Enjoying a sunny day out on the patio while reading a book or having a refreshing drink is a great way to spend the afternoon. What more could someone need?
However, noticing tiny little specks moving around on your patio furniture can quickly put you on high alert. At first glance you may think they’re just small ants on the patio furniture –but, after closer inspection, you may recognize them as the infamous spider mites!
Although these spider mites can actually bite you, it’s typically nothing to freak out about.
Getting rid of spider mites is not that hard. You can try hosing them down, using insecticide, or other DIY methods.
In this article, we’ll look at all the information on how to get rid of those spider mites and how to prevent them from ever coming back.
What Are Spider Mites?
Spider mites are tiny eight-legged creatures that are related to ticks and spiders. They are so small that you might get them confused with dust particle.
Additionally, they come in hundreds of different colors and species and they feed on your garden plants. They can be yellow, green, red, or brown. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions.
The presence of webs in combination with small holes in leaves are tell-tale signs of spider mite presence. These webs help distinguish them from other small bugs or mites.
Although mites feast on plants, they can occasionally bite humans. These bites can cause irritation that may last for several days –so, it’s best to avoid trying to coexist with them on your furniture!
How To Get Rid of Spider Mites on Patio Furniture?
As annoying as those spider mites may be, they are often easy to get rid of. There are a few simple DIY home remedies that help you with that:
Hosing Down Your Patio Furniture
One of the simplest ways to get rid of spider mites on your patio furniture is using water. That’s because spider mites are too small and weak to handle even the least amount of water pressure.
All you need to do is grab your garden hose and spray down your patio furniture. Remember to get the water inside every crevice, especially if you have wicker furniture.
You can also use a power washer to wash your patio furniture. Along with the mites, the water pressure will get rid of dirt and other debris.
Vacuuming Your Patio Furniture
Vacuuming is a great way to clean the spider mites off your patio furniture. Just like your indoor furniture, your patio furniture should be vacuumed regularly.
Vacuuming is also effective for all kinds of insects. Not to mention how fast and easy it is, especially when using a chargeable handheld vacuum.
Make sure to not just vacuum the surfaces, but get to all the hidden places such as:
- Under the table and chairs
- Within the holes of the wicker
- Any slits or cracks
- Inside the furniture’s structure
- Between, under, and behind the cushions
- The umbrella and its mount
Using Insecticides
Spray your patio furniture with insecticidal soaps or oils. When using insecticides always read the instructions to ensure any residual will remain for contact.
Note that many ordinary bug sprays don’t have much effect on spider mites. So, make sure when using an insecticide that it works on spider mites. It should be mentioned on the label.
How To Keep Spider Mites Away from Patio Furniture?
Keeping spider mites away from patio furniture is as easy as getting rid of them. Try the following methods:
Clearing Plants off Your Patio
It helps a lot to remove all potted plants away from your patio furniture because it’s the primary source of food for spider mites.
Additionally, check your plant for spider mite infestation regularly and get them treated right away with a suitable insecticide.
Infected plants often have webs around them or small holes in the leaves.
Keeping nearby plants moist can also help reduce their presence, since they gravitate toward dry areas.
Covering Your Patio Furniture
Patio furniture covers don’t just protect your furniture from sun and rain, they also work as bug deterrents. That’s because they’re often made from vinyl or fabric.
Getting a custom-fitted set of covers that fully encloses the furniture pieces is a sure way to keep spider mites away.
Just make sure that you put and secure the covers correctly. Otherwise, you’ll be creating a safe place for bugs to nest in.
Setting Traps
This simple DIY method is a huge success when it comes to keeping spider mites away from your patio furniture.
All you need to do is wrap double-sided sticky tape around the base of the chairs and tables.
That’s because the only way spider mites reach your patio furniture is by climbing them from the ground up. Unless the plant pot is over the patio table.
Spider mites only lay their eggs on plants. So, your patio furniture is not a suitable place for them to lay their eggs on.
Final Takeaway
Spider mites shouldn’t be the reason you can’t enjoy sitting on your patio. Once you learn how to get rid of spider mites on patio furniture, nothing can get in your way.
Just make sure to try each method to know what works best for you and try the tips on how to keep those spider mites away.
Happy (Pest-Free) Lounging!
Husband and father of three (actually, four if you include the pool). I’m an avid DIY-er and weekend warrior that enjoys taking up new projects around the house to help us maximize leisure right at home. I enjoy researching and sharing various tips, tricks and knowledge to help others make their home an oasis.