Can direct sunlight kill dust mites when we place mattresses and pillows in the suns rays?
Temperatures of 5560 °C for 20 minutes can kill dust mites. The air temperature in strong sunlight is usually not above 50 °C. The temperature in a mattress may not be high enough to kill mites. When we turn the mattress over, the mites escape to the other (inner) side. However, drying in the sun reduces the humidity in the mattress, and so, leaving it in the sun for 5 hours will stop the further growth of eggs. Does a new mattress contain dust mites? It may or may not. But when it is used for some time, dust mites will certainly be present. This is because humans shed skin scales during sleep which serves as nutrients for mites. After 4-6 months, when the mattress is vacuumed for dust higher levels of allergen will be found. What mattress type or characteristic does or does not contain dust mites? Over time, no mattress is completely devoid of dust mites. Synthetic fibers, coconut fibers, kapok and sponge mattresses are ideal havens for dust mites. Mite-proof covers should be used. If
