What are some signs that your home has dust mites?

If the temperature in a home is constantly at or above 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a humidity of 50 percent or higher, chances are dust mites are present. Dust mites live on carpeting, mattresses, pillows and upholstered furniture and float in the air when these items are disturbed.

Dust mites can be greatly reduced by removing the carpet from a room and keeping the humidity lower than 50 percent. Many stores sell mite-proof covers for mattresses and pillows. Dust mites cannot be removed by traditional cleaning methods. Many people with dust mite allergies are warned against cleaning too vigorously, because this may make allergies worse.