What are Mites? Types, Signs, and How to Get Rid of Them

Whether they’re triggering your allergies or burrowing under your skin (yes, really), mites are tiny pests with big potential to bug you. These nearly invisible arthropods thrive in places you don’t want to think about. Here’s a closer look at mites and how to get rid of them. 

What Are Mites?

A member of the tick and spider family, mites are microscopic bugs with bloodsucking habits that can become a nuisance if you have an unknown infestation. They can be found in a wide variety of environments, from soil and water to plants, animals, and even inside the home. Although not all mites bite, the ones that do leave behind red, itchy bumps and rashes that can irritate the skin and possibly lead to an infection.

Types of Mites

While many mites are harmless or even beneficial, others can cause serious irritation, allergic reactions, or skin conditions in humans and animals. Understanding the different types of mites is key to identifying infestations, managing symptoms, and taking appropriate action.

Mold Mites

Mold mites love to eat mold and other fungi. If you have a mold infestation in a damp area of your home, it will likely attract these unwanted mites. Since they are so small and practically clear, it's nearly impossible to see an individual mold mite with the naked eye.

Clover Mites 

A common species of mites, clover mites feed on grasses and clover (hence the name) and are not blood feeders, so they don’t leave behind bite marks. If spotted, they can be seen inside near windows and windowsills and leave behind a red residue if crushed. 

House Dust Mites 

These translucent species live in mattresses, pillows, bedding, upholstered furniture, carpet, and curtains. Although they don’t cause bites, they can leave behind droppings and body fragments that are major indoor allergens. The best way to reduce or remove them is to regularly wash bed linens and clean floors and furniture often. 

Bird Mites 

As their name suggests, bird mites feast on the blood of birds and are most active at night. They are most often found in attics, eaves, gutters, and chimneys, and can make their way inside the home through vents or gaps. 

Chigger Mites 

Chigger mites can be found in heavily wooded areas and pastures with tall grass and weeds. Their larvae feed on the blood of animals and people, but adult chiggers are harmless. They thrive in warm and humid climates.  

Signs of a Mite Infestation

Mite signs depend largely on what type of mite is taking up space in your home—or on your skin. 

• Red, itchy bites that appear in clusters on the arms, neck, and face

• Swollen or blistered skin

• A pimple-like rash

• Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing unexplainably

The best way to determine if your bites are from mites is to visit your local dermatologist or have an exterminator perform an inspection to see if you have an infestation. 

How to Get Rid of Mites

Indoor mites like to burrow in bedding, drapes, and carpeting. That’s why the best way to get rid of mites is to clean your sheets, curtains, and other linens in hot water. This will effectively kill any live mites living in your linens.

Other tasks you can complete to show mites the boot include: 

1. Wet mopping floors 

2. Vacuuming rugs and carpet 

3. Deploying a dehumidifier in infested spaces 

4. Applying insecticide around the outside of your home 

5. Hiring a local exterminator