How to: minimize dust mites in your home

No one likes to think about microscopic organisms sharing the space they call home, but the factor of the matter is that there are many things taking up residence in your home that you may not be able to see with the naked eye. Dust mites are one of them.

Largely harmless, unless you suffer from allergies, dust mites feed on the breakdown of fibers in pillows, drapes, clothes, linens and other furnishings. Dust is an inevitable part of living, therefore dust mites are certain to come with the territory. While you cannot completely rid your home of dust mites, you can certainly take some steps to reduce their numbers.

• Bedroom: Bedrooms should not be located in humid areas, such as the basement. Mount beds on bed frames. Put allergen-impermeable encasings on pillows, mattresses and box springs. Use pillows, blankets, quilts and bedspreads made of synthetics; avoid down-filled comforters and pillows altogether. Wash bedding at least once a week.

• Floors: Avoid carpeting and thick rugs. If you do have carpets, select area rugs or thin carpets. Vacuum often or buy a machine that reduces dust emissions. Bare surfaces, such as hardwood, linoleum, vinyl, or tile are easy to clean and help prevent dust buildup.

• Furniture: Replace fabric-upholstered furniture, such as sofas ad chairs with leather upholstery or other furniture made of plastic, wood or metal, which won't trap allergens.

• Cleaning: Vacuum bedrooms and mattresses at least once a week, and clean furniture with a dry one. Take down curtains and wash them once a month.

• Air: Use air cleaners to keep pure air circulating, and cover vents with filters to ensure clean air enters the home. Keep the relative humidity in your home low (below 50 percent), because dust mites can't survive in such conditions. Clean and maintain heating and air units at least once a year.

• Around the house: Reduce clutter, books and stuffed animals to prevent the proliferation of dust.