How Long Do Dust Mites Live?

Are you looking for a way to get rid of these microscopic creatures? If yes, you have visited the right place. Dust mites can create a great nuisance in your house and cause harm to you and your family.

As you already know, these microscopic relatives of spiders are usually found in mattresses, beddings, carpets, rugs, and curtains of your house. 

However, you must know that getting rid of these pests is impossible. But there are some preventative measures that you can take to control the population. So, if you want to know more about the dust mites, keep reading to get more information.

How Long Do Dust Mites Live?

Dust mites usually feed on dead skin cells and other organic matter found in soil. Recent studies have shown that males dust mites can only live for a month or so. While female dust mites have a longer life expectancy of up to 90 days. That’s the reason why most homes are infested with dust mites. 

Even if you clean your home thoroughly, there will still be some population of dust mites living deep inside the mattresses, beddings, or carpet fibers.

As you already know, these spots are the best place to grow their infestation as they have continuous access to food. So, when you suspect any signs of infestation, you should consider taking preventative measures to control the dust mite population. 

How Long Can Dust Mites Live Without Food?

These dust mites are likely to live for only 3-4 months as they usually like moist and dark places where they can get more food supplies. They require a continuous supply of food to fight for their survival. That means they are likely to feed on secretions and skin.

However, if they fail to find a host, they are likely to survive only for a few days. You should know that dust mites take 10-17 days to infest their area. Recent studies have shown that the entire life cycle lasts for 90 days only. 

Do Dust Mites Live On Your Body?

No. Dust mites are not among those pests or insects that feed on human blood. That means they don’t live on your body. Although, you might find them in your clothes and other fiber materials. You should know that dust mites living on your body are entirely a myth. 

According to recent studies, dust mites usually feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and animals or dander found in the dust. Dust particles consist of animal fur, skin particles, and dirt from the outside. So, it is better to wash your clothes thoroughly with hot water to effectively get rid of these tiny creatures. 

Can Dust Mites Crawl On You?

No. As discussed above, they may hitchhike in clothing, fabrics, etc., but crawling is not among the things they do on humans. If you are experiencing allergic symptoms like skin irritation, reddishness, runny nose, etc., these are the causes of dust mite exposure. Recent studies have shown that dust mites cannot crawl on humans as they don’t feed on human blood. Instead, they usually feed on flakes of dead skin cells or dander that fall from animals and humans. 

Where Do Dust Mites Live?

These microscopic creatures can live in beddings, mattresses, carpets, upholstered furniture, or curtains of your homes. You should know that they like dark, moist places where they can have the ultimate food supply. As you already know that they feed on dead human skin cells gathered inside the dust. 

When you begin to experience symptoms more frequently, it is a major sign that your house is infested with dust mites. Therefore, it is better to take preventative measures as soon as possible to reduce their population and keep them from infesting your home faster. You should know that dust mites are not parasites or insects that feed on blood. 

What Are The Signs Of Dust Mites?

There are plenty of symptoms that you may experience, which clearly indicates that your home is infested with dust mites. So, whenever you feel these symptoms, it would be better to get rid of them as soon as possible. Here is a list of symptoms that you may undergo:

• Runny nose
• Red, itchy or watery eyes
• Sneezing 
• Throat, itchy nose, or roof of the mouth 
• Coughing 
• Postnasal drip 
• Facial pain and pressure 

When you begin to experience, taking effective measures will help you reduce their population significantly.

What Kills Dust Mites Naturally?

There are so many ways to kill dust mites naturally, but eradicating them completely is quite challenging. Everyone should know that dust mites cannot tolerate high temperatures, and eventually, it will kill them. So, here is a list of the top best dust mites killing techniques.  

• You should use an anti-dust bedding sheet made of tight woven covers, which prevent dust mites from lurking in or out. 
• You must control the humidity in your house as it is welcoming weather for dust mites to arrive at your home. 
• You can also use diatomaceous earth powder, which will kill the dust mites in direct contact. 

Do Dust Mites Live Outside?

As you know, dust mites also feed on dander, which means your little fur friend can also bring these creatures into your house. You should know that dust mites don’t remain airborne for too long as they settle down quickly.

Yes, dust mites can live outside but only for a short period. 

Also Read: How To Get Rid Of Dust Mites In Carpet Naturally

Where Do Dust Mites Come From In The First Place?

Dust mites are likely to grow their infestation to find dead skin cells like carpeting, furniture, and bedding. Stuffed animals and rugs can also provide a perfect place for infesting. You can find dust mites all over the world as they tend to favor a humid, moist, and dark environment. Once all conditions are met, they are likely to create their home instantly. 

Final Words

Now you know how long these microscopic creatures can live in your house.