How to Get Rid of Chicken Mites in Your Home

Chicken mites can and will invade your home if given the chance. Even if you have never owned a chicken, wild birds or your own pets can bring chicken mites into your home. Knowing where the mites come from is the key to eliminating the problem for good. There are many brands of insecticides on the market that work well against chicken mites. When used properly, these insecticides will help you rid your home of these tiny invaders.

Things You'll Need

  • 1 gallon premixed insecticide spray
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • 1 lb. bag of insecticide powder
  • Insecticide dip (Optional for dogs and cats)
  • Washing machine
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Instructions

  1. Getting at the Source

    • 1

      Identify the source of the chicken mite infestation in your home. By treating the source, you will prevent future infestations. If you keep chickens, treat your entire flock and the chicken housing area. All birds can be carriers of chicken mites. Your pets can carry them as well.

    • 2

      Treat your chicken flock or caged birds with insecticide powder. Dust the birds thoroughly with the powder. Sprinkle the insecticide powder over all nest boxes and roosting poles. Repeat this treatment once a month to prevent re-infestation.

    • 3

      Locate and remove any wild bird nests within 10 feet of your house. Mites can spread from the nests to your home. Treat all areas that have bird's nests with the insecticide powder.

    • 4

      Treat your indoor pets with an insecticide dip approved for your type of pet.

    Inside Your Home

    • 5

      Purchase one gallon of pre-mixed liquid insecticide spray. Sprays that contain 10 percent permethrin or five percent bifenthrin work well.

    • 6

      Cover or remove all fish tanks. Most insecticide is toxic to fish. Remove all indoor pets from the area you will be treating.

    • 7

      Wash all bedding, blankets and removable cushion slipcovers using the hot water cycle on your washing machine.

    • 8

      Treat the inside of your home with the spray. Mites will hide in carpet and furniture. Spray all carpeted areas and cloth furniture including couches, chairs, beds and all curtains and drapes. Spray the carpet and furniture until it is wet to the touch.

    • 9

      Allow the spray to dry on the carpet and furniture. This usually takes one to two hours. Thoroughly vacuum all treated carpet and furniture. Re-treat your house once a week until all signs of the chicken mite infestation are gone.