Are you allergic to tiny creatures in your bed? Let's talk about these dust mites!

Did you know that we shed small pieces of dead skin every day? It's a very normal thing. But what would you think if we told you that there are tiny creatures that feed on this dead skin and live in your bed, pillows, and carpets? It sounds a little creepy, doesn't it? We call these creatures dust mites . In fact, the first and most important step we can take to avoid dust allergies is to protect our mattresses and pillows from these creatures.

The truth about dust mites

Simply put, these creatures called dust mites are everywhere. They can live anywhere, whether people or animals, where there is heat and humidity. This means that these creatures are very easy to live in with the climate of our country. They prefer to stay indoors the most. Because then they can find plenty of things to eat, such as dead skin that falls off people and pets.

If you are also sensitive to these dust mites, that is, allergic, you may also experience symptoms like these.

These dust mites are most commonly found in our homes, such as carpets, window treatments, stuffed animals, and sofas. Among them, mattresses, pillows, and bedding are their favorite places to live.

Are mattress covers really effective in keeping dust mites away?

Yes, absolutely. Using specially designed mattress and pillow covers can make a big difference. One study found that some children with asthma were able to reduce the amount of medication they needed for their asthma after using these types of mattress and pillow covers. When their mattresses were examined, the dust mite population was significantly reduced.

You can find these dust mite-proof covers at mattress and allergy stores. They are made from a variety of fabrics.

What kind of cover should you choose?

• Using plastic or vinyl covers with a zipper seals the allergens inside, preventing you from breathing them in while you sleep.
• Plastic or vinyl covers are also easier to keep clean than covers made of regular fabric.
• Many plastic covers have a layer of nylon-like fabric on the outside, which reduces discomfort while sleeping.
• If possible, put these covers on your mattresses and pillows as soon as you get them new. This will help prevent dust mites from accumulating in the first place.
• Another good tip is to put something like duct tape over the zipper of the bag. This will completely block any small gaps that these creatures have to move around.

Other ways to reduce dust mites

In addition to using mattress covers, you can also get great relief by doing these things:

• Use a bed with a wooden or metal frame. Beds with cushions and fabric covers are more likely to harbor dust mites .
• When washing bedding, pillowcases, and bed sheets, be sure to use hot water. Cold water will not kill these dust mites.
• Wash bed sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. Wash comforters and bedspreads once a month or every two months.
• If possible, use an electric blanket. This can reduce the moisture on the surface of the bed and eliminate the environment for dust mites to live.
• Wash and dry stuffed animals regularly at home. Keep them out of the bed as much as possible.
• Give your mattress a good vacuuming at least two or three times a year. It's best to use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner. This will help remove dust mites from inside the mattress.

Dust Mites, Allergy, Asthma, Mattress Covers, Respiratory Diseases, Sri Lanka