They’re microscopic, they multiply fast, and they love your bedding — but don’t worry, we’re here to help you fight them. Dust mites are one of the most common indoor allergens, and they thrive in warm, humid environments. If you've been waking up with watery eyes, sneezing fits, or congestion, it might be time to rethink your cleaning habits.
Below, we’ll share everything you need to know about how to get rid of dust mites and make your home a healthier place to breathe.
What Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are tiny bugs — too small to see — that feed on dead skin cells and live in soft surfaces such as mattresses, pillows, carpets, and upholstery. They don’t bite, but they do produce waste and shed skin, both of which can trigger allergies and asthma.
While you can’t eliminate them entirely, regular, strategic cleaning can reduce their numbers dramatically.
Bedrooms: Dust Mite Headquarters
If you're focused on cleaning for dust mites, the bedroom is the best place to start. It’s where dust mites thrive most. Try to do the tips below at least every other week, though weekly is ideal.
- Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets weekly in hot water (130°F or higher).
- Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers.
- Avoid heavy comforters and decorative pillows that can’t be washed frequently.
- Vacuum the mattress with a dust mite vacuum cleaner that includes a HEPA filter.
Want help keeping up with routine bedroom cleaning? Our residential cleaning services can be customized to your needs and schedule.
Living Room: Don't Forget the Furniture
Couches, rugs, and curtains are also hotspots for dust mites. Here’s how to minimize them:
- Vacuum upholstered furniture weekly using a dust mite vacuum cleaner or upholstery attachment.
- Wash or steam-clean curtains every other week.
- Choose blinds or shades instead of fabric window treatments where possible.
- Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpet with hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring, which is easier to clean.
Floors and Rugs: A Hidden Haven
Carpet traps dust, allergens, and mites — even with regular vacuuming. If removing carpeting isn’t an option, try this:
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter 2–3 times per week.
- Deep-clean carpets quarterly with steam or professional carpet cleaners.
- Shake out area rugs outdoors weekly and wash if possible (at least once a month).
Even if you have hard flooring, sweeping isn't enough. Dry dust can just float back into the air. Mopping with damp microfiber cloths can help trap dust instead of spreading it.
Air Quality Matters Too
Cleaning for dust mites isn't just about surfaces — it's also about air quality. Here’s what helps:
- Run a dehumidifier to keep humidity under 50%.
- Use HEPA-certified air purifiers in bedrooms and main living areas.
- Change HVAC filters according to manufacturer's instructions and schedule annual duct cleanings.
These actions limit the humidity and airflow that dust mites love, keeping their population under control.
Why DIY Isn't Always Enough
You can do everything right — but still miss critical areas. Professional cleaners are trained to get into the corners, crevices, and fabric layers that often go untouched. And let’s face it, sometimes you just don’t have time to vacuum every cushion and deep clean every room. Hiring a cleaning professional from your local Molly Maid ensures a customized, thorough approach — backed by our Neighborly Done Right Promise®: If it’s not done right, we promise to make it right.
Pet Owners, Take Extra Precaution
If you have furry family members, you’ll need to be extra vigilant. Dust mites love the dander and shed skin pets leave behind — and their bedding can be just as allergen-prone as yours. Wash pet beds and blankets in hot water weekly and vacuum the areas where your pets spend the most time. Don’t forget to regularly clean or replace air filters if you share your home with animals.
Set a Routine for Long-Term Relief
Controlling dust mites isn’t a one-and-done job — it requires ongoing effort. The best strategy is to build a consistent cleaning schedule that targets high-risk areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and HVAC systems. By combining routine deep cleans with smart product choices (such as using a dust mite vacuum cleaner and air purifiers), you’ll maintain a healthier space all year long.
Ditch the Dust and Breathe Better
If you’re waking up with itchy eyes, sneezing more than usual, or just tired of fighting the never-ending layer of dust, it might be time to start cleaning for dust mites the right way.
From understanding how to get rid of dust mites to choosing the right dust mite vacuum cleaner, a smarter cleaning routine can make a huge difference. And when you need a break (or just want a more thorough approach), your local Molly Maid® team is here to help.
Don’t let dust mites take over your home. Trust Molly Maid® to deliver the top-to-bottom clean your family deserves — and the peace of mind that comes with it. Schedule your local Molly Maid professional today and start breathing easier tomorrow.
This article is intended for general guidance only and is not applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and situation. Molly Maid® is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of advice and/or guidance derived from its blog content. Molly Maid services may vary by location. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Molly Maid nearest you for more information and a professional on-site assessment.
FAQs About Getting Rid of Dust Mites
Since 1984, Molly Maid has proudly provided a reliable, professional, and affordable solution to a messy, dirty home. Each year, the 450 individually owned and operated Molly Maid franchises performed over 1 million cleaning services, 90 percent of which are repeat customers. Provide the house cleaning services that busy homeowners need also includes using our years of experience and knowledge to answer your cleaning questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how to get rid of dust mites.
What is the fastest way to get rid of dust mites in your house?
The fastest way to reduce dust mites is to wash all bedding in hot water, vacuum with a HEPA-filtered dust mite vacuum cleaner, and lower your home’s humidity. For a deeper, more efficient clean, hiring professional cleaners can help eliminate mites from hard-to-reach places.
How do I know if I have dust mites in my home?
You may not see dust mites, but common signs include frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and worsening allergy symptoms—especially in the morning. A professional cleaning can help reduce allergens and improve indoor air quality.
Does professional cleaning remove dust mites?
Yes! Professional cleaners use advanced tools and methods to target dust mite hotspots. Routine service helps maintain low allergen levels in your home.
Can vacuuming alone get rid of dust mites?
Vacuuming helps, but not all vacuums are effective. A HEPA-equipped dust mite vacuum cleaner is essential for capturing microscopic allergens. Still, a full-home cleaning approach is best for long-term relief.
What areas of the home should I clean most for dust mites?
Focus on bedrooms, living room furniture, carpets, and pet areas. Washing fabrics and vacuuming weekly are crucial but so is managing air quality. A regular cleaning routine — supported by professional help — is the most effective solution.
