Can rug cleaning help reduce allergy symptoms?

Absolutely. Removing dust mites, pet dander, and allergens from rugs can significantly reduce allergy symptoms and improve indoor air quality.

Dust Mites in Rugs: What They Are & How to Remove Them

Q: Can dust mites live in rugs?

Yes. Rugs are one of the most common hiding places for dust mites because they trap dead skin cells, moisture, and dust—all things mites thrive on.

Q: How often should rugs be professionally cleaned?

Most homes should have rugs cleaned once per year. Homes with pets, children, or allergy sufferers should clean every 6 months.

Q: Does steam cleaning kill dust mites?

Yes. Steam cleaning or hot water extraction kills dust mites and removes their waste and allergens from rug fibers.

Say Goodbye to Allergies with a Deep-Cleaned Rug

If you’ve ever walked barefoot on your rug and felt a tickle in your nose, you’re not imagining things. Dust mites—microscopic pests that thrive in rugs—could be triggering allergies, asthma, and other health issues right under your feet.

At NY Steam Clean, we specialize in professional rug cleaning that doesn’t just make your home look cleaner—it makes it feel healthier.

👉 Schedule your rug cleaning today. Call 917-818-2412

What Are Dust Mites and Why Should You Care?

Dust mites are invisible pests that feed on dead skin cells and love warm, humid environments—like your area rugs, bedding, and upholstered furniture. While they don’t bite or sting, they do leave behind droppings and body parts that can cause intense allergic reactions.

According to the American Lung Association, over 80% of homes in the U.S. have detectable levels of dust mite allergens.

Symptoms may include:

Sneezing
Runny nose
Wheezing or coughing
Itchy eyes or skin
Asthma flare-ups

Why Rugs Are a Hotspot for Dust Mites

Area rugs act like giant sponges. They absorb moisture, trap dead skin, pollen, pet dander, and more—all perfect food sources for dust mites.

Vacuuming helps, but it often only removes surface-level particles. Deep within your rug fibers, dust mites are still thriving.

If you live in New York City, you’re likely dealing with higher humidity and tightly closed windows—conditions that make things even worse. That’s why we recommend professional rug cleaning at least once a year.

Professional Rug Cleaning vs. DIY: What's More Effective?

Here’s the truth: most store-bought rug shampoos and vacuums aren’t powerful enough to eliminate dust mites.

At NY Steam Clean, we use hot water extraction—also known as steam cleaning—to:

Penetrate deep into rug fibers
Kill dust mites at the source
Extract their waste and allergens
Leave your rug fresh, soft, and allergen-free

💡 Learn more about our carpet and rug cleaning process and how we keep dust mites in rugs at bay.

What Else Is Lurking in Your Rug?

Besides dust mites, your rugs might be harboring:

Mold spores
Pet hair and dander
Bacteria and food particles
Pollutants from shoes and the outdoors

According to the EPA, dirty rugs can negatively affect indoor air quality, especially in tightly sealed apartments.

5 Signs It’s Time for a Deep Rug Cleaning

You don’t need a microscope to know it’s time. Look for these signs:

Unexplained allergy symptoms
Musty or stale odor
Visible dirt or staining
Pets or kids frequently playing on the rug
You can’t remember the last time it was cleaned

Simple Habits to Keep Dust Mites in Check

While professional cleaning handles the heavy lifting, here are things you can do in between:

Wash sheets weekly in hot water (130°F+)
Use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses
Vacuum with a HEPA filter
Lower your home humidity below 50%

More tips from the Mayo Clinic

Extend Your Results: Clean More Than Just Your Rug

Dust mites don’t just live in rugs. They thrive in:

Mattresses → Mattress Cleaning Service
Curtains & Drapes → Drape Cleaning
Sofas and Chairs → Upholstery Cleaning

We recommend cleaning these every 6–12 months as part of your allergy defense plan.

FAQ: Rug Cleaning & Dust Mites

Can dust mites live in rugs?
Yes. Rugs are one of their favorite hiding places because of warmth, moisture, and trapped skin cells.

How often should rugs be professionally cleaned?
At least once a year. Every 6 months if you have pets or allergies.

Does steam cleaning kill dust mites?
Absolutely. Hot water extraction at high temperatures is the most effective method to eliminate them.

Can rug cleaning help reduce asthma symptoms?
Yes. Removing allergens from rugs can reduce asthma attacks triggered by dust mites.

Don’t Let Dust Mites Live Rent-Free in Your Home

Fresh air starts from the floor up. A deep rug cleaning not only improves the look of your space—it helps your family breathe easier.

📞 Call 917-818-2412

Let NY Steam Clean handle the dirty work so you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier home.