These very tiny, pale yellow to brown insects live in humid places like bathrooms and kitchens. Sometimes they can be found in other locations in the house. Most psocids feed on mold and mildew that you can’t see. Some are found in or near stored food materials. However, some psocids are associated with cereals and in quite dry kitchen cabinets.

Solving a psocid problem usually starts with solving the moisture or humidity. This will eliminate the mildew that the psocids eat. Many times there is a plumbing leak or clogged drain. In the bathroom you can check the sink drain for leaks. Check the tub trap too—there is often a trap door in a wall near the front of the tub.

In the kitchen, check the pipes under the sink for leaks. If there is moisture, be sure to dry the cabinet thoroughly before replacing everything that is stored there.