Springtails are detritivores that are common in moist environments, such as leaves and mulch. They feed on decaying leaves and plant material and are not harmful to trees and other plants or usually considered pests outdoors (in rare instances, springtail populations can build up to such high levels that they can damage seedlings and young plants).

While springtails are normally found on the ground and under protection such as leaves, they can migrate into buildings when conditions become unfavorable, such as when soil becomes inundated during/after heavy rains or when it dries out during periods of drought. In such instances, the best solution is to seal cracks and crevices in the foundation and around pipes and wires using calk or expanding foam to keep the springtails from entering the building in the first place. You might also install brushes along the bottoms of doors. It may also help to eliminate springtail habitat from the vicinity around buildings. This might include trimming bushes to increase airflow (and encourage drying), replacing mulch around the foundation with stone or river rocks, or installing drains around the house to remove surface water.

Sprintails can become pestiferous in buildings that have moisture issues, particularly in bathrooms, under sinks, and in other damp areas. The best control in these instances is to install a dehumidifier and/or fix leaky pipes to eliminate sources of moisture.

Springtails do not bite or cause any kind of medical issue. They're just nuisance pests because of their presence.

For more information, please see this PSU springtail fact sheet