Mites

Common mites in Indonesia

• Dust Mite (Dermatophagoides)

  Lives in mattresses and textiles; the most common trigger of respiratory allergies at home.

• Itch Mite (Sarcoptes scabiei)

  Burrows into skin and causes scabies; spreads between people through contact.

Signs of Mites

• Allergy symptoms worsening in the bedroom.
• Sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes on waking.
• Dust building up in mattresses and upholstery.

Why Mites are dangerous

Dust mites and their droppings are potent allergens that trigger allergic rhinitis, itchy eyes, and asthma attacks. Long-term bedroom exposure can lower sleep quality and respiratory health.

Mites behaviour & life cycle

Dust mites are microscopic and feed on flakes of dead human skin. They thrive in high humidity and warm temperatures — typical of Indonesia — especially in mattresses, pillows, carpets, and sofas. It is not the mites themselves but their droppings and body fragments that act as allergens triggering asthma and rhinitis.

How to prevent Mites

• Wash sheets and pillowcases in hot water regularly.
• Reduce humidity and air out mattresses periodically.
• Use anti-mite covers on mattresses and pillows.