Some sources indicate that dust mites are responsible for 25% of all allergies and are the most important cause of asthma worldwide. These sources further indicate that perhaps 15-20% of the earth’s population is severely allergic to dust mite allergen!
Physician organizations such as the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) states that dust mite feces are a major source of allergen found in house dust. It is clear that dust mite feces is one of the most important and hazardous allergens found in indoor environments.
Dust mites live on dead human skin cells, (which comprise up to 80% of house dust!) as well as fungi and bacteria. They also live off water vapor, which we provide for them by perspiration and respiration, emitting approximately one pint of moisture per person per night. This is why mites are found even in areas of extremely low humidity and prevention strategies such as reducing humidity levels in the home are generally ineffective.
Dust mites are found in virtually all homes regardless how clean, with the principal source of exposure in the home being the bedroom. Dust mites are found primarily in mattresses, sheets and blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture. The average bedroom can be infested by millions of microscopic dust mites with up to 20% of the weight of an old pillow being dust mites!
In fact, while dust mites can be found throughout the home, 60% of them live in mattresses, making the bedroom the number one treatment priority. The bedroom provides a plentiful supply of shed human skin cells, warmth and humidity, making it an ideal environment for dust mites to thrive and multiply in. And, given that we spend up to one-third of our lives in the bedroom, we are also exposed to this highly potent allergen for long periods of time, increasing the likelihood of developing or aggravating allergic diseases. A dust mite will produce 20 to 100 fecal pellets per day. Once airborne, these potent allergens are inhaled where they can cause allergic illness in the first place and stimulate allergic reactions and asthma attacks in those that already have developed allergic disease.
The Anti-Allergen System is designed to clean and treat mattresses, carpeting, upholstery, rugs, wet cleanable window treatments, baseboards, windowsills and bedding. While servicing the bedroom is the highest priority, significant benefits may also result from cleaning and treating other areas where allergy sufferers spend lots of time. These areas include the upholstered furniture and carpeting in rooms where time is spent watching television, reading and so on.
Use hot water extraction to clean pre-sprayed areas. If using portable extraction equipment, be sure to place the machine outside the living space to prevent the spread of allergen laden exhaust within the living space. Use of low moisture, internal spray hand tools on upholstery and mattresses is highly recommended for speed drying and to reduce the potential for cleaning related problems. As always, test for colorfastness or color change in an inconspicuous area.
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