There are several ways to kill dust mites, including:

• Washing bedding in hot water: Wash all sheets, blankets, pillowcases, and bedcovers in hot water that is at least 130 F (54.4 C) to kill dust mites and remove allergens. If bedding cant be washed hot, put the items in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at a temperature above 130 F (54.4 C) to kill the mites. Then wash and dry the bedding to remove allergens.

• Using a dehumidifier or air conditioner: Dust mites need a water source, so keeping the relative humidity below 50% can help reduce their numbers. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to draw moisture out of the air.

• Steam cleaning: Steam cleaning can kill dust mites at 200 degrees, so try using a steam cleaner on your carpet and upholstered furniture once per season.

• Using allergen covers: Cover your pillows and mattress in an allergen cover. Wash all bedding and blankets at least weekly in hot water to kill the dust mites.

• Vacuuming and dusting: Vacuuming carpeting and upholstered furniture removes surface dust, but vacuuming isnt effective at removing most dust mites and dust mite allergens. Use a vacuum cleaner with a double-layered microfilter bag or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to help decrease house-dust emissions from the cleaner. Dusting with a damp cloth can also help remove dust mites.

• Using desiccants: Dust mites absorb moisture from the environment around them, so using desiccants can help kill them. Examples of desiccants include silica gel, activated alumina, and anhydrous calcium sulfate.

Its important to note that while these methods can significantly reduce the number of dust mites in your home, its impossible to completely eliminate them.