Types of Mites In House and How To Get Rid of Them

Here Are the Most Common Mites In Your Home

• House Dust Mite / Bed Mite
• Mould Mites
• Spider Mite
• Storage Mite
• Scabies Mite
• demodex mites / face mites / Mites found on people
  
• chicken mites 
• bird mites
• clover mites 

Read on to learn more about each mite:

Most Common Mite - House Dust Mites

• Explanation: Tiny creatures thriving in bedding, carpets, and upholstery, feeding on dead skin cells.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: No, they are typically too small to be seen without magnification.
• Allergies: Many are allergic to dust mite droppings, triggering asthma and allergic reactions especially when inside and in your bed. 
• Lifespan: Live about 2 to 4 months, dying from starvation or environmental changes.
• Types of Dust Mite: There are many species of dust mites but they are very similar -
  
  • European Dust Mite -Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus.  
  • American Dust Mite - Dermatophagoides farinae  
  • World Wide Dust Mite- Euroglyphus maynei

Getting Rid of Dust Mites 6 Steps

 Read our 6 step guide in full - Breathe Better And Remove Skin Irritation

Found In Mouldy Rooms - Mould Mites

• Explanation: Mold mites, also known as "storage mites" or "mildew mites," thrive in areas with high humidity and mold growth, feeding on decomposing organic matter.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: Yes, they are small but can be seen with the naked eye, often appearing as tiny white or gray specks.
• Allergies: Can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues in some individuals due to mold they feed on.
• Lifespan: Live for about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on environmental conditions.

Getting Rid of Mold Mites

• Remove Mold: Clean and eliminate any mold from your home, especially in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
• Control Humidity: Use dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low, preventing mold growth that attracts mold mites.
• Regular Cleaning: Frequently vacuum and clean surfaces to reduce organic matter and dust that may harbor mold mites.

 

Found in Food - Storage Mites 

• Explanation: Found in stored foods like grains, can migrate to homes through contaminated food.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: Yes, they can be seen, but they are very small and may be hard to spot.
• Allergies: People can develop allergies, causing respiratory issues.
• Lifespan: Several weeks to months, depending on conditions.

Getting Rid of Storage Mites 

• Seal Food: Store food in airtight containers to keep mites out.
• Clean Regularly: Clean pantry shelves and vacuum to remove dust and crumbs.
• Reduce Humidity: Keep storage areas dry and use a dehumidifier if needed.

 

Found On Human Skin - Scabies Mites 

• Explanation: Burrow into the skin, causing scabies, which leads to intense itching and rash.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: No, they are not visible without a microscope.
• Allergies: Allergic reactions occur due to the body's response to the mites and their eggs.
• Lifespan: Live for about 1 to 2 months, transmitted through direct skin contact.

Getting Rid of Scabies Mites 

• Treat with Medication: Use prescription creams or lotions from a doctor to kill the mites.
• Wash Bedding and Clothing: Wash all bedding, clothes, and towels in hot water to eliminate mites and eggs.
• Clean Surfaces: Vacuum and clean surfaces in your home to remove any mites that may be present.
  

 

Found Near Birds - Bird Mites 

• Explanation: Parasites feeding on birds, can infest homes if birds nest nearby.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: Yes, they can be seen without magnification.
• Allergies: Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions upon contact with humans.
• Lifespan: Live for a few weeks to several months, depending on host availability.

Getting Rid of Bird Mites 

• Remove Bird Nests: Safely remove any bird nests from your property to prevent mites from entering your home.
• Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum and clean areas where birds have been, including nests and droppings, to remove mites.
• Use Insecticides: Apply appropriate insecticides designed for mites, following instructions carefully to treat infested areas.
  

 

Found in Hair - Cheyletiella Mites 

• Explanation: Known as "walking dandruff," often found on pets but can transfer to humans.
• Visible to the Naked Eye: Yes, they are relatively large for mites and can be seen moving.
• Allergies: Can cause mild skin irritation and allergic responses in sensitive individuals.
• Lifespan: Live for about 2 to 3 weeks outside a host, longer on pets.

 

Getting Rid of Cheyletiella Mites 

• Treat Pets: Use a vet-recommended treatment, such as special shampoos or topical medications, to eliminate mites on pets.
• Wash Bedding: Wash your pet's bedding and any blankets they use in hot water to remove mites and eggs.
• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your home frequently to remove any mites and their eggs from carpets and furniture.

 

Follow our 6 step guide to get rid of mites