are Dust Mites? 

Dust mites are tiny animals that feed on the dead skin cells that humans shed every day. They are too tiny to be seen with the naked eye, but they can induce severe allergic reactions in humans. Many individuals spend a significant amount of time and money cleaning their air ducts in an attempt to minimize the number of dust mites in their houses. Unfortunately, because dust mites do not reside in air ducts, this is typically a waste of time and money. 

Where Do Dust Mites Live? 

Dust mites may reside in air ducts but they are most commonly found in beds, upholstered furniture, and carpets. This is because these items provide an ideal environment for dust mites to live and reproduce. Dust mites thrive in warm and humid environments with plenty of food (dead skin cells). The average bed can contain as many as 1 million dust mites! 

How to Get Rid of Dust Mites 

While you can’t completely get rid of dust mites, there are things you can do to reduce their numbers. Here are some tips: 

– Vacuum regularly with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. This will help to remove both dust mites and their eggs from your carpets and upholstered furniture. 

– Wash bedding weekly in hot water (130 degrees Fahrenheit or higher). This will kill both dust mites and their eggs. 

– Keep humidity levels low in your home. Dust mites thrive in humid environments so it’s important to keep things as dry as possible. Use a dehumidifier if necessary. 

– Don’t forget about soft toys! plush toys should be washed frequently as well since they can harbor high concentrations of dust mites. Toy chests can also be a breeding ground for these allergens so it’s important to keep them clean as well. 

Cleaning your air ducts will assist to guarantee decent indoor air quality but it is unlikely to have a big influence on the dust mite population in your home. By following the tips above, you can minimize the number of allergens floating around your home and make it a more comfortable place for everyone involved!

Duct Cleaning Sudbury offers professional air duct and dryer vent cleaning services in the Greater Sudbury area. Call today for a no-obligation estimate at 705-996-4553