House centipedes are one of the most common household pests, and they can be quite a nuisance. These long, flat, and segmented creatures might look frightening, but they are generally harmless to humans. However, their presence can indicate a larger issue, such as a moisture problem or an infestation of other pests. If you’re looking for ways to get rid of house centipedes, you’re in the right place. Here are 12+ house centipede solutions that work, along with some valuable insights into these creatures and how to prevent them from taking over your home.
Understanding House Centipedes
Before we dive into the solutions, it’s essential to understand what house centipedes are and what they want. House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are arthropods that belong to the class Chilopoda. They have a distinctive appearance, with a long, flattened body, 15 pairs of legs, and a pair of modified legs that resemble pincers. These creatures are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, and they feed on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods.
House centipedes are attracted to moisture, warmth, and food sources. They can enter your home through cracks and crevices, vents, and pipes, and they can also be introduced through infested plants, boxes, or other items. Once inside, they can thrive in humid environments, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Solution 1: Eliminate Standing Water and Moisture
One of the most effective ways to get rid of house centipedes is to eliminate standing water and moisture from your home. Check for any water leaks, fix them, and ensure that your home is well-ventilated. Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity levels, especially in areas where centipedes are most active.
Solution 2: Seal All Entry Points
House centipedes can squeeze through tiny cracks and crevices, so it’s crucial to seal all entry points to prevent them from entering your home. Use caulk or sealant to fill gaps around windows, doors, vents, and pipes. Install door sweeps or weatherstripping to seal any gaps under doors.
Solution 3: Clean and Declutter
Keeping your home clean and clutter-free can help reduce the attractiveness of your home to house centipedes. Regularly vacuum and dust, especially in areas where centipedes are most active. Remove any clutter, boxes, or storage containers that can provide hiding places for centipedes.
Solution 4: Remove Food Sources
House centipedes feed on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods. Removing their food sources can help reduce their population. Use traps or insecticides to control other pest populations, and keep your home clean and free of debris.
Solution 5: Use Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non-toxic powder that can be used to repel and kill house centipedes. Sprinkle the powder along baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and in areas where centipedes are most active.
| Product | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Diatomaceous Earth Powder | Natural, non-toxic powder for repelling and killing house centipedes | $10-$20 |
| Centipede Trap | Sticky trap for capturing and removing house centipedes | $5-$10 |
Solution 6: Use Essential Oils
Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, lemongrass, and tea tree oil, can repel house centipedes. Mix a few drops of the oil with water and spray it along baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and in areas where centipedes are most active.
Solution 7: Install a Dehumidifier
Installing a dehumidifier can help reduce the humidity levels in your home, making it less appealing to house centipedes. Place the dehumidifier in areas where centipedes are most active, such as basements or bathrooms.
Solution 8: Use Insecticides
Insecticides can be used to kill house centipedes, but they should be used as a last resort. Always follow the instructions on the label, and use insecticides in areas where centipedes are most active.
Solution 9: Call a Professional
If the infestation is severe or you’re not comfortable dealing with house centipedes, consider calling a professional pest control service. They can help identify the source of the problem and provide effective solutions to eliminate the centipedes.
Solution 10: Use Baking Soda and Sugar
A mixture of baking soda and sugar can be used to trap and kill house centipedes. Place the mixture in areas where centipedes are most active, and replace it regularly.
Solution 11: Use Vinegar and Water
A mixture of vinegar and water can be used to repel house centipedes. Spray the mixture along baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and in areas where centipedes are most active.
Solution 12: Use Centipede-Repellent Plants
Certain plants, such as lavender, mint, and basil, can repel house centipedes. Place these plants in areas where centipedes are most active, or use their essential oils to repel centipedes.
FAQ Section
What do house centipedes eat?
+House centipedes feed on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods.
How do house centipedes enter my home?
+House centipedes can enter your home through cracks and crevices, vents, and pipes, and they can also be introduced through infested plants, boxes, or other items.
Are house centipedes poisonous?
+House centipedes are not poisonous to humans, but they can bite if threatened or handled carelessly.
By following these 12+ house centipede solutions, you can reduce the attractiveness of your home to these pests and prevent infestations. Remember to always keep your home clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and use natural repellents to keep house centipedes at bay.
