How to Keep Centipedes Out of My Basement

Centipedes are elongated and flattened organisms, which are not technically insects because they have more than six legs. House centipedes are normally brown in color, around 1 inch in length and able to run rapidly. Most centipedes are harmless and will kill common pest insects like cockroaches. However, a large group of centipedes can be a disturbing sight in a basement, but simple preventative measures can be taken to keep them from entering a home.

Things You'll Need

  • Cleaning supplies
  • Insecticide
  • Dehumidifier
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate what is attracting centipedes into your basement. Centipedes enjoy cool, damp and dark places. In basements, they will be attracted to areas where moisture and other insects are present. They may be hard to locate at first, because they will hide in cracks, crevices and underneath materials during the day and will hunt for insects at night.

    • 2

      Kill the centipede̵7;s food source by eliminating insects living in the basement. To kill insects, make sure the area is clean by removing debris, shelter and food sources on which insects feed. A clean space will attract fewer insects and keep them from coming back. A one-time sweep, using an insecticide spray, can help eliminate any insects currently living in a basement.

    • 3

      Install a dehumidifier to prevent moisture and favorable living conditions for centipedes. Make sure none of the basement pipes are leaking, and insulate cold water pipes with foam insulation tubes to prevent condensation.

    • 4

      Clean the outside area surrounding your home and basement. Stones, leaf mulch, decaying wood and other debris could be attracting centipedes near your home.