How to Remove Chiggers

Chiggers are a larval form of a genus of mites called Trombiculidae, from the arachnid family. The little red creatures are barely visible, which makes them hard to detect and remove. You are most likely to detect chiggers from their bites, which begin as a red welt that becomes maddeningly itchy. The itchiness lasts for days, even weeks and usually starts at the ankles and spreads up the legs. Prevent chigger bites with thick clothing and mosquito repellent. Be sure to wash clothes when returning from long walks or hikes.

Things You'll Need

• Sulfur powder

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Instructions

• 1

  Remove chiggers by dusting affected areas with sulfur powder. Also referred to as flowers of sulfur and sublimed sulfur, sulfur powder is available from most pharmacies. Sulfur powder does not have a pleasant odor and may irritate the skin. Test a little on a small patch of skin before dusting yourself.

• 2

  Rid your garden of chiggers to enjoy outdoor activities by removing environments where they are likely to thrive. Remove overgrown brush and weeds, and keep your grass short. Humans are not the preferred prey of chiggers; they like small animals, reptiles and birds. It is best if you remove food and cover up nesting areas for these animals in your garden.

• 3

  Remove chiggers from the body by bathing or showering in warm soapy water. Chiggers are not attached to the skin and will come off when rubbed or washed. Rub yourself down with a damp towel if you are not able to bathe or shower.