Dust Mites in Bed: How to Get Rid of Them
Dust mites are among the most common allergy triggers in Germany. These tiny arachnids live in mattresses, pillows, sofas and carpets — anywhere that's warm and moist. Here's what you can do about them.
What Are Dust Mites?
Dust mites (Dermatophagoides) are 0.1 to 0.5 mm arachnids that are invisible to the naked eye. They feed mainly on human skin flakes and thrive at temperatures of 20–25°C and humidity of 65–80%.
An average mattress can harbour up to 2 million mites. Each mite produces around 20 droppings per day — and those are the real problem.
Health Effects
It's not the mites themselves but their droppings that trigger allergic reactions. Typical symptoms of a dust mite allergy include:
- Blocked or runny nose in the morning
- Sneezing fits after waking up
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Coughing and breathing difficulties
- Skin rashes or eczema
- Disrupted sleep
In Germany, around 10–15% of the population suffers from a dust mite allergy. Among children, the figure is even higher.
7 Tips Against Dust Mites
1. Ventilate Regularly
Air your bedroom for 10–15 minutes every morning. Pull back the duvet so the mattress can breathe. Mites love moisture — dry air is your ally.
2. Wash Bedding on a Hot Cycle
Wash your bedding at least every two weeks at 60°C. Mites die at temperatures above 60°C.
3. Use Mite-Proof Covers
Encasing covers for mattresses and pillows create a barrier between you and the mites. Look for certified quality products.
4. Reduce Dust Collectors
Minimise dust traps in the bedroom such as open shelves, heavy curtains or stuffed toys on the bed.
5. Maintain the Right Humidity
Keep humidity below 50%. A hygrometer helps you monitor this. Avoid drying laundry in the bedroom.
6. Vacuum Regularly
Vacuum your mattress and upholstered furniture regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner.
7. Professional Deep Cleaning
The most effective way to remove mites and their droppings is professional deep cleaning. Our extraction equipment reaches layers that a normal vacuum cleaner cannot.
Professional Mite Treatment in Munich
At Octoputz, we offer professional mattress cleaning and sofa cleaning in Munich. Our hypoallergenic cleaning agents and professional extraction equipment thoroughly remove mites, allergens and bacteria from deep within the fibres.
We especially recommend cleaning every 3–4 months for allergy sufferers.
Book your appointment: 0176 651 58 719 or via WhatsApp.