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Mites

Mites are small arachnids that cannot be seen with the naked eye and which live in almost all houses, stores and warehouse sites. They like to live in dust and have a short life span of approximately 120 days. Mites are a common cause of allergies.

Mite deallergenization measures for the home:

  • Ventilate the house well and keep it at a low temperature and dry. Mites reproduce best at temperatures over 24 degrees centigrade and a humidity level over 50%.
  • Use a dehumidifier to keep your house dry.
  • Avoid over filling rooms with furniture and objects.Some objects collect a lot of dust, such as soft toys, bookshelves, ornaments or collectible objects.
  • Substitute the stuffing of soft toys with washable stuffing and wash them frequently.
  • Remove carpets and rugs. Dust settles in rugs, if possible remove them.
  • Avoid the accumulation of dust on curtains, and on sofa, armchair and cushion upholstery.
  • Remove dust with damp cloths in daily cleaning.
  • Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter or wet vacuum cleaner at least once a week. The filter should be checked frequently.
  • Avoid animals with fur or feathers in the home.
  • Use washable plastic paint.
  • Limit the use of irritant substances (air-fresheners, insecticides, etc.). Humidifiers are not advised.
  • In the bedroom, change sheets, pyjamas, mattress covers and pillow cases frequently.
  • Use hypoallergenic mattresses, bed bases and pillows. These have special "non-allergenic" or synthetic covers that do not contain wool or feathers. Your doctor or nurse can advise you on where to buy these products.
  • Clothes should be kept in a well-closed wardrobe. Wool garments should be put into plastic bags before being put away in the wardrobe.
  • Wash sheets, blankets and pillowcases in water at 130ºF (55ºC) every week.

People who are allergic to storage mites should avoid exposure to:

  • Grain, flour and animal food stores.
  • Dried fruit, meat and dried fish stores, cheese and egg stores.