We find them hiding under our beds and in the forgotten corners of our home. Dust bunnies aren't just balls of fluff. Lurking inside are tiny microscopic arachnids we call dust mites.

They feed on dead skin cells that are sloughed from our bodies (and probably crumbs from cookies and such). Dust bunnies are just colonies of dust mites hatching, growing, eating, pooping, mating, and laying eggs. That is disgusting with a capital "D".

Many people develop severe allergies to dust mite droppings (ewww). Lie on a dust-infested rug, and you might break into hives. Breathe in those little suckers and you might break into an asthma attack.

Want to know how to stop dust mites before they start? read more

• You can purchase covers for your mattress and pillows that are made with anti-mite material. Pretty cool.
• Wash your sheets, duvet covers, and other bedding in hot water to kill dust mites and their eggs. This is something you should do once a week - not once a year.
• Get rid of clutter. Dust mites love to hide in quiet dark places.
• Ditch your carpets and rugs if you can. You don't even want to see what's living underneath them.
• Use a wet washcloth to wipe down corners and stairs, instead of a broom that just pushes those critters around.

Fit's Tips: Sounds like a lot? Don't fret. Worry about cleaning your bedroom first - that's where you spend most of your time.