Why Millipedes Infest Homes
Millipedes prefer to spend their time outside. However, when the environment no longer suits their needs, they will migrate to a new location. Unfortunately, they often find their way into homes. Check out which conditions can lead to millipedes sneaking into houses.
Excess Rain
Millipedes need moisture to survive, but too much of a good thing can be bad. If there is an excessive amount of rain, their homes can flood. This is when they enter homes in search of shelter.
Lack of Moisture
If conditions become too dry, millipedes have no choice but to seek out sources of water. They will make their way inside and into damp areas of your home including basements, crawlspaces, and laundry rooms.
Cold Temperatures
While millipedes prefer a cool and damp environment, they don’t like when temperatures are too low. It’s common for millipedes to migrate inside when temperatures begin to drop, especially in the fall.
How Millipedes Get Inside Homes
Knowing how millipedes sneak into your home can help you prevent an infestation. We’ve made a list of common entry points.
Cracks & Crevices
Though millipedes can be long, they have a narrow body, which allows them to slip into small holes. Cracks in your foundation and walls provide easy access to your home.
Basement & Garage Doors
Basements are perfect for millipedes because they are damp and cool. If there’s a gap underneath your door, you can be sure millipedes will slip in. This is also true for any holes near garage doors.
Windows
Seals on windows weaken over time, and holes can form in screens. When this happens, millipedes can easily crawl into your home.
How to Prevent Millipedes
Preventing a pest infestation is always better than fighting one. Here are a few tips to help you keep millipedes out of your home.
Seal Cracks
Examine the interior and exterior of your home for any cracks or gaps. Sealing these can help ensure you don’t find any uninvited pests. You’ll also want to repair or replace damaged window screens and weather stripping.
Eliminate Moisture
Since millipedes need water to survive, you’ll want to take steps to eliminate excess moisture. Check your pipes and repair any that are leaking. You can also use a dehumidifier to prevent moisture build-up.
Yard Care
If millipedes are attracted to your yard, there’s a greater chance they will find their way into your home. Remove any yard debris that millipedes can eat or use as shelter.
Perimeter Treatment
Using a natural, botanical insecticide spray, like our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Yard Bug Spray, can help prevent a millipede problem. Not only does it kill pests on contact, it also provides you with residual repellency. Spraying the perimeter of your yard can create a barrier that will help keep pests out of your yard and home.
How to Get Rid of Millipedes
Check out what steps you can take to remove these creepy crawlies from your home.
Vacuum
Some millipedes can be removed with a vacuum. Make sure the bag is sealed tightly and then placed in a trashcan with a secure lid.
Spray Them Away
You can also use a natural, plant-based insecticide spray to eliminate an infestation. Our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective Home Bug Spray kills millipedes on contact and has repellent properties. Spraying common entry points can help to prevent other millipedes from entering your home.
Prevent Future Infestations
Once you’ve dealt with the infestation, you’ll want to make sure to take steps to pest-proof your house to avoid a future infestation.
Millipedes may think your home is the perfect vacation spot, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them stick around. If you’re dealing with a pest problem, we have your back! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective Pest Control products.