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The following steps are of questionable benefit, and we can not recommend
them based on current information:
- The role of chemical treatment of mites in carpets is unclear. Benzyl benzoate
works very well in the laboratory to kill dust mites on contact, but has not been shown
to decrease mite allergen levels in homes enough to decrease symptoms. Tannic acid does
not affect the mites themselves, but works to inactivate the allergen in their waste
particles. It is less effective and shorter lasting than previously believed. Neither
of these is recommended by the current National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
guidelines.
- Air cleaners, although widely used, have not been shown to be of significant benefit
for mite allergy. This is probably because mite allergens in the air settle to the floor
within a half-hour after disturbance. Air cleaners are more useful for smaller allergens,
such as animal danders, which stay airborne for long periods of time.
- Studies have shown little or no allergen in hot air ducts. Hot air duct cleaning
and the use of vent filters have not been shown to be helpful or needed.
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