If you struggle with allergies or asthma, you're probably aware of how crucial it is to maintain a clean and allergen-free living environment.
Did you know that one of the most common allergens found in homes are dust mites, which can be lurking in your bedding, carpets, and upholstery?
Although it's challenging to get rid of dust mites entirely, there are various ways you can minimize their presence and keep them in check.
Today, I'd like to share my homemade mattress spray that repels dust mites. Let's get started!
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What are dust mites?
Dust mites are tiny creatures found in almost every home. They feed on the dead skin cells that we shed. While they may be invisible to the naked eye, their effects can be felt by those with allergies or asthma.
Dust mites are not harmful to humans, but their faeces and body parts can trigger allergic reactions. These reactions can range from mild to severe and include symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing.
Dust mites are not just found in mattresses. They can be found in carpets, curtains, and other soft furnishings.
However, mattresses are a common breeding ground for dust mites due to the warm and humid environment they provide.
So, what can you do to reduce the number of dust mites in your home?
I have lots of tips in this post on how to get rid of dust mites on your mattress.
One solution I talk about in the post above is to use a homemade mattress spray. These sprays can help to repel dust mites and keep your mattress smelling fresh too.
Why use a homemade mattress spray?
Of course, you can buy preparatory mattress sprays. But here on SparklingPenny we prefer homemade solutions!
Here are some reasons why you should consider using a homemade mattress spray:
- It's natural: Commercial cleaning products can contain harsh chemicals that may irritate your skin and respiratory system. By making your own mattress spray, you can control the ingredients and ensure that they are safe and natural.
- It's cost-effective: Homemade mattress sprays are much cheaper than store-bought alternatives. You can make them with ingredients that you already have at home, such as vinegar, essential oils, and water.
- It's easy to make: You don't need any special skills or equipment to make a homemade mattress spray. All you need is a spray bottle and a few simple ingredients.
Using a homemade mattress spray is a great way to improve your sleep quality and promote a healthy sleeping environment.
The best ingredients for homemade mattress spray
If you're looking for an effective way to get rid of dust mites in your mattress, then a homemade mattress spray is the way to go.
Here are the ingredients you'll need to make your own:
- Vinegar
- Water
- Peppermint essential oil
- Tea tree essential oil
The vinegar helps to disinfect and deodorize your mattress, while the peppermint essential oil acts as a natural bug repellent. Tea tree essential oil is also known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent addition to the spray.
You can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store or online. When purchasing essential oils, make sure to choose high-quality oils that are 100% pure and organic. This will ensure that you're getting the most potent and effective oils for your spray.
It's important to note that while this homemade mattress spray is effective, it's not a miracle cure for dust mites.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your mattress are still necessary to keep dust mites at bay.
However, using this spray as a part of your cleaning routine can help to reduce the number of dust mites in your mattress and keep it fresh and clean.
How to make homemade mattress spray for dust mites
Here's what you'll need to make your own DIY mattress spray:
- 1 cup of distilled water
- 1 cup of distilled white vinegar
- 8 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 8 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 8 drops of lavender essential oil
- Spray bottle
I've added lavender oil into the mix because it's a good one for aiding better sleep.
To make the spray, simply combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well to mix. Then, spray the solution lightly over your mattress, paying extra attention to the seams and edges where dust mites tend to accumulate. Allow the spray to dry completely before putting your bedding back on the bed.
How to use homemade mattress spray
Using homemade mattress spray is a simple and effective way to keep your bed free from dust mites and other allergens.
Here's how to use it:
- I recommend you vacuum your mattress first. Use a good vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, so the dust (along with dust mites) doesn't get sent back into the air as you clean.
- Shake the spray bottle well to ensure the ingredients are mixed.
- Spray a light mist over the entire surface of your mattress. Be sure to cover all areas, including the sides and corners.
- Allow the spray to dry completely before making your bed. This should only take a few minutes.
- For best results, repeat every two weeks or as needed to keep your mattress fresh and clean.
It's important to note that while homemade mattress spray can help repel dust mites, it's not a substitute for regular cleaning and maintenance.
Be sure to vacuum your mattress regularly and wash your bedding in hot water to keep allergens at bay.
I have lots more tips here for getting rid of dust mites in your mattress in this post.
If you have a severe dust mite allergy, it's always a good idea to consult your doctor or allergist for additional advice and treatment options.
In addition to keeping your bed clean and fresh, homemade mattress spray can also be used on other surfaces around your home, such as carpets, upholstery, and curtains. Just be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the spray won't cause any damage or discoloration.
How to prevent dust mites from thriving in your home
Dust mites are a common problem in many households. They thrive in warm, humid environments and feed on dead skin cells.
If you want to prevent dust mites from taking up residence in your home, there are several things you can do.
- First, make sure to wash your bedding and linens regularly. This includes your sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and comforters. Use hot water and a high heat setting in the dryer to kill any dust mites that may be present.
- Another way to prevent dust mites is to vacuum your home frequently. This will help to remove any dust, dirt, and debris that may be present. Make sure to vacuum your carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Make sure your vacuum cleaner has a HEPA filter, so you don't send dust back out into the air as you use it.
- Keep hard surfaces dust-free with my homemade dusting spray and a microfiber cloth.
- You can also use dust mite covers on your pillows, mattresses, and box springs. These covers are designed to prevent dust mites from entering your bedding and can be easily washed and reused.
- In addition to these steps, it's important to keep your home's humidity levels under control. Dust mites thrive in humid environments, so using a dehumidifier can help to reduce their numbers. Aim for a humidity level of around 50% or lower.
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