Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How can I get Rid of Centipedes?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Centipedes are often unwelcome guests in a person's home. The mostly likely species to be found indoors is the Scutigera coleoptrata, and this house centipede can complete its entire life cycle indoors, including breeding. Some people describe these bugs as beneficial, as they eat insects, including spiders, cockroaches, termites, and flies. However, most people find them creepy to look at and wish to find the most expedient way to get rid of them.

To get rid of centipedes, remove all debris from around your home. If you have wood or leaf piles that sit close to your home, move them away to remove cool sheltering spots that centipedes may choose to hide under during the day. Likewise, it's wise to move trash cans away from the side of your home. Next, seal up any cracks or holes through which these critters can crawl, making it more difficult for them to invade your home in the first place.

Centipedes eat cockroaches.
Centipedes eat cockroaches.

Once you've removed hiding places from around the outside of your home, it's time to go inside and get rid of the centipedes that have already invaded. Typically, centipedes take up residence in bathrooms and basements, as they need a damp place in which to dwell. Place dehumidifiers in these damp locations to discourage these pests. It's also helpful to run air conditioners and sprinkle baking soda when you vacuum rugs, which may help to remove excess moisture from the air. If the environment is dry enough, centipedes will die without any additional effort on the homeowner's part.

Sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming rugs can help keep out centipedes.
Sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming rugs can help keep out centipedes.

Spray insecticides that contain permethrin are useful when you want to get rid of centipedes. In fact, most spray insecticides, including those labeled for ants and roaches, are capable of doing the job. However, if you happen to see one when you are unarmed with insecticide, you may simply squash it under your shoe, hit it with a heavy book, or trap it in a jar and release it outside your home.

During the day, centipedes hide in the debris around the home.
During the day, centipedes hide in the debris around the home.

For those concerned about spraying insecticides, there are less toxic ways to get rid of centipedes. Sticky traps that are usually used for ants and roaches work just as well for centipedes. Place them around walls, doorways and windows. Centipedes will become stuck to the traps and die of starvation. This type of trapping may provide an added benefit, allowing you to trap other bugs and see what prey is making your home so attractive to these pests.

Insecticide may be useful for eradicating centipedes.
Insecticide may be useful for eradicating centipedes.

Boric acid and diatomaceous earth are natural pesticides that can be used to get rid of centipedes. These powdered insecticides can be sprinkled in corners and around the edges of floors as well as near cracks that you may have difficulty sealing. When a centipede crawls over either of these powdered substances, tiny scratches will form on its body, causing it to dehydrate and die. Keep in mind, however, that though these substances are considered non-toxic, they can cause irritation to the mucous membranes and lungs. As such, it is best to wear a protective mask during application and wash your hands once you're done.

Frequently Asked Questions

What attracts centipedes to my home?

Most spray insecticides are capable of getting rid of centipedes.
Most spray insecticides are capable of getting rid of centipedes.

Centipedes are drawn to moist environments with plenty of hiding spots. They often enter homes in search of water and prey like insects. Reducing humidity with dehumidifiers, fixing leaks, and sealing entry points can make your home less inviting to these arthropods. Regular cleaning also removes the food sources that attract them.

Are centipedes dangerous to humans or pets?

While centipedes can bite, they rarely do so, and their venom is not lethal to humans. The bite may cause discomfort, redness, or swelling, similar to a bee sting. For pets, the risk is also low, but it's best to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has been bitten, as individual reactions can vary.

How can I naturally deter centipedes from my living spaces?

Natural deterrents for centipedes include essential oils like peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus. Applying these oils around entry points can repel centipedes. Additionally, keeping your home dry, well-ventilated, and free of clutter reduces the habitat centipedes seek. Predatory insects like house centipedes can also naturally control the population.

What are the most effective methods to eliminate centipedes?

Effective elimination methods for centipedes include reducing moisture through dehumidifiers, repairing leaks, and ensuring proper drainage around your home. Sticky traps can catch wandering centipedes, and chemical treatments like insecticides can be used in more severe cases. However, chemical use should be a last resort due to potential risks to humans and pets.

Can I prevent centipedes from coming back after removal?

Preventing centipedes from returning involves creating an environment that's inhospitable to them. This includes sealing cracks and crevices, installing door sweeps, maintaining a dry and clean home, and removing leaf litter and woodpiles near your home's foundation. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of moisture issues are also crucial.

Is it necessary to hire a professional to get rid of centipedes?

Hiring a professional may not be necessary for a small number of centipedes, but it can be beneficial for large infestations or recurring problems. Professionals can identify the species, locate the source of the issue, and provide a targeted treatment plan. They can also offer advice on long-term prevention strategies.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a AllThingsNature writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a AllThingsNature writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon90942

is Boric Acid nontoxic to pets as well?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Centipedes eat cockroaches.
      By: gosphotodesign
      Centipedes eat cockroaches.
    • Sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming rugs can help keep out centipedes.
      By: Vidady
      Sprinkling baking soda before vacuuming rugs can help keep out centipedes.
    • During the day, centipedes hide in the debris around the home.
      By: evegenesis
      During the day, centipedes hide in the debris around the home.
    • Insecticide may be useful for eradicating centipedes.
      By: perfectmatch
      Insecticide may be useful for eradicating centipedes.
    • Most spray insecticides are capable of getting rid of centipedes.
      By: Tan Kian Khoon
      Most spray insecticides are capable of getting rid of centipedes.