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What Kills Dust Mites Instantly?
The chances are that you’ve tried a few things that didn’t work and are getting desperate to get rid of them. If you can see them, they’re probably not dust mites. Dust mites are invisible to the naked eye—but they can wreak havoc on allergy sufferers.
According to studies, here are the ways to kill dust mites instantly. Just don’t forget to remove their waste and body parts afterward by washing or vacuuming.
High-Temperature Washing (60°C or above)
Washing your sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors in water that’s at least 60°C is one of the most effective ways to kill dust mites instantly.
- Wash bedding weekly on a hot cycle
- Follow with a hot tumble dry (15–20 minutes minimum)
- Use laundry additives like eucalyptus oil or tea tree oil for added effect
This study found 60°C washing killed 100% of mites, while 40°C failed.
Steam Cleaning
This study found that steam over 100°C is hot enough to kill dust mites on contact.
- Use a handheld steam cleaner on mattresses, carpets, sofas, and curtains
- Slowly pass over each area for 5–10 seconds
- Avoid overwetting—dry steam is best
Tip: Use weekly in bedrooms and high-traffic areas.
Freezing Small Items
Yes, freezing kills dust mites instantly too! There are studies to prove it.
- Place toys, cushions, or small blankets in a sealed bag
- Freeze at -15°C for at least 24 hours
- Wash after thawing to remove allergens
How Do I Get Rid of Dust Mites ASAP?
If you need fast relief, use a combination approach in this order:
- Strip and wash all bedding at 60°C
- Steam clean your mattress and upholstered surfaces
- Spray a natural or commercial dust mite spray on carpets and curtains
- Run a dehumidifier to bring humidity below 50%
- Cover pillows, mattress, and quilt with dust mite-proof covers
Dust mite-proof covers trap mites inside and starve them over time. They’re an essential long-term solution.
What Do Dust Mites Hate in the House?
Dust mites hate:
- Heat: anything above 60°C
- Dry air: they thrive in humidity over 50%
- Strong essential oils: like clove, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil
- Sunlight: direct sun can kill them and dry out their habitat
Does Vinegar Get Rid of Dust Mites?
Yes—but with limitations. Vinegar can help disrupt dust mite allergens and clean surfaces effectively, but it’s not guaranteed to kill mites instantly.
- Mix 1:1 vinegar and water in a spray bottle
- Spray on hard surfaces, carpets, or mattresses (do a patch test)
- Let dry completely
- Vinegar may not kill all mites but helps reduce allergens and is safe for regular use
What Chemicals Kill Dust Mites
Certain acaricides (mite-killing chemicals) have been shown to kill dust mites instantly. These include:
- Benzyl benzoate: Found in commercial mite sprays and powders. Kills on contact and used in residential/hospital settings.
- Permethrin: A synthetic chemical used in pest control. Disrupts the nervous system of mites.
- Phenyl salicylate: Known for effectiveness in killing mites on contact.
Always check the product label to ensure it targets house dust mites. Consult your doctor before using chemical treatments, especially if you have asthma, eczema, or sensitivities.
Study reference: Acaricides with benzyl benzoate were shown to reduce mites significantly (Study).
Does Insect Spray Kill Dust Mites?
Most general insect sprays aren’t designed for dust mites. They typically target insects like cockroaches or flies—not microscopic mites.
- Dust mites are arachnids, not insects, and live deep in fabrics—making surface sprays less effective.
- Some multi-purpose sprays claim to work against mites, but effectiveness varies greatly.
Check if the label lists dust mites. If not, it’s unlikely to be effective. Consult your doctor before using any chemical treatments.
Does Bleach Kill Dust Mites?
Yes, bleach can kill dust mites, but only under the right conditions. A diluted solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) can kill mites on hard surfaces and in laundry—but it’s less effective in cold washes.
A study found that a bleach activator called sodium lauroyloxybenzene sulfonate (OBS-12) significantly enhanced bleach’s mite-killing power in low-temperature washes. OBS-12 was more effective than regular chlorine bleach under these conditions.
Always check care labels and follow safety guidelines. Consult your doctor if you have sensitivities or health concerns.
Does Dettol Kill Dust Mites?
Dettol contains chloroxylenol, which kills bacteria and viruses—but there’s limited evidence that it kills dust mites directly.
- It may help reduce allergens on surfaces but shouldn’t be relied on for mite eradication. Dettol Australia does not currently claim it kills dust mites.
Final Thoughts
While a few chemicals can kill dust mites instantly, your best defence is a multi-step approach: wash bedding in hot water (60°C or above), vacuum with a HEPA filter, reduce humidity below 50%, and use mite-proof covers.
Always read labels and consult manufacturers. For allergy sufferers, use products formulated specifically for dust mite control.
Want more practical advice and science-backed tips? Explore our full Dust Mite Allergy Blog.
