D2.396 - Evaluating Advanced Fabric Care Technologies for Effective Dust Mite Eradication to Mitigate the Risk of Asthma
Background
House dust mites (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus are a major source of perennial allergen and are commonly found across global household environments. They pose a significant risk to human health through their allergenic proteins (Der p 1, Der p 2, and Der f 1) which are produced by these mites, particularly in their faecal matter and shells. These proteins have been found to be a significant cause of allergic asthma. Epidemiological studies indicate that over 75 million people are sensitized to HDM allergen of the major allergen Der p 1, with nearly 50% of asthmatics affected. Negligence of routine fabric washing promotes HDM proliferation in pillowcases, bedding and towels, which act as a breeding ground for HDMs. This study highlights the urgent need for awareness of tumble drying as a practical and impactful solution in reducing HDMs, improving indoor air quality (IAQ), and alleviating asthma symptoms.
Method
The study presents a specific focus on a washer dryer vapour cycle, which utilizes high temperatures and steam to target HDM viability.
Heat Escape Method:
Fabric samples (10x15cm) were cut.
Approximately 50 HDMs were distributed evenly across the marked test areas and allowed to equilibrate for ~24hr.
Fabric samples were loaded into the washer dryer.
The number of viable HDMs found in the control and test samples were quantified.
Results
Out of a total of 50 mites added to untreated control samples, average values of 39, 45, and 43 HDMs were recovered post-incubation. Comparatively, of the ~50 mites added to the test samples, 0 viable mites were recovered post-incubation and thus showed a >99.9% reduction of HDMs after treatment with the washer dryer.
Conclusion
Conventional washing practices, of cold-water washing, have shown limited efficacy of reducing HDM populations. Such ineffectiveness highlights the need for more robust strategies to reduce allergen exposure. One method is the use of tumble dryers, which employ heat cycles that are effective in killing HDMs and reducing associated allergens in household fabrics. Initial studies demonstrate that this advanced cycle is highly effective in eradicating HDMs, making it a valuable addition to household cleaning practices.
