HOW TO GET RID OF DUST MITES IN THE BEDROOM (AND KEEP THEM AWAY NATURALLY)

Simple, Natural Ways to Create a Cleaner, Allergy-Friendly Home and to Get Rid of Dust Mites (Especially in the Bedroom)

If there’s one invisible house guest that makes my skin crawl more than my dog Stanley rolling in fox poo, it’s the dust mite. Tiny, sneeze inducing, bed loving bugs that love your home but make you not want to be there. Especially to get into bed knowing dust mites could be crawling around!

They thrive in warm, humid conditions and live off dead skin cells (I know… delightful).

But don’t panic - there’s no need to start fumigating your home or burning your bedding. With a few simple habits and the right tools, I am here to show you how to get rid of dust mites in your bedroom and keep them under control naturally.

I worked with a client recently who had dust mites in her bedrooms and didn't know some of these tricks to keep them at bay so I am writing this to help those that never learnt these simple habits to do.

And, as always, a quick note: some of the links below are affiliate links, which means if you click and buy I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps me keep creating free tips and content, so thank you!

1. Wash Bedding Weekly - and Turn Up the Heat (this may be controversial)

Let’s start with the obvious but most effective step. Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers at least once a week at 60°C if the fabric allows. It’s the only way to actually kill dust mites rather than just rinse them around for another ride in the spin cycle.

Yes I know many people say to wash at lower temperatures and I believe that is fine for clothes etc, but not bedding.

If you can’t wash at that temperature, add a laundry sanitiser or anti allergy laundry additive. And don’t forget your pillows and duvets - they need washing every couple of months too.

Top Tip: Hang them in a sunny spot to air after washing. UV light is a natural mite buster, and there’s nothing like crisp bedding that smells of fresh air.

2. Invest in Hypoallergenic Bedding Protectors

I always say - protect the things that protect you. A hypoallergenic mattress cover and pillow protectors create a physical barrier between you and those microscopic nasties. Look for covers that are dust mite proof, fully zippered, and washable. I wash mine every month.

It’s one of those small purchases that makes a massive difference - especially if you or someone in the house wakes up sneezing or congested.

3. Vacuum More Than Just the Floor

Dust mites love soft furnishings. Curtains, rugs, headboards, and upholstered furniture are like magnets to them. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and go over:

• Carpets and rugs

• Upholstered chairs or ottomans

• Bed bases and headboards

  
  

And if you really want to go next level, here is what I use monthly on my mattress and headboard when I wash my protector - handheld mattress vacuum.  It sounds extreme, but it’s oddly satisfying watching all that unseen fluff vanish and know the UV light is killing any nasties.

4. Lower Humidity Levels

Mites adore humidity. So if you’re drying clothes indoors or living in a well insulated modern home, you’re basically inviting them in.

A small dehumidifier in the bedroom keeps moisture levels below 50%, which dust mites can’t stand. Plus, it helps prevent mould and that “damp” smell that loves to appear in winter. I use mine in the bathroom when drying clothes over an airer as it speeds things up!

5. Clean Curtains and Soft Furnishings Regularly

Curtains and cushions trap dust faster than you can say “spring clean”. Wash or dry clean curtains every few months, and stick cushion covers in the wash when you change the bedding.

If you’ve got blinds instead, give them a weekly wipe with a microfibre duster. It’s one of those quick wins that makes the whole room feel cleaner.

7. Declutter and Dust Smarter

Dust mites need places to hide. The fewer surfaces, trinkets, and piles, the fewer hiding spots. Decluttering also makes cleaning quicker and more effective - win-win.

When dusting, use a slightly damp microfibre cloth so you’re picking dust up rather than just redistributing it. Start high (tops of wardrobes and shelves) and work your way down.

And yes, this is where your Seasonal Reset Workbook comes in handy. A quick weekly reset keeps on top of clutter and creates a calmer, cleaner home - with fewer mites tagging along.

8. Freeze or Sun-Dry Soft Toys and Cushions

If you’ve got children or grandkids with favourite teddies, here’s a trick: pop them in a plastic bag and freeze overnight. It kills mites without washing. Then air them outside in the sun for a refresh. (This is also great if you have moths by the way!)

9. Keep Air Circulating

Even in winter, open the windows for ten minutes a day. Good airflow reduces humidity and gives mites less chance to multiply. It’s free, simple, and your bedroom will smell fresher for it.

It may cause marital issues (hope my husband doesn't see this!) but you are correct to keep windows open even if it makes the room colder for a bit.

10. Stay Consistent

Dust mites come back if you slack off, so aim to build these habits into your weekly routine. Once you’ve got your systems set up - regular washing, mattress protector on, dehumidifier humming quietly - it becomes second nature.

So... to keep dust mites at bay:

• Wash bedding weekly at 60°C

• Use anti-allergy covers

• Vacuum regularly (including soft furnishings)

• Reduce humidity

• Declutter and dust often

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Little changes really do make a big difference to the quality of your sleep and your sinuses.

Thanks for reading, I'm Jo, a Professional Organiser for 20 years and your new partner in creating an organised home. 

Based in Petersfield, Hampshire but covering Surrey, West Sussex and London (upon individual request basis).

I help busy professionals, families and home movers, organise and declutter their homes, paperwork and photographs.

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