Bed mite allergy, often termed as allergic reactions to dust mites, arises from exposure to minute arthropods known as house dust mites. These minuscule creatures are commonly present in household dust, with a particular prevalence in areas frequently inhabited by humans, such as bedding, pillows, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. Dust mites primarily subsist on human skin flakes and thrive in warm and humid environments.

When individuals with dust mite allergies encounter dust mite allergens, which are proteins found in dust mite excrement and bodily remnants, their immune systems may overreact, leading to the manifestation of allergy-related symptoms. 

Read more to find out if you might be allergic and what to do about it.

The short answer is no, dust mites do not bite humans. Dust mites lack the anatomical features required for biting or piercing the skin. Although they can provoke allergic responses in certain individuals, these allergies do not result from bites. Rather, allergic reactions occur when people are exposed to the minute waste particles emitted by dust mites.

Read more about the common myth of dust mite bites.

Unlike humans, who consume water, dust mites lack an internal means of quenching their thirst. Instead, they rely on absorbing moisture from their environment, which means that dust mites thrive in humid conditions, like the subtropical climate of Australia.

Read our advice on how to reduce dust mites in your home if you live in Australia.