The average household mattress hosts anywhere from 100,000 to 10 million dust mites*. And since roughly 20 million Americans are allergic to dust mites**, it’s no wonder we start the day with headaches, itchy eyes and stuffy noses.
What’s a sensitive-sinused sleepyhead to do? The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology shows mites thrive in warm, moist environments***. So increasing ventilation and air filtration while decreasing humidity is one important step. Vapor steam cleaning (for throw pillows, upholstery and other items you can’t launder) can also go a long way in stopping stubborn pests in their tiny tracks.
Finally, get serious about your laundry game. Even if you already use allergy relief bedding or plastic mattress covers, this mite-crushing routine will help you reclaim your bedchamber in no time.