House dust mites can be found in any home – now matter how rigorous the ‘nesting’ process was – and are the main triggers of allergies such as asthma and hayfever. These microscopic beasties thrive in warm, humid houses and feed on dust particles, namely human skin. However new mums shouldn’t worry, it’s easy to keep these mites at bay with a simple, regular cleaning routine that is safe to carry out around babies.
Although carpets are ideal for young children and cut the risk of bumps and scrapes, they can be a ripe breeding ground for dust mites and can contain more than four times their own weight in germs and bacteria. According to ITCH (Institute for Total Carpet Hygiene) the average carpet can contain a wide variety of fibres, dead skin cells, insect body parts, animal hairs, dirt and bacteria which is not good news for youngsters.
Dry vacuuming only removes the surface layer of dust and debris and the only way to effectively reduce the number of dust mites and bacteria living and breeding in carpets is to wash them. To protect sensitive babies from too much contact with dust mites it’s a good idea to wash your carpet more often than before – at least once every 3-6 months. This will keep mites under control and with accidental food spills and stray crumbs more likely with children around, it’s a good way to lift stains and keep carpets fresh.
Hiring a professional to wash your carpets is expensive and can cost you more than purchasing your own carpet washer which you can then use to refresh your carpets on a regular basis. Make sure you choose a good model that agitates deep into the carpet pile is lightweight and easy to fill up and empty. Look out for features such as additional tools to wash stairs and upholstery and flexible hoses that can be used on awkward areas.
The Vax Rapide Deluxe (£149.99) is an affordable upright carpet washer with a rotating brush bar which agitates deep into carpet fibres to loosen and lift harboured dirt, germs and dust mites to leave your carpet refreshed.
Vax V-025 Rapide carpet washer:
- Washes carpets
- Powerful motor helps carpets to dry quickly
- Rotating brushbar agitates deep into carpet fibres to loosen and lift embedded dirt and stains
- Lightweight, easy to store and manoeuvre
- Easy to fill, empty and use
- Handle lays flat for easy cleaning under and around furniture
Finally, make sure you open lots of windows while washing your carpets as dust mites will love the extra humidity, and leave them open for a few hours afterwards to ward off any stray mites and leave the room clean and fresh.
For further information visit www.vax.co.uk or www.itch.org.uk.