What Attracts Centipedes Indoors?

Skittery, slippery, and swift—centipedes might just be one of the most unsettling critters to spot in your home. If you have noticed one or two of these tiny arthropods inside, you know just how much they can disturb the peace. 

Tackling a centipede problem is a multi-step process. One of the most important steps? Understanding what attracts centipedes, so you can keep them out of your home. In this post, the pest exterminators at A-1 Pest Control will explore what attracts centipedes and offer practical tips to keep them at bay.

What Attracts Centipedes Inside?

 If you’ve suddenly noticed centipedes invading your space, it may be a result of one or more of the following factors:

Moisture and Humidity

Centipedes are attracted to damp environments. Excessive moisture, whether due to water leaks, high humidity, or inadequate ventilation, creates an ideal habitat for centipedes. To reduce attraction, address and fix any sources of excess moisture in and around your home. If not already, it's important to encapsulate your crawl space to reduce humidity and moisture which will in turn drastically reduce pest problems.

Dark and Sheltered Spaces

Centipedes seek shelter in dark and secluded spaces during the day. Cluttered areas, basements, crawl spaces, and unused items provide perfect hiding spots. Regularly declutter and clean these areas to eliminate potential hiding spots.

Pest Presence

Centipedes are predators, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small pests. A high population of that prey in and around your home can attract centipedes. Implementing effective pest control measures to manage the insect population can indirectly help deal with centipedes.

Mulch and Organic Debris

Mulch and organic debris around the foundation of your home create a cozy environment for centipedes, as they retain moisture and provide hiding places. Try to use only a thin layer of mulch, keep it away from the foundation, and regularly remove organic debris to discourage centipedes from settling in.

Entry Points

Centipedes can easily enter homes through small cracks and openings. Inspect and seal potential entry points, including gaps around doors and window seals, cracks in the foundation, and openings around utility penetrations. This not only prevents centipedes but also helps in keeping other pests out.

Exterior Lighting

Centipedes are nocturnal and are attracted to light, so bright exterior lights can draw them towards your home. Consider using yellow or sodium vapor lights, as these are less attractive to centipedes compared to standard white lights.

Temperature Fluctuations

Centipedes are sensitive to temperature changes. During extreme weather conditions, such as hot and dry periods or cold temperatures, they may seek shelter indoors. Ensuring proper insulation and temperature control in your home can help minimize the risk of infestation. 

What Attracts Centipedes: Getting Rid of Pests

If you don’t know what attracts centipedes, you might find yourself currently dealing with these unwanted guests in your home. At A-1 Pest Control, we use our years of experience to help you deal with insect inspections quickly, safely, and effectively. Before you reach out to the pest control pros, there are a few steps you can take to get a jump start on the problem.

Natural Repellents

Use natural repellents like peppermint oil, citrus peels, or cedar oil. Centipedes dislike these scents and may avoid areas treated with them.

Vacuuming

Vacuum up centipedes and their eggs using a hose attachment. Be sure to clean the vacuum or dispose of the bag promptly.

Insecticides

Apply insecticides in targeted areas, focusing on baseboards, cracks, and crevices where centipedes hide. Choose a product labeled for indoor use and follow the instructions carefully.

Sticky Traps

Place sticky traps along centipede pathways. These traps can capture centipedes and help decrease their activity.

Professional Pest Control

If the infestation persists, consider hiring a professional pest control service like A-1 Pest Control. We can provide inspections, targeted treatments, and year-round preventive measures.

Final Word: What Attracts Centipedes 

Spotting a centipede in your home is unnerving, but there’s no reason to panic. Not only are most of them harmless to humans, but they are also relatively easy to eradicate and keep out. If you’re dealing with centipedes in your home, A-1 Pest Control can help. Our main office is in Lenoir, North Carolina, but we also service Blowing Rock, Mooresville, Hickory, and West Jefferson. Contact A-1 Pest Control today at  828-481-9140 to schedule a FREE inspection, or fill out the contact form below.