As much as we’d like not to think about it, our homes can be a haven for creepy crawlies. Ants, bed bugs, and woodworms are familiar intruders, but there’s one that tends to go under the radar: mould mites.

The Prokil team have years of experience tackling all sorts of property problems, so we know all about the trouble mould mites can cause. Below, we look at what these pests actually are, the risks they pose, and whether or not they can spread throughout your home.

What are mould mites?

Mould mites are tiny arachnids belonging to the same family as spiders and ticks. They’re no bigger than 0.3 mm and are often transparent or white, though some may appear pale brown or grey. As the name suggests, they feed on mould, fungi, and other organic matter.

How can I tell if my home has mould mites?

Mould mites are nearly invisible to the naked eye, making them tricky to spot. However, there are some telltale signs of an infestation:

• White frosts or brown stains on surfaces
• Grey or brown “dust” or “biomass” under shelves or near food
• Clusters of little white dots moving across surfaces

Are mould mites a health hazard?

Mould mites themselves aren’t a major risk. They don’t bite or cause serious health issues, though they might cause minor skin irritation if touched. The real problem is what they signal: mould growth in your home.

Mould can cause serious health issues, especially in people with weakened immune systems, allergies, or respiratory conditions. Common issues include coughing and wheezing, shortness of breath, hay fever, and lung infections. In severe cases, it can even lead to immune system disorders and neurological problems. This is why removing it early is so important.

Can mould mites spread?

Yes, mould mites can spread. In fact, given the right conditions, they can spread incredibly quickly – a female can lay anywhere between 500 and 800 eggs in her lifetime.

There are three main reasons why mould mites spread:

• As a mould mite population grows, overcrowding can force some individuals to seek new food sources, causing infestations in other damp or mouldy areas of your home.
• Sudden changes in temperature or humidity can also cause mould mites to migrate in search of more suitable conditions.
• Unintentional transportation of contaminated items (e.g. food, clothing) can spread mould mites to new locations.

How can I get rid of mould mites?

Getting rid of mould mites requires tackling both the underlying moisture problem and the mites themselves. While there are temporary ways to reduce the mite population, they won’t solve the issue long-term. Mould is the primary food source and breeding ground for these mites, so as long as it’s present, there’s a high chance of re-infestation.

Mould can be stubborn and difficult to completely remove yourself, especially when it’s reached a stage where mould mites have taken hold. In these cases, it’s best to call in a professional. They can thoroughly inspect your property, understand the full extent of the problem, and provide a targeted treatment to get rid of both mould and mould mites for good.

Book a professional mould survey today

Don’t let mould, mites, or damp take over your home! As the South’s leading property care experts, we have the tools and expertise to tackle these issues and restore your home to a clean, healthy space once more.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• With over half a century of experience, we’ve tackled every kind of property issue imaginable. No matter the size or severity of the problem, you can count on us for a permanent solution. Just read through our case studies to see our results for yourself!
• We always put you first. We work around your schedule, minimise disruption, and keep you informed every step of the way. You’ll never feel left out of the loop.
• Our 20-year workmanship guarantee gives you total peace of mind in the quality of our results.

Ready to get started? Book a survey online or call us on 0800 048 9488 today!