Chemical disinfectants and biocidal preparations used in households were tested in the laboratory for their ability to kill the house-dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae. Batches of ten specimens were soaked in aqueous solutions or suspensions containing 0.0, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 and 10.0% (by volume) of the test preparations. Direct effect was tested without food. Population effect was tested with food added. The results showed a high mortality with all preparations except for a regular carpet cleaner (containing detergents) and natamycin (a fungicide). Nevertheless, not all tested preparations are practical in the home environment. Best results in homes were obtained with a carpet cleaning solution which incorporates an acaricide (benzylbenzoate). This particular preparation has an outstanding acaricidal efficacy and can easily and routinely be used by the householder. The degree of cleanliness in the household is a measure of the number of house-dust mites and their allergens.