Springtails in House: How to Get Rid of Them and Keep Them Away
What Are Springtails?
Springtails are very small insects, usually less than 1–2 mm long. They get their name from the “spring” mechanism (called furcula) on their abdomen, which allows them to jump when disturbed. They are not dangerous to humans, but they appear in large numbers and can be a nuisance.
They feed on mold, fungi, algae, and decaying plant matter. This makes them common in damp places like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and overwatered gardens.
Why Do Springtails Come Into the House?
Springtails invade homes when there is too much moisture. Common attractants include:
-
Leaky pipes and sinks
-
Wet bathroom floors and tiles
-
Damp basements or crawl spaces
-
Potted plants with soggy soil
-
Poor ventilation around windows or walls
Are Springtails Harmful?
Springtails do not bite, sting, or spread diseases. However:
-
Large infestations can cause discomfort.
-
They may damage young seedlings in greenhouses or gardens.
-
Their presence usually signals a moisture problem that could lead to mold or structural issues.
How to Get Rid of Springtails in the House
If you see tiny jumping bugs around sinks, tubs, or walls, here are the most effective methods:
-
Reduce Moisture – Fix leaks, improve ventilation, and use a dehumidifier in damp rooms.
-
Dry Out Potted Plants – Avoid overwatering indoor plants. Let the topsoil dry before watering again.
-
Clean Mold and Mildew – Use safe household cleaners to remove organic growth where springtails feed.
-
Vacuum Regularly – Remove visible springtails from floors, windowsills, or bathrooms.
-
Seal Entry Points – Repair cracks around windows, doors, and foundations to stop them from coming inside.
Homemade Springtail Killer Spray
A simple DIY option is a soapy water spray:
-
Mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle.
-
Spray directly on springtails in bathrooms, kitchens, or plants.
-
This kills them on contact but works best alongside moisture control.
Springtails in Soil and Gardens
Springtails in the garden are usually harmless, even beneficial, because they help decompose organic matter. But if populations get too high:
-
Reduce watering frequency.
-
Improve soil drainage.
-
Add mulch carefully, avoiding thick wet layers.
Long-Tail Answers for Searchers
How to get rid of springtails in bathroom
-
Ventilate daily, wipe off wet surfaces, and use fans or dehumidifiers.
-
Apply soapy water spray directly on tiles and cracks.
How to get rid of springtails in soil
-
Let soil dry out between waterings.
-
Repot plants if the soil stays constantly wet.
-
Add perlite or sand for better drainage.
Are springtails in garden good or bad?
-
Good: They recycle organic matter and improve soil health.
-
Bad: In very high numbers, they may chew on tender seedlings.
How to kill springtails instantly
-
Soapy water or vinegar sprays kill them on contact.
-
For large indoor infestations, residual insecticides can be applied by licensed professionals.
When to Call a Professional
If springtails keep coming back even after fixing moisture, it may indicate hidden leaks or large infestations. A licensed pest control technician can:
-
Apply professional-grade products safely.
-
Inspect hidden areas for leaks, mold, and entry points.
-
Provide long-term prevention strategies.
Sources
-
University of Minnesota Extension. What is springtails
-
Penn State Extension. Everything about springtails.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Pest control laws and approved chemicals vary by country. For best results and legal safety, we strongly recommend contacting a licensed pest control professional in your local area. Always make sure that the pest control technician is properly certified or licensed, depending on your country’s regulations. It’s important to confirm that they only use approved products and apply them exactly as instructed on the product label. In most places in Europe, UK, or USA, following label directions is not just best practice—it’s the law.
Discover more pest control guides on our main blog
Author:
Nasos Iliopoulos,
MSc Agronomist & Certified Pest Control Expert
Scientific Director, Advance Services (Athens, Greece)
Licensed Pest Control Business – Ministry of Rural Development & Food (GR)