EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DUST MITES, THE LEADING CAUSE OF RESPIRATORY ALLERGIES
How to recognise a respiratory allergy?
Nearly 30% of the world’s population suffers from allergies, almost ten times more than in the 1960s. Allergies are ranked as the 4th most common chronic illness worldwide by the WHO. They estimate that by 2050, up to half of the population may be affected.

Frequent sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy, watery or red eyes, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, wheezing or coughing, fatigue and difficulty concentrating are the main symptoms of dust mite allergy. These inflammations can lead to asthma, conjunctivitis, rhinitis or eczema.

Why are we suffering more from respiratory allergies?
The environment we live in plays a significant role in explaining why the prevalence of allergic diseases has increased so much in such a short time. Our homes, which are modern and better insulated, are paradoxically more conducive to the development of allergens, particularly dust mites, because they are less ventilated and ever more heated. Sensitivity usually occurs when the concentration of dust mites reaches around 100 per gram of dust. Yet, half of people’s homes exceed this sensitivity threshold value.
Up to 2 million dust mites live in our beds
Dust mites nest where humans live, as they feed on microparticles of skin and hair that we shed night and day. The bedroom and, in particular, the mattress, pillows and blankets are an ideal setting. Here, they have a warm temperature, plenty of dead cells, humidity and dark spaces. After just one week without washing, a pillowcase would contain up to 200 times more bacteria than the kitchen sink...

How to prevent dust mite allergies?
- Ventilate rooms daily and avoid humidity
- Wash bedsheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers once a week, for at least 30 minutes at 60°C
- Wash curtains regularly
- Lay bed linen and rugs outside in sunny weather, because dust mites cannot stand the sun
- Avoid carpets or clean them regularly
- Steam mattresses and carpets once or twice a week
- Avoid open furniture as much as possible
- Dust the house every week
- Avoid hoarding belongings and items that are no longer of use
- Clean washable surfaces
- Regularly disinfect all toys
Natural treatment to prevent dust mite allergies
Getting rid of all dust mites from fabrics and living spaces is virtually impossible. Nevertheless their presence can be radically reduced! Laurastar’s Dry Microfine Steam (DMS) has proven to be an effective and natural way to disinfect all surfaces without the harmful effects of chemical products on our health and the environment.

DMS is a reliable alternative for disinfecting the home and textiles. It works gently and avoids the need to use chemicals.
In conclusion: take preventative action
Allergies have been on the rise for almost half a century and have become a global public health concern. Some treatments can alleviate or control symptoms, but it is high time to address the problem at its source.
Taking preventative action by preventing the proliferation of dust mites in our homes is becoming a necessity. With a few simple steps, natural solutions and common sense, allergies can be reduced.