Mites are tiny eight-legged creatures, related to spiders and ticks, that feed on skin cells shed by humans and animals. Although hundreds of mite species live in homes, only a few cause issues for people.
What are the main types of mites in houses?
The three most common mite species that inhabit human dwellings are:
- Dust mites – Feed on shed human skin cells and live in bedding, upholstered furniture, and carpets.
- Pantry/grain mites – Infest stored food products.
- Chiggers – Bite humans and live in tall grasses and bushes.
What conditions allow mites to thrive indoors?
Mites prefer warm, humid environments with temperatures around 68-77°F. They flourish in homes that:
- Have high humidity levels above 50%
- Accumulate dust
- Have carpeting
- Have pets that shed dander and skin
- Store food openly
Where are mites commonly found in a home?
Mites congregate in places that provide ideal temperature, humidity, and food sources such as:
- Mattresses
- Pillows
- Bedding
- Carpets and rugs
- Upholstered furniture
- Stuffed toys
- Pet sleeping areas
- Pantry foods like flour, cereals, pasta
How do mites get into your house?
Mites and their eggs enter homes by:
- Hitchhiking on clothing, bags, and shoes
- Traveling on pets’ fur
- Blowing in through open windows and doors
- Infesting purchased fabrics or old furniture
- Coming in food packages and grains
Do mites bite humans?
Most household mites do not bite humans. However:
- Dust mites may cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.
- Chigger mites bite and cause itchy welts.
- Bird and rodent mites occasionally bite humans when their regular hosts die off.
How can I tell if my house has a mite infestation?
Signs of mite infestation include:
- Visible mites or small white dots moving on surfaces
- Allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes
- Itchy skin rashes
- Bites on the skin
- Finding mites in stored food
How can I get rid of mites in my house?
To control mites:
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water (>130°F)
- Vacuum and dust furniture frequently
- Remove carpets and upholstered furniture if possible
- Use dehumidifiers and air conditioning to reduce humidity below 50%
- Discard infested foods and thoroughly clean pantries
- Use extermination sprays and powders on mattresses and furniture
How can I prevent future mite infestations?
To deter mites:
- Install wood, tile, or vinyl flooring instead of carpet
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Use mattress and pillow covers
- Frequently dust and vacuum
- Control humidity levels below 50%
- Remove clutter
- Clean pet sleeping areas
- Store food in airtight containers
Conclusion
Mites are microscopic creatures that live in home environments with warmth, humidity, and access to shed skin cells or foods. The most problematic mites are dust mites, pantry mites, and chiggers. Mite infestations cause allergies, rashes, and bites in some cases. Controlling humidity, regularly cleaning, and using extermination methods can get rid of mites and stop future infestations.