Can Grain Mites Live on Clothes?
Grain mites, sometimes called flour mites, are small pests that can be found in stored grain, flour, dried fruits, cheese and more. But did you know that grain mites can also live on clothes?
What Are Grain Mites?
Grain mites are from the family Acaridae and are related to ticks and spiders. They measure between 0.2 and 0.3 mm and have a white/yellow color.
How Do Grain Mites Get on Clothes?
Grain mites can easily spread from one place to another via air currents. They can also be transferred from one type of material to another, such as from clothes to grain products.
Can They Survive on Clothes?
Yes, grain mites can survive on clothes. They feed on organic matter such as food stains and skin flakes, so if there are organic materials on your clothes they will be able to feed and survive.
How to Get Rid of Grain Mites on Clothes?
Grain mites can be difficult to get rid of, but here are some tips to help you:
- Wash all clothes. Wash all clothes in hot water (60°C or higher) to kill the grain mites. Be sure to use an appropriate detergent, as some detergents can trigger mite allergies.
- Dry clean clothes. Dry-cleaning is an effective way to kill the mites, as the high temperatures will kill them.
- Seal clothes in plastic bags. Sealing your clothes in plastic bags for several days and then washing or dry-cleaning them can kill the grain mites.
Conclusion
Grain mites can live on clothes, but they can be removed with proper cleaning and storage methods. It is important to be aware of grain mites, as they can cause allergies and other health problems.