How To Get Rid Of House Centipede

House Centipedes: How to Get Rid of Them

Are you constantly seeing house centipedes in your home? They’re creepy and crawly and their presence can be unsettling. But don’t worry, there are ways to get rid of them. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods you can use to eradicate these pests and keep them from coming back.

1. Understanding House Centipedes
Before we dive into the ways to eliminate house centipedes, it’s important to understand what they are and why they might be in your home. House centipedes are commonly found in homes in the United States and are known for their long, skinny legs and rapid movement. They’re typically grayish-brown in color and can grow up to 1.5 inches in length.

2. Why Do House Centipedes Enter Homes?
House centipedes are attracted to moisture and are often found in damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. They can also be found in closets, attics, and crawl spaces. If you have any leaks or standing water in your home, it could be attracting house centipedes.

3. Are House Centipedes Dangerous?
The good news is that house centipedes are not dangerous to humans. They don’t carry diseases and they won’t bite unless they feel threatened. However, their presence can still be unsettling and it’s understandable if you want to get rid of them.

4. Natural Remedies for Getting Rid of House Centipedes
If you prefer natural remedies, there are a few things you can try to get rid of house centipedes. Here are a few options:

– Peppermint Oil: House centipedes dislike the scent of peppermint oil. Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and spray it in areas where you’ve seen centipedes.
– Boric Acid: Boric acid is a natural insecticide that can be used to kill house centipedes. Sprinkle it in areas where you’ve seen centipedes.
– Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from fossilized diatoms. It works by dehydrating insects and can be effective against house centipedes. Sprinkle it in areas where you’ve seen centipedes.

5. Chemical Treatments for Getting Rid of House Centipedes
If natural remedies don’t work, you may need to use chemical treatments to get rid of house centipedes. Here are a few options:

– Insecticide Spray: There are many insecticide sprays available that are designed to kill house centipedes. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and wear protective gear.
– Dusts: Dusts like Delta Dust and Drione Dust can also be effective against house centipedes. Sprinkle the dusts in areas where you’ve seen centipedes.

6. Preventing House Centipedes
Once you’ve gotten rid of house centipedes, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are a few things you can do:

– Fix Leaks: Fix any leaks or standing water in your home. This will help eliminate moisture and prevent house centipedes from being attracted to your home.
– Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and free of clutter. This will make it harder for house centipedes to find hiding places.
– Sealing Cracks: Seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, and windows. This will help prevent house centipedes from entering your home.

7. House Centipede FAQs
Q: Can house centipedes bite?
A: Yes, house centipedes can bite if they feel threatened. However, their bites are not venomous and are not dangerous to humans.

Q: Are house centipedes nocturnal?
A: Yes, house centipedes are nocturnal and are most active at night.

Q: What do house centipedes eat?
A: House centipedes eat insects, spiders, and other small arthropods.

Q: How long do house centipedes live?
A: House centipedes can live up to two or three years.

8. The Bottom Line
Having house centipedes in your home can be unsettling, but there are ways to get rid of them. If natural remedies don’t work, chemical treatments can be effective. Prevention is key, so be sure to fix any leaks, keep your home clean, and seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s foundation, walls, and windows. With these tips, you can say goodbye to house centipedes for good.