Autumn is the cosiest time of year, when we spend more time snuggled under blankets on colder evenings, but it is also when dust mites can become a bigger problem in our beds. Dust mites are tiny microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin, fluff, and small dust particles that can build up on bedding that is not washed regularly.

They are harmless, but nobody wants tiny pests crawling around in their bed, especially as their faeces and body fragments can trigger itchy skin, which can disturb your sleep. Late September is often when dust mites are more likely to come into bedrooms, as most people are starting to think about turning their heating on, and they thrive in a warm environment. The thought of dealing with dust mites can make anyone’s skin crawl, but according to experts at Home of Wool, there is a really easy way to keep away as you just need to open your bedroom window.

The expert said: “In order for you to reduce the impact dust mites have on your health, you’d better work on getting both temperature and humidity levels down.

“Your home ventilation matters. Let some fresh air in, open the windows while taking a bath, and while you cook so that the humidity level doesn’t go up. Use a dehumidifier if living in a humid area.”

How to keep dust mites off your bedsheets

Dust mites need a hot yet damp environment to survive, and in autumn, our homes tend to become more humid as we start to open our windows less.

This can cause moisture to build up in the air just from daily tasks like cooking or showering, releasing steam, but we also start to dry laundry indoors at this time of year, which will release a lot of water into the air.

It can really help to just open your bedroom window once a day, as it will help all the moist indoor air escape and lower the humidity, which is the best way to stop dust mites from producing.

All you need to do is open a window or switch on a dehumidifier for at least 10 minutes to keep your bedroom air dry and it will help keep your bed pest-free throughout the colder seasons.

How else can you prevent dust mites?

Airing out a bedroom is the easiest way to prevent dust mites, but it is also important to wash bedding at least once a week during autumn to keep these creepy crawlies away.

Make sure to put bedding on a warm wash at least 60 °C and tumble-dry it if you can, as dust mites will die quickly at high temperatures.

It is also suggested to add some eucalyptus oil to bedding before washing it, for its mite-killing properties, but be careful when using essential oils around pets, as some can be harmful to cats and dogs.

Dust mites are an invisible pest most people do not notice, but taking the time to do a few simple tasks in autumn will ensure your bed stays as comfy as possible during autumn.