Expert: Jack DeAngelis - 7/19/2009

Question
Hello, I am hoping you can help me identify and hopefully get rid of a problem with tiny yellow bugs in my flat.  They are about the size of a pin head - they are so small I can't see any feet or other features.  They are a large number of them and as first I thought it was some dirt or crumbs but then I noticed them moving.  Well they have taken a particular liking to my shoes!!! Whether leather, suede or fabric they are there! I have quite a lot of shoes and they are crawling with them - I've tried cleaning them and the boxes I keep them in but I can't find a source and they just come back! Is there any hope of ridding them or am I just going to have to dispose of my shoes collection?!?!  =(

I know this may not be your usual type of question but any help would be very much appreciated! Oh I'm actually located in Scotland - don't know if that's relevant.

Thanks again,
Sacha

Answer
Sacha,

This sounds like some type of mite based on the size and number you describe. The only mite that matches your description that also occurs commonly in homes is the grain mite, also called the mold mite. Grain mites feed on fungi (mold) that grows on damp surfaces, they are pests in warehouses where grain is stored. They also get into houses. They are generally harmless but may indicate a moisture/mold problem.

My guess is they are not really associated with your shoes but rather something nearby is moldy and the mites are spreading to where the shoes are stored (unless your shoes are moldy). Try moving the shoes to someplace that you know is dry and I'd bet the mites will go away. The solution is to locate whatever it is that's damp and moldy and fix the moisture problem and the mites will die off.

I hope this is useful.

Jack DeAngelis, PhD
Extension Entomologist (ret.)
My website about home and garden pests: http://www.livingwithbugs.com