What do soil fleas feed on in the house and how to get rid of them? - briefly
In indoor environments soil fleas feed on mold, fungal spores, decaying organic material, and occasionally minute insects. To eradicate them, lower humidity, repair water sources, increase ventilation, and apply diatomaceous earth or a suitable insecticidal dust.
What do soil fleas feed on in the house and how to get rid of them? - in detail
Soil fleas, often called springtails, thrive in indoor environments where moisture and organic debris accumulate. Their primary diet consists of fungal spores, mold, decaying plant material, and microscopic algae that develop on damp surfaces such as bathroom tiles, kitchen countertops, and window sills. In addition, they may consume pollen, dust mites, and the thin films of bacteria that form on wet fabrics or upholstery. The presence of these food sources signals excessive humidity, which creates an optimal habitat for rapid population growth.
To eliminate an infestation, address both the nutritional supply and the moisture conditions that support it:
- Reduce humidity: Keep indoor relative humidity below 50 % by using dehumidifiers, improving ventilation, and repairing leaks in plumbing or roofing.
- Eliminate organic residues: Regularly clean surfaces with a mild detergent; scrub tile grout, remove moldy wallpaper, and vacuum carpets to discard accumulated dust and dead plant matter.
- Dry wet areas promptly: After showers, cooking, or spills, wipe down surfaces and ensure floors dry within an hour. Use absorbent mats in areas prone to moisture.
- Seal entry points: Apply caulk around windows, baseboards, and door frames to prevent soil fleas from entering from the surrounding ground.
- Treat affected zones: Apply a targeted insecticide labeled for springtails, focusing on cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture. Follow label instructions to avoid over‑application.
- Monitor and repeat: Conduct weekly inspections for signs of activity—tiny, jumping insects or white, thread‑like droppings—and repeat cleaning and drying procedures until sightings cease.
By systematically removing the fungal and decaying substrates they rely on and maintaining a dry, well‑ventilated environment, the population can be suppressed and eventually eradicated. Continuous vigilance is essential, as re‑introduction can occur if moisture and organic debris reappear.