Mites are a right pain in the mealworms – especially if things are a bit too damp. But don’t worry, here’s how to sort it, Wiggly-style.

Step 1: Cut the Moisture – Completely

First things first, stop adding wet food (no carrot, no spud, no apple) for at least a week.
Your mealworms will be just fine – they can cope without it for a bit.

Leave the lid off to help bring the humidity down.

Step 2: Wipe the Sides Daily

Mites like to crawl up the sides of the tub.
Each day, wipe the inside of the container with a damp cloth or bit of kitchen roll – chuck it away afterwards.
It’s boring, but it works.

Step 3: Add a Mite Trap

Pop a small shallow container of water (like a jam jar lid) inside the tray.
The mites will head for it and drown – lovely.
⚠️ Make sure your beetles and mealies can’t get in, or they’ll drown too.

Step 4: Smear on the Vaseline

Run a thin line of Vaseline (or petroleum jelly) around the inside rim of your tub.
That’ll stop mites climbing in or out – simple but effective.

Step 5: Clean Out the Substrate

If it’s a heavy infestation, you’ll need to:

• Sift out your worms, beetles, and pupae

• Bin the old bedding (you can freeze it first to kill off eggs)

• Replace it with fresh, clean bran or oats
  This gives them a clean start and clears a lot of the problem.

Step 6: Keep it Isolated

If you’ve got more than one tray, keep the affected one well away from the others.
And if you’re adding new worms or beetles, quarantine them first.

Wiggly Tips to Avoid Mites Next Time:

✔️ Only add a small slice of moist veg – and swap it daily
✔️ Clean out frass (droppings) regularly with a sieve
✔️ Keep your trays in a cool, dry, airy spot
✔️ Avoid overcrowding – give your mini livestock space to wriggle