What you should know about house dust mites:
House dust mites are natural inhabitants of our surrounding environment. The presence of house dust mites does not indicate a lack of cleanliness. House dust mites do not pose a problem for most people, but they certainly do for people who are allergic to them. House dust mites avoid contact with humans and do not transfer any diseases. They are not visible to the naked eye.
They live in house dust and feed on its various particles, especially on the flakes from human or animal skin contained in the dust. The average human loses up to 1.5 grams of skin particles per day. This amount is sufficient for the nourishment of house dust mites and even tides them over during periods in which the rooms are not entered. In addition, they also consume material of other origin, such as pieces of fiber, feathers, etc.
The development and propagation of house dust mites is dependent upon the relative humidity and temperature. They thrive at temperatures between 200 and 300 C (680 and 840 F) and a relative humidity of 65-80%. This moderate, moist climate is prevalent in many parts of the United State from May to October. This is also the period in which house dust mites mature and breed. Relative humidity over 90% and below 33% is harmful to them. For this reason, house dust mites are rarely found in high mountain areas (that is, higher than 3,600 feet above sea level) because the relative humidity is too low.
Temperature differences within one room or between various rooms create additional moisture. This sometimes keeps rooms damp for long periods of time, which in turn lets the house dust mites survive and even breed.
Relative humidity is more important than temperature for house dust mites living, growing and propagating conditions.
House dust mites are often found in mattresses, upholstery, rugs, carpets, quilts, pillows, and almost all textile items (including children’s textile toys). Sleeping areas of house pets are also favorite spots.