Centipedes and millipedes are arthropods found worldwide, including the US. Natural predators, they eat bed bugs, cockroaches, termites, etc. Though centipedes rarely bother humans, some have terrible stings. In addition, it is always best to keep your precious abode pest and bug-free. In this blog, we will check out some natural centipede-repellent homemade remedies to keep centipede infestation at bay.
What Attracts Centipedes to Your Home?
Before examining some natural centipede-repellent remedies, let us first skim through the reasons why centipedes are harbored in your home.
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Dampness
Centipedes do not have a moisture-preserving cuticle. Rather, they are reliant on an external source of moisture to avoid drying out. They cannot hunt or even survive without moisture. Thus, if your home has damp spots, then this is probably why they’re gathering (much to your dislike!).
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Food
If centipedes have begun infesting your abode, it is very likely that they are looking for nourishment. If they find prey near and in your house, such as worms, spiders, and small insects, they might chase them.
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Shelter
Finally, centipedes also need shelter, which might be a major reason they are attracted to your home. Bags, boxes, and debris inside your house are the ideal spaces for this multi-legged creature to sneakily hide.
Now, let’s check out the best centipede-repellent remedies that you can prepare at home.
Best Homemade Centipede Repellents
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Homemade Centipede Repellent Spray with Tea Tree Oil
Their sensitive antennae give centipedes a remarkable sense of smell. With this in mind, 25 drops of tea tree oil in a bottle of water is a simple home anti-centipede cure. Then, shake up the liquid and spray the solution into crevices, cracks, doorways, windowsills, and entry points of your home. Centipedes, and many other pests, are repelled by the strong smell of tea tree oil.
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Reduce Indoor Air Humidity
As we have already mentioned, a home with damp spots and humid indoor air is a haven for centipedes. So, if your abode is damp due to any reasons such as plumbing leaks, install a dehumidifier and create a dry environment that is inhospitable to centipedes.
Read More: How to Get Rid of Mice – Find the Best Ways
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Use Boric Acid
Boric acid is an excellent eliminator of several types of pests. It works by damaging the digestive system and stomach of the insect that ingested it and then destroys the exoskeleton. A plastic squeeze bottle filled with boric acid can be used as centipede repellent at home. Squeeze the powder into gaps, crevices, etc.
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Remove Centipedes Using Diatomaceous Earth
DE is an organic powder that attacks insect exoskeletons as a mechanical pesticide. To fend off centipedes using DE, spread a layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth outside of your home and in areas that are frequented by these multi-legged beings.
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Cayenne Pepper
This centipede-repellent homemade remedy revolves around cayenne pepper, something that most of us have in the cupboard. Remember that this method should be your last resort, and it is best avoided if you have curious pets, as it can cause irritation if inhaled by animals. Apply a thin film of cayenne pepper near all entrance points to keep centipedes at bay, naturally.
With this, you now have the top five natural homemade centipede repellents. For further assistance, a dependable Sarasota rodent control service can help.
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