How to Get Rid of Centipedes & Millipedes in Your Home

Centipedes and Millipedes Crawling Through Your Home? Here’s How to Stop Them!

Are Centipedes and Millipedes Crawling Through Your Home? Here’s How to Stop Them

You're sitting at home, and all of a sudden, a long, multi-legged bug crawls across the floor. It's a creepy sight, and you might wonder how these bugs ended up in your home. If centipedes and millipedes continue to show up in your home, you're not alone. Most homeowners struggle with these creepy crawlers, but the good news is that centipede control is very possible. By knowing what draws them in and using the proper prevention methods, you can keep them out of your home forever.

Centipede Control- Why Are Centipedes and Millipedes Entering Your Home?

Before you can prevent an infestation, you must know why these bugs are in your home in the first place. Both centipedes and millipedes love damp, dark places. If your home offers the right conditions, they'll find their way in. Here are some of the most common reasons why these bugs invade homes:

1. Seeking Shelter from Extreme Weather

Centipedes and millipedes are extremely sensitive to their surroundings. In dry times, millipedes are looking for moisture, and during heavy rainfall, they're looking for drier shelter. Basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms tend to offer the perfect environment for them.

2. High Humidity Levels

Moisture is a strong attractant. If your house is damp, it is a great breeding ground for millipedes and centipedes. Basements, laundry rooms, and behind sinks are sure to have the ideal amount of damp to nurture them.

3. Presence of Other Insects

Centipedes are carnivorous. If you have other insects in your house, including cockroaches, ants, or spiders, centipedes will be right behind them. A hidden pest infestation may be why you are seeing these multi-legged unwanted visitors all the time.

4. Entry Through Cracks and Openings

Small cracks in your foundation, gaps in windows, and open vents are entry points. These pests do not require a big opening to enter. Sealing these openings can go a long way in avoiding an infestation.

Differences Between Centipedes and Millipedes

Although they look similar, centipedes and millipedes have distinct characteristics. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the best removal strategy.

Centipedes

  • Fast-moving predators that feed on insects.
  • Have one pair of legs per body segment.
  • Prefer damp, dark places like basements and bathrooms.
  • Can bite, though it’s not harmful to humans (similar to a mild bee sting).

Millipedes

  • Slower-moving and feed on decaying plant material.
  • Have two pairs of legs per body segment.
  • Tend to curl up when disturbed.
  • Do not bite but can release a defensive fluid that may cause mild skin irritation.

How to Stop Centipedes and Millipedes from Entering Your Home

If you’re tired of finding these pests crawling around, here are effective ways to get rid of them:

1. Reduce Moisture in Your Home

Since centipedes and millipedes are attracted to damp areas, controlling moisture is crucial.

  • Use a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces.
  • Fix any leaky pipes or dripping faucets.
  • Improve ventilation in bathrooms and laundry rooms.

2. Seal Cracks and Openings

These pests enter through the smallest cracks.

  • Inspect your home’s foundation and seal any openings.
  • Use weatherstripping around doors and windows.
  • Install fine mesh screens on vents and drains.

3. Clear Out Clutter

Clutter provides hiding spots. Reducing unnecessary storage can make your home less inviting to pests.

  • Keep basements and storage areas tidy.
  • Store firewood away from the foundation.
  • Remove excess mulch, leaves, and debris near your home.

4. Control Other Pest Infestations

Since centipedes feed on insects, eliminating their food source will make your home less attractive to them.

  • Schedule regular pest infestation inspections.
  • Keep your kitchen and dining area free of crumbs.
  • Use professional pest control treatments for long-term results.

5. Professional Centipede and Millipede Removal

If you’ve tried everything and still see these pests, it’s time to call in the experts. A centipede control service ensures that your home remains pest-free. Professionals use targeted treatments that work better than DIY methods.

Why Choose Terminix of El Paso for Centipede and Millipede Control?

At Terminix of El Paso, we know that centipedes and millipedes are alarming. Our centipede control service is built to solve the issue effectively. Here's why homeowners choose us:

  • Detailed Inspections: We find out the underlying reason for infestations.
  • Focused Treatments: Our pest control solutions target the current pests and deter future ones.
  • Eco-Friendly Treatments: Secure for kids and pets yet very effective.
  • Trained Experts: Our professionals have a deep understanding of centipede and millipede behavior.

Final Thoughts: Take Action Today!

If centipedes and millipedes are roaming through your home, don't let the issue escalate. The secret to effective centipede control lies in early intervention. By being proactive and engaging with professionals, you can have a pest-free home.

Call Terminix of El Paso today to book an inspection and bid farewell to centipedes and millipedes forever!