This well-known “grandma trick” is based on an ingredient that almost everyone has at home: baking soda combined with essential oils.

Baking soda is excellent at absorbing moisture and odors, creating an environment in which dust mites cannot thrive. Essential oils (especially tea tree or lavender oil) act as natural disinfectants and kill dust mites.

🧼 Grandma’s recipe: Baking soda treatment
What you need:

1 cup baking soda
10–15 drops of essential oil (tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus oil)
Fine sieve
Vacuum cleaner with a clean nozzle
Step by step:
Mix the ingredients: Thoroughly mix the baking soda and essential oil in a bowl to ensure the fragrance is evenly distributed.

Sprinkle the mattress: Using a sieve, sprinkle a thin layer of the mixture over the entire surface of the mattress.

Let it work: Leave the baking soda on for at least 1 to 2 hours (the longer, the better). The baking soda draws out moisture and grease, while the oils kill dust mites and bacteria. Vacuum thoroughly: Vacuum the mattress slowly and carefully on the highest setting.

☀️ More tried-and-tested tips from grandma:

Sun and frost: Dust mites cannot survive extreme temperatures or direct UV radiation. If possible, air your mattress in the sun or leave it in a cool place during the winter.

60°C wash: Wash your bedding and mattress protector at least every 14 days at a minimum of 60°C – this temperature kills dust mites.

Natural Vinegar Spray: Mix water and white vinegar in a 1:1 ratio, lightly spray the mattress surface with the solution, and allow it to dry thoroughly. Vinegar has antibacterial properties and neutralizes odors.

💡 An important note regarding “permanent”: House dust mites feed on human skin flakes and are therefore naturally found in homes. Unfortunately, they cannot be completely eradicated once and for all. However, if you repeat this baking soda treatment every two to three months, you will keep the mite population low and your mattress will remain hygienically clean and fresh!