Dust mites in most cases are harmless to most people. They don’t carry diseases, however, they can cause allergic reactions in asthmatics and others who are allergic to their feces and body parts. Many people have no idea they are even allergic to dust mites.

Skin cells and scales, commonly called dander, are concentrated in areas where people and pest hang out, mattresses, couches and chairs, and carpeted areas. These areas often harbor millions of these microscopic mites. The average person sloughs off 1/3 ounce (10 grams) of dead skin a week and that gives dust mites a lot to eat.

If you happen to have cats and dogs they create even more dander for dust mites to eat. A typical mattress can contain thousands if not millions of dust mites. Sick yet?

Close to 100,000 mites can live in one square yard of carpet. Did you know a single dust mite produces about 18-20 waste droppings each day, each containing a protein which many people are allergic to. The proteins in that combination of feces and shed skin are what cause allergic reactions in humans.

Depending on the person and exposure, reactions can range from itchy or watery eyes, to sever in the hospital asthma attacks. And finally, unlike other types pests, you can never completely get rid of them. Sorry.