The Hidden Dangers of Household Dust and How Silk Bedding Can Help Protect You

This article discusses the dangers of household dust - allergy, asthma, and reactions to the dangerous chemicals and compounds dust contains - and offers tips for minimizing dust in the home, including the use of naturally hypoallergenic, pure silk sheets.

If you're a regular reader of this blog, you know that Mulberry Park Silks pillowcases and sheets are hypoallergenic and resistant to common allergens like mold and dust mites. We spend a lot of time discussing this, for two reasons: mold and dust are common allergic reactions and asthma triggers and we are very proud of our hygienic silk sheets bedding. In addition, several members of our Mulberry Park Silks family are highly sensitive to dust and/or asthmatic, so we consider ourselves veterans in the war on household dust.

New Dangers of Dust Are Documented

As allergy sufferers, parents of children with asthma, and marketers of hypoallergenic silk bedding, we make a point of staying on top of any news related to allergies, particularly in the home. We're revisiting the topic of household dust because we've seen quite a bit of disturbing reporting on the subject lately, most prominently in the August 2024 issue of Consumer Reports featuring the cover story, "The Danger in Your Dust."

Beyond your basic dust mite allergy, this article expands on dangerous chemicals and compounds found in house dust -- including lead, forever chemicals like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), microplastics, pesticides, and more -- that individuals regularly come in contact with and ingest.

Consumer Reports is publicly highlighting dangers that have been well-documented by research institutions in the medical and health community; Yale School of Public Health published a recent study on PFAS in dust, and the Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University, identified phthalates in dust back in 2016.

Dr. Rizwan Bashir, Neurologist at AICA Orthopedics in Atlanta, weighs in:

"Household dust can be a significant trigger for respiratory issues, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory allergies. Dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander are common components of household dust that can exacerbate symptoms, leading to increased coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath."

This blog takes a close look at dust, dust mites, and some of the more recently identified -- and dangerous -- compounds found in household dust. We've asked experts to weigh in and share their advice for controlling dust and minimizing dust allergy symptoms, including the use of pure silk bedding.

What is Household Dust Made Of?

Household dust is a complex mixture of tiny particles that accumulate on surfaces throughout our homes. Dust is composed of organic and inorganic materials that vary based on location, climate, household activities, and more.

Dust typically includes dead skin cells shed by humans and pets (ugh, we know), textile and paper fibers, pollen, pet dander, dust mites and their waste products, bacteria, mold spores, and fine particles of soil and other outdoor debris tracked in on shoes or blown in through open windows. In urban environments, dust may also contain air pollution from vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions.

The varying components of dust make it a trigger for allergic symptoms, particularly for those with a pollen allergy, pet allergy, or other respiratory sensitivities. Dust contains several allergy triggers, but dust mites are among the most serious culprits for triggering a sneezing fit.

Dust Mites: Microscopic Creatures that Trigger Allergy and Asthma Symptoms

 

Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that thrive in household environments, particularly in bedding, soft furnishings, and carpets. These tiny creatures, measuring only about 0.3 millimeters in length, feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and pets. Dust mite populations flourish in warm spaces where the relative humidity is high, making our homes (and beds) ideal habitats.

While the mites themselves don't bite or directly harm humans, their fecal matter and decomposing bodies become a major component of household dust. These particles contain dust mite protein which is a potent allergen for sensitive people. When inhaled through the nasal passage or allowed to come in contact with the skin, these dust mite particles can trigger allergic reactions, an asthma attack, or other respiratory issues.

The immune system of sensitive individuals overreacts to these proteins, leading to dust mite allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and in more severe cases, difficulty breathing. A house dust mite allergy can also worsen symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema).

Dust mite allergies are particularly problematic in bedrooms, where people spend a significant portion of their time sleeping. Especially in close proximity to areas where dust collects, particularly near bedding and box springs.

Using pure silk bedding -- like the 100 percent mulberry silk pillowcases, sheets and duvet covers from Mulberry Park Silks -- goes a long way to minimizing dust mite allergens, as silk is naturally resistant to dust mites. Silk is made from the fibers of the cocoon of the bombyx mori silkworm, a naturally hygienic and protective environment that repels dust, mold and other irritants.

Danger Beyond Allergies: Dust Contains Harmful Chemicals and Toxins

As we noted earlier, research continues to find that dust is more than just an annoyance or allergy trigger. It may be difficult to believe, but regular household dust contains dangerous chemicals, compounds, and pollutants that you do not want anywhere near your home or family.

Dr. Sam Hilton, Doctor of Osteopathy at AICA Orthopedics, sounds the alarm about the health risks of dangerous dust:

"Recent studies have highlighted that household dust can contain a variety of harmful compounds, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), lead, flame retardants, and even pesticide residues. These pollutants can contribute to a range of health issues, from minor irritations to more severe long-term health problems, such as neurodevelopmental issues in children and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases."

With this in mind, it is clear that minimizing dust in your home is of paramount importance to your family's health and well-being.

