1. What You Need to Know About Centipedes
Centipedes are creepy crawlers that love dark, damp places like basements, bathrooms, and closets. They feed on other pests like spiders and ants, which means their presence could be a sign of an underlying pest problem. While their bite is rare and harmless to most people, just seeing one can be enough to make your skin crawl.
2. Find Their Hiding Spots
Start by figuring out where they’re hanging out. Centipedes tend to hide:
- In damp areas like under sinks, near leaky pipes, or in basements.
- Behind boxes, in closets, or other cluttered spaces.
Turn on a flashlight and check these spots.
3. Stop Them Before They Start
A few simple changes around the house can go a long way:
- Control Moisture: Fix any leaks, use a dehumidifier in damp areas, and make sure bathrooms and basements are well-ventilated.
- Seal Gaps: Use caulk to close up cracks in windows, doors, and walls where centipedes might sneak in.
- Declutter: Toss out old cardboard boxes, piles of laundry, and stacks of newspapers where centipedes might hide.
4. How to Get Rid of Centipedes
a. Natural Methods
- Sticky Traps: Place traps in areas where you’ve seen centipedes to catch them.
- Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle this natural powder in cracks and along walls to kill centipedes by dehydrating them.
- Vacuum Them Up: If you spot one, grab the vacuum cleaner and suck it up—problem solved!
b. Chemical Solutions
- Insect Sprays: Look for sprays designed for centipedes and use them in corners, along baseboards, and other problem areas.
- Perimeter Treatments: Apply a long-lasting insecticide around the outside of your home to keep centipedes from coming in.
c. Call in the Pros
If the centipedes keep showing up despite your efforts, it might be time to call a professional pest control service. They’ll know exactly how to handle the problem.
5. Keep Them From Coming Back
- Regularly check for leaks or damp areas and fix them right away.
- Keep your home clean and dry, especially in places where centipedes like to hide.
- Use traps or insecticides occasionally as a preventative measure.
No one wants to share their home with centipedes, but you don’t have to put up with them. Whether you go the natural route or call in an expert, you can reclaim your home and enjoy peace of mind.
Need recommendations for specific products or professionals? Let me know, and I’ll be happy to help
