Mites are tiny bugs that often go unnoticed. However, they can be allergenic and cause hay fever. Mites can cause a variety of health problems, some of them serious. In this article, we will discuss how you can protect your child from mite allergies.

What are mites?

Mites are tiny, microscopic bugs that belong to the arachnid family. Mites are often found in dust and warm, humid environments. They are not harmful on their own, but mites can cause an allergic reaction if they are inhaled.

Many people have a sensitivity to mites, and allergies can happen at any age. Mite allergies can cause a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

How to prevent mites

Preventing mites from taking up residence in your home can be done in several ways.

Vacuum regularly

Vacuuming regularly is important. It’s also best to use a vacuum that has a HEPA filter, as it will trap a majority of the dust and mites.

You can also vacuum upholstered furniture, curtains, and carpets to get rid of the dust mites and their allergens.

Wash bedding weekly

Mites love to nest in warm bedding and sheets. Therefore, it is essential to wash bedding once a week in hot water since hot water will kill mites and their offspring. Drying them in a hot dryer will also kill off any remaining dust mites.

Reduce humidity levels

Mites love humidity. Use an air conditioner to regulate humidity levels or a dehumidifier to decrease humidity in a humid area.

An air conditioner alone can improve indoor air quality, which can also help reduce your child’s allergies and asthma symptoms. It’s important to maintain the humidity level between 35-50%.

Use hypoallergenic products

Use hypoallergenic bedding, pillows, and mattress covers. It is best to avoid synthetic materials and choose natural fibers like cotton, wool, or silk. Dust mites do not like to live in these materials.

Synthetic art fibers should be avoided as they attract dust mites.

Keep stuffed toys off of the bed

Stuffed animals can be a breeding place for dust mites. Keep stuffed toys off the bed, and wash them regularly. It is best to place them in a sealed plastic bag for a couple of days to kill the mites and then wash them with hot water.

Tips for Mite Free Travels

Travel can also expose your child to new environments. Here are some tips to prevent allergies during travel:.

Choose lodgings that control allergens

Before booking a hotel, check the hotel’s allergen control measures. Some hotels provide hypoallergenic bedding and air filters that can help filter out dust and mites.

It is always best to inform the hotel beforehand about allergies to allow them to prepare the room accordingly.

Avoid areas known for mites

Certain areas are more prone to mites than others. For instance, beaches and forests are known to have high mite levels. If possible, try to avoid these areas. Opt for indoor activities, especially during peak mite season.

Use hypoallergenic products

Your child’s hotel room heating, cooling, humidification, and ventilation systems may be dormant, but allergens can accumulate in them over time, causing irritants to whiff out whenever they’re turned back on.

To battle this, consider bringing your child’s trusted hypoallergenic bedding, including pillow covers, mattress encasings, and air purifiers, whenever traveling.

Conclusion

Mites allergies can make life difficult for your child. Allergies from mites can cause your child to suffer from hay fever and asthma, but with proper prevention measures, you can keep your child safe.

Besides, if your child has an allergy, it is best to speak to your pediatrician, who may recommend additional medication or allergy tests to determine if there are other allergens involved. Creating and maintaining a living environment that is free of dust mites will go a long way in taking care of your child’s health.