I tried this method. Vacuuming [or carpet beating] afterwards helps to get rid of any remaining dust mites!

How to Kill #DustMites Naturally with Cold

By: Author Kimberly

Posted on Published: January 24, 2019 - Last updated: November 12, 2023

"If you’ve got allergies or asthma, you probably are wondering how to kill dust mites naturally. The tiny insects create #allergens that can cause health problems for kids and adults. Dust mites can be somewhat difficult to kill. The good news is, you can naturally kill dust mites with cold temperatures.

[...]

"Either find a covered spot, like a covered porch outside, or set up a drying rack outdoors when there is no precipitation in the air. For instance, you don’t want it to be snowing or foggy.

"Then, all you have to do is place fabric items outdoors in the freezing temperatures for a while.

- Place pillows on the drying rack or on chairs on your porch.
- Drape comforters on a drying rack or over the back of chairs.
- Gather up pet toys or kids toys in a breathable basket (like wicker or canvas, not hard plastic) and place them outdoors.

How long do you keep items outside in the cold temperature to kill dust mites?

"Opinions vary, but a minimum of 24 hours seems to be the rule of thumb, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you can only manage 8 hours or so, it’s better than doing nothing at all. Ideally, 48 hours would be the perfect time frame for killing dust mites.

"Keep in mind, the freezing temperatures need to be sustained for the entire time. It can’t be 32 degrees in the morning and then warm up to 45 degrees all day for this to work."

Learn more:
https://www.getgreenbewell.com/how-to-kill-dust-mites-naturally-with-cold/

#SolarPunkSunday #HomeHealth #Pillows #Comforters #Health #PlushToys

How to Use a #FabricSteamer [or #SteamIron] to Sanitize Fabric like Sheets, Pillows, and Blankets

Sanitizing linens without access to a #WashingMachine is easier than you might think.

by Ashley Abramson
March 23, 2020

"If you’re not able to access a washer and dryer and want to sanitize your sheets, pillow cases, or blankets—especially if someone sick is using them—all you need is some steam. (Assuming the fabric doesn’t have any major stains, since steaming can set-in the stain.)

"'If you’re taking care of someone who’s ill or you’re sick yourself, steam from a steamer or an iron is enough to sanitize sheets,' Richardson says. According to the #CDC, heat of 167 degrees or more is sufficient to kill respiratory #viruses like the #flu, and many steamers and irons can reach temperatures of 200 degrees or more. There’s one caveat: If you’re using an iron for sanitizing purposes, make sure to turn on the steam setting—it’s not just the high heat that’s killing the germs, but the actual steam penetrating the fabric. Steam also kills odor-causing bacteria and kills #DustMites.

"If you do have a fabric steamer, it’s likely a more effective method than ironing alone. Steamers are also more versatile; for example, you can use them to freshen up your mattress or sofa if you’re worried about germs hanging out in those soft surfaces. Plus, with a steamer, you won’t risk burning your linens."

Read more: https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-easiest-way-to-sanitize-your-bed-sheets-according-to-a-laundry-expert?utm_source=pocket-newtab-en-us

#Laundry #Degrowth #Clothes
#Clotheswashing #WaterIsLife