Did you know?
We recently had a client call in about an infestation in the kitchen. Something was invading the cupboards and refrigerator, and destroying everything! Opened packages as well as sealed foods and foods left in plastic containers! What could be causing such damage to even sealed and refrigerated foods?
Believe it or not the issue was mold mites! What in the world are mold mites? Good question. Have you ever seen mold growing in damp, dark places? Well, mold mites are exactly what they sound like. They are tiny, microscopic bugs that live on and eat mold. Thousands of these tiny creatures can live on the smallest patches of mold, and are so small they are imperceptible to the human eye.
So, how do you know mold mites are there? According to Affordable Remediation & Emergency Services, “identifying mold mites with the naked eye is practically impossible. However, if you notice a patch of mold growing somewhere in your home, you may be able to spot an accompanying mold mite colony. The tiny insects are typically white or tan, and you can see them when they accumulate in an area. Although to your eyes they will seem like only a discolored patch, a high definition camera may be able to spot them. Try taking a picture up close and then zooming in all the way. You may just see the tiny mites and confirm that they are feasting on the mold growth” (U/A, U/D).
Mold mites are similar to other mites, but make up a small family of their own. Similar mites include cheese mites, flour mites, grain mites, and dust mites. Each one is distinguished by their food preference, and should be disposed of immediately if located.
Now that I know what the problem is, what do I do? The good news is mold mites are no more harmful to your health than the mold they feed on, and do not bite. However they can trigger symptoms similar to allergies if a colony is established and not taken care of quickly. The mold mites are white or tan, and are covered in tiny hairs that can become airborne and cause respiratory irritation, such as coughing, sneezing, and sore throat.
Start by getting rid of any small patches of mold in the house. Without food, the mites cannot survive. Clean any areas of mold and the mites will be cleaned away with them. Larger clusters of mold may require professional removal, and treatment for the mites. For especially large or difficult infestations, as was the case for the client mentioned, call the pro’s at Precision Pest Solutions for help.
Don’t wait for your house to be overrun with mites! Call today at 937-772-7758!
Reference:
Unknown Author, “What Are Mold Mites & How to Get Rid of Them”, Affordable Remediation & Emergency Services, Mold Removal, Remediation & Biohazard Experts Servicing, No Date