How Do You Get Rid of Chiggers? Effective Tips to Protect Your Yard and Skin
If you’ve ever walked through tall grass and ended up covered in itchy, red welts, chances are you’ve had a run-in with chiggers. These nearly invisible pests can turn a day outside into a week of misery. Let’s break down what chiggers are, why they’re a problem, and how to get rid of them fast.
What Are Chiggers?
Chiggers are the larval stage of Trombiculidae mites, and while they’re microscopic in size, their bites pack a punch. You won’t see them crawling on your skin, but you’ll definitely feel the effects of their presence hours later.
These bright red or orange mites prefer warm, humid environments and are commonly found in:
- Overgrown grass
- Wooded trails
- Damp areas with dense vegetation
- Shaded gardens and unkempt lawns
Chiggers are most active from late spring through early fall, making them a major concern during summer.
Why You Want to Get Rid of Chiggers
Chigger bites are more than just annoying. These pests inject digestive enzymes into the skin, causing:
- Intense itching that can last for days or even weeks
- Clusters of red welts, often around the ankles, waistline, armpits, or behind the knees
- Disrupted sleep and discomfort, especially for children and pets
- Secondary skin infections if the bites are scratched open
If you spend a lot of time outdoors or have kids or pets playing in the yard, controlling chiggers is a must.
How to Identify a Chigger Problem
Chiggers are difficult to see, but their presence can be detected through the symptoms they cause. Here’s what to look for:
- Clusters of small, red bites, usually in tight areas where clothing fits snugly
- Persistent itching 6–12 hours after being outdoors
- Recent time spent in tall grass, overgrown shrubs, or brushy woods
Pro tip: Place a black piece of paper or cardboard in your yard and watch for tiny red specks moving across it—those could be chiggers.
How to Get Rid of Chiggers in Your Yard
Chigger infestations often start in your own backyard. To make your outdoor space a no-chigger zone, follow these steps:
1. Maintain Your Lawn
- Mow your grass regularly
- Remove tall weeds, brush piles, and leaf litter
- Trim back overgrown shrubs and plants
2. Eliminate Moisture
- Fix any drainage issues
- Clear clogged gutters and remove debris that holds water
3. Apply Targeted Insecticides
- Use products containing bifenthrin, permethrin, or cyfluthrin
- Apply in areas chiggers love—shady spots, lawn edges, around trees and shrubs
- Always follow label instructions for safety
4. Call a Pest Control Professional
If you’ve tried everything and are still getting bitten, a licensed pest control company can help with a customized treatment plan for your yard.
How to Get Rid of Chiggers on Skin and Clothing
Once you’ve been exposed, act fast to minimize the itch and remove any lingering mites:
1. Take a Hot Shower
- Use soap and water immediately after coming indoors
- Scrub well to remove any chiggers still on the skin
2. Wash Clothing in Hot Water
- Launder outdoor clothes right away
- Hot water and detergent will kill any chiggers hiding in fabric
3. Treat the Itch
- Apply calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream, or antihistamines
- Oatmeal baths can also soothe irritated skin
4. Don’t Scratch!
- Scratching increases your risk of skin infection
- Cover bites with a bandage if necessary
How to Prevent Chigger Bites in the Future
Prevention is key when it comes to these stealthy biters. Here’s how to stay protected:
1. Dress Smart
- Wear long sleeves and pants
- Tuck pants into socks or boots
- Choose light-colored clothing to spot bugs more easily
2. Use Insect Repellent
- Look for products with DEET, picaridin, or permethrin
- Treat clothing and shoes if hiking or working in dense vegetation
3. Avoid High-Risk Areas
- Stay on clear paths when hiking
- Avoid sitting directly on the grass or ground
4. Keep Your Yard Chigger-Free
- Regular mowing, trimming, and pesticide application go a long way
Contact the Local Pest Experts
Chiggers might be tiny, but they can create big problems for your skin, yard, and peace of mind. The good news is that with proper prevention, treatment, and pest control strategies, you can reclaim your outdoor space and enjoy the summer itch-free.
Need help getting rid of chiggers or other biting pests? Contact Sherrill Pest Control for expert residential and commercial pest solutions today!