Since we're changing household practices to combat global warming, and cold water laundering is one change...

Question

...is there any other way to insure the removal of dead skin cells, the food source for dust mites, than hot water laundering? Staying realistic with towels and sheets, we mustn't ignore one fact to face another. Is there a laundry additive for cold water that can accomplish it? Isn't such an additive an unrealistic approach?

Answer 1

I don't think we should 'save the planet' at any risk to our health.  If someone is allergic to dust mites then they should wash their bedding in very hot water or hot tumble dry to destroy the mites.  Personally I will do my utmost to recycle, save energy etc. but I will still wash my bedding and towels on a hot wash.

Answer 2

Eco or chemical, hot or cold, the key to getting rid of dust mites is removing their food source.

With the mattress attachment, give the mattress a good vacuum every week when you wash and change the linens.  It really only takes about 10 minutes.  Make sure you have a mattress pad/cover and pillow protectors.  Wash them, too, regularly.  

Cold water will absolutely clean your laundry.  If you can't dry the linens outside in the sun, which is terrific, the dryer is just fine.  (Just don't let them dry too hot or it will harm the material.)  Try the gentle cycle.

Answer 3

ok jade knows is right but that would damage you furniture exspecially if its that micro - fiber. my mom says to use cold water they will kill the dust mites off the sheets and clothes and i know it may sound werid but also vacoming beds (with no sheets or any thing) and couches... its cool to see how much dead skin and dust mites are actually in it....

Answer 4

Sunning. It is an old practice of leaving furniture, bedding, even stuffed animals out in the sun for the day. As I'm sure you know, the sun kills dust mites. Invest in a clothes line and line dry the clothes.