Introduction

Seeing a house centipede dart across your floor can be alarming, but you’re not alone. These fast, multi-legged arthropods are common in many households. This Centipede Control and Prevention Guide explains why centipedes invade homes, how to manage them effectively, and proven strategies for long-term prevention. By tackling the underlying causes—moisture, food sources, and entry points—you can reclaim your home and enjoy a pest-free environment.

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Understanding House Centipedes

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House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are long-legged, nocturnal predators that thrive in moist environments. While their appearance is unsettling, they actually feed on common pests like cockroaches, silverfish, and termites.

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Why Centipedes Invade Your Home

  • Moisture & Humidity: Basements, bathrooms, and crawl spaces attract centipedes.
  • Food Sources: They hunt pests such as spiders, termites, and cockroaches.
  • Seasonal Factors: Cooler autumn weather and midsummer droughts push them indoors.

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Comprehensive Strategies for Centipede Control and Prevention

1. Moisture Control

  • Fix plumbing leaks.
  • Use dehumidifiers in basements and crawl spaces.
  • Improve ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

2. Seal Entry Points

  • Caulk cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations.
  • Install door sweeps and window screens.
  • Replace foundation vent screens with 20-mesh barriers.

3. Natural Control Methods

  • Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Apply in cracks and dark corners.
  • Essential Oils: Peppermint, cedarwood, or eucalyptus sprays deter centipedes.
  • Vacuuming & Sticky Traps: Capture centipedes and their prey.

4. Chemical Treatment Options

  • Targeted boric acid in cracks and voids.
  • Perimeter sprays with pyrethroids (cyfluthrin, deltamethrin).
  • Always combine with moisture reduction for best results.

5. Professional Pest Control

If centipedes persist, a pest control expert can provide tailored treatments such as crawl space encapsulation, perimeter sprays, and long-term monitoring.

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Long-Term Prevention

  • Keep humidity below 50% indoors.
  • Remove outdoor clutter like mulch, leaf litter, and firewood.
  • Inspect your home each season for leaks and cracks.

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Conclusion

House centipedes may seem intimidating, but they don’t have to take over your home. With this Centipede Control and Prevention Guide, you now know how to reduce moisture, seal entry points, eliminate food sources, and use safe treatments to reclaim your living space. Consistent maintenance and proactive prevention will keep your home comfortable, healthy, and centipede-free.

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