Springtails are pests that come in huge numbers, which is why they are feared by many people. These creatures don't really do any harm, but can be quite bothersome when they appear in thousands. They are also known to withstand extremely cold temperatures, so can infest your home even in winter. You can't let these creepy crawlies take over your abode. Learning how to get rid of springtails is a must.
Springtails at a Glance
Springtails are found in damp and dusty areas, particularly the kitchen, behind the walls, bathrooms and other areas where moisture is prevalent. They feed on decaying matter, fungi and molds, all of which often found in the given areas. Since they don't breed inside homes, they are all bound to perish, but with their great number, you need more immediate solutions. Good thing many of them are available in your home and on the market.
Household Remedies
Springtails don't usually appear in dry and clean places, which you clearly have to maintain. Although, there are times, especially during summer, when the conditions are humid, so moisture becomes prevalent. An infestation becomes is quite possible, given the humidity. You must have ready solutions in this case. Here are some of them:
•Soap and Water - Washing with soap and water comes as the basic way to get rid or at least control springtails. The frothy mixture created by soap and water harms, not to mention drowns, torrents of springtails. The problem is, sometimes there are too many of them that a simple washing won't hold them off. Just apply this remedy when the pests don't appear in thousands.
•Vinegar - Vinegar, being a highly acidic liquid, will burn through the pests exteriors, making it a more efficient solution than soapy water. Given the sheer number of springtails, you may need to pour it three to four times for every torrent of pests that appear, which can be quite pricey.
•Bleach - Bleach is a slightly corrosive substance that can instantly kill springtails. Mix it with some water then flood the pests' source, which will probably eliminate hundreds, or even thousands.
•Improve Ventilation - Maintaining a cool temperature inside the house minimizes the appearance of moisture. Just leave your air-conditioner turned on when you're at home and apply insulation on the ceiling (Learn how to insulate a crawl space). The springtails will eventually switch locations, as they search for damper areas.
Each remedy works well against springtails, but if you are faced with a seemingly insurmountable number of them, better arm yourself insecticides.
Insecticides
Just like any bug, a springtail is killed in an instant upon applying insecticide. These chemical-based solutions, sprays, or granules are poisonous to insects. With just a few applications, you can massacre many of the springtails lurking around your house. Some insecticide types work better than others, depending on where they are applied, so having more than one type is advisable, especially when up against a colony.
•Bifen Granules - Bifen granules are potent and can be used indoors and outdoors, making them a pretty versatile solution. Their effect also lasts longer than most insecticides. Each granule emits fumes that are harmful to springtails, which is why a 25-pound bag is enough to cover two acres of land. Apply these babies around your property and your springtail problem will soon come to an end. Just keep your pets way from them since the granules are poisonous.
•Insect Spray - Insect sprays work best when applied on cracks, crevices and hard to reach places. The poisonous cloud emitted will take out any pest that it touches, including springtails. Make sure you wear a safety mask when applying. Long exposure to the gas may damage your respiratory system.
•Liquid Insecticide - Bifen granules work even better when partnered with liquid insecticide. Not only does liquid insecticide kill springtails instantly, it also increases the effects of the granules. Spread the granules around the springtail havens, preferably near the exit points. Once done, spray the insecticide onto where you placed the granules. If the springtails are hiding beneath an object, simply lift it up and exterminate everything that's moving.
•Insecticide Dust - Insecticide dust is highly corrosive, so you better wear safety gloves when handling it. Place a generous amount in a hand duster and blow the particles onto a springtail colony. Within minutes, the dust will eliminate them all. This solution is perfect for the smallest crevices.
•Fumigation - In extreme cases, in which the springtails number to over ten thousand, the only available solution is fumigation. Hire an exterminator to fumigate the area. The insecticide used contains powerful chemicals, which can eliminate all the pests in your home in just a few hours. It can damage your lungs, so you have to leave the premises while the exterminator is fumigating.
Insecticides deliver results, as set by their potent formulations. They are pretty effective , but can sometimes come with stiff prices. Just apply in conjunction with the household remedies to maximize the insecticide you're using. If you're interested in reading this article, might as well read how to get rid of gnats.