We spend a third of our lives in bed, so it's hardly surprising that a mattress ends up being a haven for millions of dust mites. These tiny lodgers feed on dead skin cells and thrive on warmth and moisture. Learning how to get rid of dust mites in your mattress matters if you wake up sneezing, itching or with irritated eyes. In this guide we explain how to do it simply, using things you already have at home and without harsh chemicals.
What dust mites are and why they end up in your mattress
Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that live in textiles such as mattresses, pillows and blankets. They don't bite and they don't transmit disease, but their droppings and remains are one of the main triggers of respiratory allergies at home. A mattress gives them exactly what they need: body heat, moisture from sweat and a constant food supply. So however clean the bedroom is, it's always worth giving the mattress a thorough going-over every so often.
Signs you have dust mites in your mattress
You won't see them with the naked eye, but your body usually gives you a warning. Look out for these signs, especially first thing in the morning:
- Sneezing and a blocked nose the moment you get up.
- Itchy eyes, nose or throat.
- Small bumps or red patches on skin that was in contact with the sheets.
- Coughing or wheezing in people with asthma.
If those symptoms ease when you spend the day away from home, there's a good chance the mattress is partly to blame.
How to get rid of dust mites with bicarbonate of soda
Bicarbonate of soda is the star remedy, and rightly so: it absorbs moisture and neutralises odours. The method couldn't be simpler. Sprinkle a generous layer over the whole surface of the mattress, add a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oil if you want an antibacterial boost, and leave it for at least two hours (four or five is better). Then vacuum it up thoroughly with the right attachment. The mattress will feel fresher and drier straight away.
How to get rid of dust mites naturally
Beyond bicarbonate of soda, there are several highly effective natural allies:
- Sunlight. Mites hate direct sun and dry air. If you can, put the mattress out in the sun for a few hours, or at least throw the windows wide open.
- Steam. A steam cleaner exceeds 100 degrees and kills mites and their eggs without any products at all.
- Cold. For pillows and smaller textiles, a few hours in the freezer works just as well.
Air the bedroom every morning and keep humidity below 50 % to make life difficult for them.
How often to clean your mattress and how to prevent mites
Prevention is your best weapon. These habits will keep dust mites at bay far longer:
- Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly at 60 degrees or above.
- Use a breathable anti-allergy mattress protector that seals the mattress off.
- Vacuum the mattress and turn it every two or three months.
- Let the bed air before you make it, rather than covering it up the second you get out.
A well-aired, dry, tidy bedroom is a dust mite's worst enemy. If you're after accessories for looking after your home, take a look at our selection of household products.
Common mistakes when cleaning a mattress
Even with the best intentions, a few common habits can undo all your work. The most frequent is soaking the mattress: the moisture trapped inside is exactly what mites and mould need to come back stronger. Always use very little water and make sure the surface is completely dry before you make the bed.
Another classic mistake is treating only the mattress and forgetting everything else. Pillows, the headboard, blankets and even the bedroom rug collect just as many mites as the bed itself, so wash or air them just as often. Bear in mind, too, that a mattress lasts about ten years: if yours is older than that, not even the best clean will get it completely mite-free.
Conclusion
Getting rid of dust mites in your mattress doesn't take expensive or complicated products: bicarbonate of soda, sunlight, steam and a good ventilation routine are enough to sleep in a far healthier environment. Set aside a little time for it each season and your sleep, and your airways, will thank you for it. At Velia Select we believe in a clean, welcoming home you actually want to rest in.