Tips for Minimizing Exposure to Toxic Dust

 

Fortunately, there are simple things you can do to minimize dust exposure and reduce dust levels in your home.

1. Regular cleaning: Vacuum carpets and rugs at least twice a week using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Dust hard surfaces with a damp cloth or microfiber duster to trap particles rather than disperse them. Clean from "top to bottom," dusting from the ceiling downward to prevent fine dust particles from collecting on clean surfaces.
2. Declutter: Reduce the number of objects on display that can collect dust. The fewer surfaces dust can settle on, the less dust accumulation you'll have overall.
3. Use an air purifier: High-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters can effectively remove indoor dust and airborne particles and improve air quality.
4. Change bedding frequently: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers weekly in hot water (at least 130°F) to kill dust mites and remove accumulated dust.
5. Vacuum upholstery/launder slipcovers: Also make sure to regularly wash soft toys, which collect dust.
6. Control humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to discourage dust mite growth. Use dehumidifiers if necessary.
7. Replace carpets with hard flooring: Hard surfaces like hardwood, tile, or vinyl are easier to keep dust-free than carpets. Use doormats at all entrances to help trap harmful dust before it enters the home.
8. Groom pets regularly: Brush pets outside to reduce the amount of dander and fur they shed indoors.
9. Use high-efficiency allergy filters in your HVAC system and change them regularly (90 days is a good guideline).
10. Keep windows closed: On high-pollen or pollution days, keep windows closed to prevent outdoor dust and hay fever-inducing pollen from entering.
11. Use protective covers: Encase mattresses, box springs, and pillows in dust-proof or allergen-impermeable covers.
12. Use allergy-friendly bedding like pure silk sheets and pillowcases.

Silk Sheets and Pillowcases Can Help Reduce Dust-Related Issues

Using allergy-friendly bedding like bamboo, modal, and -- especially -- silk is a fantastic way to keep your sleeping environment pure and protect yourself from hazardous dust while you sleep. As a hypoallergenic, temperature-regulating, and moisture-wicking fabric, silk has significant advantages over other bedding fabrics (especially cotton) when it comes to protecting yourself from dust.

"Silk pillowcases can be beneficial in reducing dust-related issues due to their hypoallergenic properties," said Atlanta-based chiropractor, Dr. Todd Maletich, DC. "Unlike cotton, silk is less likely to attract dust mites and other allergens. Additionally, the smooth surface of silk pillowcases can help prevent the accumulation of dust and other particles, making them a healthier choice for individuals with sensitive skin or respiratory conditions."

Mulberry Park Silks: Your Best Choice for Easy-Care Silk Bedding and Accessories

Along with being an essential tool for keeping your home clean and hygienic, silk bedding is an investment in beauty and luxury. Silk is wonderful for your hair and skin, and delivers an indulgent look and feel that is truly incomparable. You deserve to get the very best value for your silk dollar, which is why Mulberry Park Silks should be your source for silk bedding.

All of our sheets, pillowcases, and accessories are made with 100% pure mulberry silk of the highest grade (6A) in a luxurious charmeuse weave. Our silk is independently certified Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX® for safety and easy care guidelines.

Finally, we stand behind our products; we are a US-based company with a warehouse, corporate offices, and customer service division proudly headquartered in Branford, CT. Feel free to give us a call with any questions about our product. We are here to help!

Our Clients Also Ask These Questions

Is it dangerous to breathe in dust?

Over time, breathing in dust can trigger allergies and allergic symptoms as well as more serious respiratory issues.

Is dust in the house dangerous?

Household dust has been shown to contain not just common allergens, but also dangerous chemicals such as PFAS, lead, microplastics, pesticides, and more. Over time, these can prove to be dangerous.

Is dust hazardous to health?

Dust can be immediately hazardous to the health of anyone with allergies or sensitive skin. Over time, exposure to dust that contains chemicals can cause other respiratory, cardiovascular, or neurological issues.

Is sleeping in a dusty room bad for you?

Sleeping in a dusty room can trigger allergies due to dust mites, pet dander, and more. Some household dust has also been found to contain harmful chemicals that can potentially be ingested while sleeping in a dusty room.

Can you get sick from house dust?

House dust can trigger allergies and skin irritation. It is also possible that continued exposure to allergens and some of the more powerful pollutants in house dust can trigger more severe reactions in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

What happens if I don't dust my room?

If you don't dust your room, you will be more susceptible to dust-related allergies, irritants, and pollutants, particularly dust mites, which are a common source of allergic reactions in humans.

How do you kill dust mites?

Dust mites can be killed by vacuuming away dust; wiping down surfaces, and washing bedding in warm or hot water.

How do you know if you have dust mites?

You cannot see dust mites, but you can be alerted to their presence with symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, runny nose, skin irritation, and even wheezing.

Can you feel dust mites walking on you?

No, you cannot feel dust mites. These are microscopic creatures.