What Are Mold Mites? Understanding and Eliminating These Hidden Pests
Mold mites are tiny, often invisible insects that can infest your home or business when mold is present. These microscopic creatures thrive in humid environments where mold spores provide a constant food source. While they’re not as well-known as other household pests, mold mites can cause significant discomfort and indicate underlying moisture or mold problems that need immediate attention.
In New Mexico and West Texas, where monsoon season and occasional flooding can create ideal conditions for mold growth, homeowners and property managers must stay vigilant. At American Restoration Water and Fire LLC, we help you understand what mold mites are, why they’re a problem, and how you can eliminate them for good.
What Exactly Are Mold Mites?
Mold mites (also known as Tyrophagus putrescentiae) are part of the same family as dust mites and spider mites. These tiny arthropods are barely visible to the naked eye—usually around 0.3 millimeters long—and are typically white or tan in color. Despite their size, mold mites can multiply quickly in the right environment, leading to a significant infestation if not addressed early.
They feed exclusively on mold and fungal spores, so their presence is a clear sign of an ongoing mold issue. They do not bite humans or pets, but they can still cause discomfort and health concerns through airborne particles such as shed skin and waste parasites.
Where Do Mold Mites Live?
Because mold mites feed on mold, they tend to live wherever moisture accumulates and mold is present. Common hiding spots for mold mites include:
- Bathrooms, especially around showers or bathtubs
- Under sinks with leaking plumbing
- In kitchens with poor ventilation
- Damp basements or crawlspaces
- Around windows with condensation
- Inside HVAC systems and ductwork
- Behind wallpaper or drywall where moisture is trapped
In homes or buildings that have experienced water damage or high humidity, mold mites can appear within just a few days. Unfortunately, because they are so small, many people don’t realize they have an infestation until they begin experiencing symptoms.
Health Risks Associated With Mold Mites
Although mold mites do not directly harm humans like bed bugs or lice, they can still have an indirect impact on your health—especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems. Exposure to mold mites often causes:
- Sneezing and nasal congestion
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Skin irritation or rashes
- Worsening asthma symptoms
- Coughing or shortness of breath
The airborne particles released by mold mites (especially their shed skin and fecal matter) can act as allergens and irritants. If you or your family members are experiencing unexplained allergy symptoms indoors, mold mites could be part of the problem.
How to Get Rid of Mold Mites
The key to eliminating mold mites is removing the mold they depend on for survival. Here’s a step-by-step strategy to eliminate mold mites effectively:
- Identify the Source of Moisture
Inspect your home for leaks, high humidity, or water damage. Pay special attention to:
- Roofs, especially after storms
- Plumbing under sinks and behind walls
- Window seals and basements
- Air conditioning and HVAC systems
Use a moisture meter or call a professional to identify hidden moisture behind walls or under flooring.
- Remove the Mold
This is where professional remediation is critical. At American Restoration, our mold removal process involves:
- Containment to prevent mold spores from spreading
- HEPA filtration to clean the air
- Surface cleaning with antimicrobial agents
- Removal of damaged materials, such as drywall or insulation
- Drying and dehumidifying the area
DIY methods like bleach sprays are often ineffective and can even worsen the problem if the mold is inside porous materials.
- Clean and Vacuum Thoroughly
Once the mold is gone, the next step is a deep clean. When the American Restoration Water and Fire team has solved the origination of the problems, we thoroughly clean the area.
- Use HEPA-filter vacuums to remove dead mites and mold spores
- Wipe surfaces with anti-fungal solutions
- Clean upholstered furniture, rugs, and curtains
- Wash bedding and fabrics in hot water
Our ultrasonic cleaning process can remove mites and mold damage from even fragile items.
- Control Humidity
Mold mites can’t survive without mold, and mold can’t grow without moisture. Keep your indoor humidity below 50% using:
- Dehumidifiers in basements and crawlspaces
- Proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms
- Air conditioners with humidity controls
- Exhaust fans in high-moisture areas
Monitor indoor humidity with a hygrometer, which you can purchase at most hardware stores.
Professional Mold Mite Remediation Services in New Mexico and West Texas
At American Restoration Water and Fire LLC, we understand that mold and mold mite infestations are more than just a nuisance—they can disrupt your comfort, damage your property, and pose serious health risks. That’s why we offer comprehensive mold remediation services backed by years of experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and IICRC-certified technicians.
Our services include:
- 24/7 emergency response for water or mold damage
- Complete inspection and moisture detection
- Professional mold removal and air purification
- Safe and effective mold mite cleanup
- Reconstruction and restoration services
We serve homeowners and businesses across Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Clovis, Roswell, El Paso, and surrounding communities throughout New Mexico and West Texas.
Don’t Wait—Eliminate Mold Mites at the Source
If you suspect mold mites are infesting your home or business, the first step is identifying and removing the mold. Don’t rely on store-bought sprays or temporary fixes. Instead, contact the trusted experts at American Restoration Water and Fire LLC for a professional inspection and treatment plan tailored to your unique situation.
Call us now at 505-206-5277 to schedule your consultation. Let us help you reclaim a clean, healthy, and mold-free living space—starting today.
American Restoration Water and Fire LLC: Restoring Peace of Mind in Every Home and Business.
