What is biting me? Can dust mites bite?

What is biting me? It’s a question I’ve been asked a lot over the past couple of years so I thought I’d blog a little about it. When my clients ask me this question they often follow up their question by showing me a pimply rash that looks very much like bites. The truth of the matter is that the rash they have is a reaction to something they have ingested or inhaled, it’s not a bite, so what is biting me? Dust mites are arachnids and do cause havoc to those who have dust mite allergies but it is not actually the dust mite itself that causes the allergic reaction. It is actually the protein in their droppings that can cause irritation and allergic reaction. Dead skin flakes are the dust mites food of choice and they have an endless supply of food available to them within your mattress. they are far too small to break human skin, so… what is biting me? Dust mites are far too small to be the culprit for any biting but their excrement is the real reason for an allergic reaction. If you are being bitten in bed there is a good chance that you might actually have bed bugs which are quite a bit bigger than dust mites. Bed bugs are quite visible and leave tell-tale blood trails behind on your body and your mattress. So, what is biting me? If it’s not a rash then it just might be a bed bug.

Dust mites are microscopic pests that can wreak havoc on your health if unchecked. These tiny arachnids thrive in warm, dark and humid environments, making your bedding, furniture, and carpets prime breeding grounds. Dust mites feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and animals, their excrement is a common allergen for many people.

If you suspect that you have a dust mite problem in your home, it’s important to take action to remove these unwelcome guests. Here are some effective strategies to get rid of dust mites and create a healthier environment for you and your family:

1. Wash Your Bedding Regularly:

Dust mites love to hang out in your bedding, so it’s essential to wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets regularly in hot water. This will kill off any dust mites that may be residing in your bedding and help reduce allergens in your bedroom.

2. Use Dust Mite Proof Covers:

Investing in dust mite-proof mattress and pillow covers can help create a barrier between you and these mites. These covers are made of tightly woven fabric that prevents dust mites from penetrating and can provide relief for those with allergies.

3. Vacuum Frequently:

Dust mites can also accumulate in your carpets, rugs, and upholstery, so it’s important to vacuum these surfaces frequently to remove dust mite allergens. Make sure to use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap small particles and prevent them from being released back into the air.

4. Reduce Humidity:

Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so it’s crucial to keep the humidity levels in your home below 50%. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air and prevent dust mites from multiplying.

5. Dust Regularly:

Dusting your home frequently with a damp cloth can help reduce dust mite allergens and keep them at bay. Pay special attention to areas where dust tends to accumulate, such as bookshelves, picture frames, and ceiling fans.

6. Wash Stuffed Animals:

If you have children who play with stuffed animals, make sure to wash these toys regularly in hot water to eliminate dust mites. You can also place them in the freezer for a few hours to kill off any remaining dust mites.

7. Consider Allergy-Friendly Flooring:

If you have carpeting in your home, consider replacing it with hardwood floors or tile, which are less likely to harbor dust mites. If you prefer carpet, opt for low-pile carpets and vacuum them regularly to reduce allergens.

8. Dust mites cannot survive in constant UV light:

Open your drapes and strip your mattress regularly. Any prolonged period of UV light hitting your mattress and other soft furnishings will have these dust mites running for cover.

By following these strategies, you can effectively get rid of dust mites in your home and create a healthier living environment for you and your family. Remember that consistency is key when it comes to dust mite control, so it’s important to implement these practices regularly to keep dust mites at bay. If you have severe allergies or asthma, consult with a healthcare professional for additional guidance on managing dust mite allergens in your home.

However, in Melbourne most cases of bed bug infestations are due to the bugs hitchhiking on the luggage of overseas travellers. So while some hotels in Melbourne need the services of an exterminator from time to time, most cases of itching thought to be caused by biting are actually a reaction caused by coming into contact with contaminants that you may encounter in your outside environment.

A trip to your general practitioner for a scratch test (skin allergy test) will rule out most allergens leaving you with the true culprit.

What is biting me?

by Steve Stoward