Bugs (Mites?) Living In Wooden Porch Railing

They do not appear to jump.

I want to get rid of them because I lean on that railing when I'm on my porch and they end up on my arm. Also, I don't want them invading my home, though I dont know of any mold in my home I didn't think my deck had mold either.

I'll see if I can find a magnifying glass.

Springtails are very susceptible to dessication, so drying out the wood will send them into hiding. If you can't dry out the wood, then springtails may not be the worst of your problems...

As far as "home invasion", indoor conditions are usually too dry for them, though you might see them around sinks and showers, etc. I'm sure you already have them in whatever areas are suitable for them, but haven't noticed.

It's been estimated that there are more springtails on earth than any other non-microscopic animal. You probably have thousands- if not millions- in the soil near your house. There are only a couple of species that have been found to have any detectable effect at all on humans or their crops, and they're not present here.

The only problem springtails pose is an aesthetic one, solely based on how you feel about them. Given the huge numbers of organisms that live in the air we breathe, on our skin, and in our gut without our knowledge every day, a few barely noticeable ones should be no cause for concern.

Thanks for the information. I didn't think they were 'harmful' due to the fact that they don't appear to be consuming the wood. And you are right, the only reason I want to get rid of them is due to aesthetic reasons. I know bugs exist, but out of sight - out of mind works better.