Understand & Eliminate Your Springtail Issues
Springtails (Collembola) are soil-dwelling insects that get their name from their unique ability to “spring” into the air using a tail-like structure called a furcula. The furcula of the Springtail remains “locked and loaded” until they receive stimulus causing the spring to decompress, launching the bug multiple inches into the air.
These moisture-loving insects that often go unnoticed until they show up in large numbers around kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and even potted plants. These pests are particularly common in areas with high humidity or where moisture issues exist, such as under sinks, near leaky pipes, and around foundation walls.
While springtails are not harmful to humans or pets, their presence is often a red flag indicating excess moisture or mold, which can lead to other pest infestations and property damage if not addressed. They can be extremely difficult to get rid of without professional help, as DIY methods often fail to eliminate the underlying cause.
At Total Pest Control, we don’t just eliminate springtails—we solve the root problem. Our treatment targets moisture zones where these pests thrive, and we help you identify conditions that may be attracting them in the first place. Plus, our service also prevents other moisture-loving pests like silverfish, centipedes, and fungus gnats from invading your space.
Why Are They in My House?
Springtails live and breed in soil or mulch with high moisture, but will leave those nesting sites when attracted by light. If you’re seeing them indoors, it could indicate:
- Leaky pipes or plumbing
- Poor drainage near the foundation
- Excess humidity in crawl spaces or basements
- Overwatered houseplants or standing water
They don’t bite, but their presence is unsightly and signals a larger problem—moisture and in the worst case scenario, mold.
How We Eliminate Springtails From Your Home
First, we begin by applying a moisture-resistant barrier around your entire property line to prevent springtails and other moisture-loving pests like silverfish, centipedes, and fungus gnats from migrating over from nearby areas.
Next, we treat the exterior base of your home, focusing on foundation walls, door thresholds, windowsills, and any shaded, damp zones where springtails commonly gather. These are high-risk areas for hidden moisture buildup and pest entry.
Once we move inside, we target key hotspots such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, under sinks, basements, and crawl spaces. We apply a non-repellent treatment designed to neutralize existing populations while addressing the conditions that brought them inside in the first place.
Are springtails harmful to humans or pets?
No, springtails are not dangerous. They don’t bite, sting, or transmit disease. However, their presence in large numbers often indicates underlying moisture problems that can lead to mold growth or attract more destructive pests.
Why do I have springtails in my house?
Springtails thrive in damp, humid environments. Common causes include leaky pipes, water-damaged wood, poor drainage around the foundation, or even overwatered houseplants. Their presence usually means there’s excess moisture that needs to be addressed.
When moisture is not readily available indoors, however you still find springtails. This is likely caused by springtails being attracted from a light source that is coming from inside your home, which will cause them to move towards it and away from their moist breeding site outdoors.
How can I get rid of springtails permanently?
The key is to remove the moisture and treat the infested areas. A Total Pest Professional can help here by targeting springtail hotspots and apply safe, effective treatments to areas that are prone for collecting moisture and harboring springtails.
Our focus when it comes to springtails is to first, disrupt the nesting zone and apply labeled chemical product to any and all areas that collect moisture or may collect moisture in the future.
Then, we apply a heavy preventative barrier around the base of your home ensuring and fleeing pests don’t make their way inside.
Can springtails infest my plants or soil?
Yes, springtails are often found in potted plants and garden soil, feeding on decaying organic matter. While they don’t harm plants directly, large populations may be a sign of overwatering or poor soil drainage.
Looking For Help With Springtails?
Can Springtails Damage Your Home?
Springtails don’t directly damage your home’s structure, but they’re often a warning sign of a deeper issue. Their presence signals high moisture levels, which can lead to wood rot, mold growth, and foundation problems over time.
If left unchecked, these moisture conditions can weaken structural materials and attract more destructive pests like termites and carpenter ants. Treating springtails without fixing the root cause (moisture) can result in recurring infestations and costly long-term damage.
