Bed bugs and dust mites are two very different organisms that are both found in the home. A bed bug is a nocturnal parasitic bug and a dust mite is a microscopic spider. While they are both creepy and unwanted in the home, they are attracted to and thrive on different things. Read on to learn more about the dangers of having bed bugs and dust mites in your home and what you can do to prevent them.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are nocturnal parasitic bugs that feed off of warm-blooded animals. It’s a common misconception that you can’t see bed bugs with the human eye, but you can. An adult bed bug is a reddish brown color about the size of a tiny apple seed. Bed bugs can be found in tight crevices around your mattress and bedroom. Some areas to keep in mind are the box springs, mattresses, headboards, nightstands, dressers, baseboards, curtains, and even light switches.
Bed Beg Health Hazards
Luckily, bed bugs do not carry any type of diseases and there have been no serious health concerns associated with them. However, their bites do leave small itchy bites, which is an annoyance and well, it’s creepy.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are a microscopic eight-legged organism with a translucent body. They are not visible to the naked eye, which is why they go so unnoticed. Unlike bed bugs, dust mites do not bite. They feed off of dead skin cells that they find in our mattresses, couches, and pillows. Dust mites are most comfortable in a moist environment. Surprisingly, these are all moist areas due to the fact that they soak up our own moisture throughout the night.
Dust Mites Health Hazards
Although small, these little suckers can cause some serious damage to your health. They are a leading cause of allergic reactions including asthma, eczema, and rhinitis. If you are suffering from unusual coughing, sneezing, or one of the previously mentioned allergies, then you should check to see if your home has dust mites.
How Can I Tell If My Home Has Dust Mites?
How in the world can you tell if you have dust mites if they’re invisible to the human eye? It’s very simple, actually. The most effective and easiest way to investigate your home is to purchase a microscope. It doesn’t have to be expensive or extremely powerful. All you need is a microscope with at least 10x magnification. Next, you will need to collect a dust sample from the common lounging areas in your home that are warm and moist. If you ever feel a slight tickling sensation on your body, use a piece of tape to capture it. Now you just need to check if you see dust mites under the microscope and now that you know what they look like, this will be easy.
Preventatives
Now that we’ve made you feel that imaginary feeling that something is crawling on you, here are some ways you can prevent bed bugs and dust mites:
- Before you buy a used couch, pillows, or mattress, check it for signs of bed bugs.
- Use a protective cover on your couches, mattresses, box foundations and pillows.
- Vacuum your carpets, drapes, mattresses, and couches often.
- Keep your space organized, decluttered, and clean.
- Be vigilant to not take home bed bugs when you stay at a friend’s, family members, or hotel.
- Cover outlets.
Now that you’re more informed about the dangers of having bed bugs and dust mites, you can be proactive against them. If you’re on the market for a new quality and supportive mattress, take a look at our selection of mattresses or call 866-357-5337.
