Millipedes may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re considering pests on your property and in your home. However, they can invade your space and can become a nuisance for a lot of home owners.
In general, millipedes are not a threat to humans as they don’t bite; but they do excrete a foul smell when they feel threatened, and that’s not pleasant at all. If it happens for you to get any on your skin, you should wash it off immediately as it can cause irritation.
If you think you may have a millipede infestation then you should find out more info here about your local exterminator.
Signs Of An Infestation
It’s important to recognize when you may have a millipede issue, this will allow you to take the appropriate steps to get rid of them.
In fact, there is no real sign of infestation! Millipedes tend to stay out of sight, if you do start seeing any on your floor then there’s a good chance there are more, you’ll probably want expert help locating their nest and eliminating them.
Getting Rid Of Millipedes
There are several things you can do to eliminate the millipedes and discourage them, or others from returning.
Remove Moisture
Millipedes generally live outside under mulch, compost piles, by flowerpots, or even under stones. They are attracted to damp and dark conditions. They are most likely to enter your home in extreme weather conditions. Drought will force them to look for water in your home, while heavy rain can flood their usual shelter and force them to find a new one.
In fact, looking for an abundance of millipedes outside your home will help you to figure out if you have, or are likely to have an infestation.
Use good ventilation and, if necessary, a dry heat, to remove the moisture from your foundations. You can also check for water leaks to ensure water is not collecting under your home. Eliminating the water makes your foundations less attractive.
Outside Water
Water can collect in your foundations or basement if you have damaged or overflowing gutters. This causes water to flow down your walls and into your home, creating a desirable habitat for the millipedes.
Look at your outside drainage and adjust it to ensure it works properly and keeps water away from your home.
Consider Sprinkler Use
Sprinklers can help your plants to stay healthy. But, they can also create pools of water on your lawn which are attractive to millipedes and other pests. Adjust the settings to reduce the risk of this happening.
Maintain Your Lawn
A badly maintained lawn creates a moist thatch layer near the ground. This creates the perfect environment for millipedes. Look after your grass and you’ll reduce the attractiveness of your garden to millipedes. If they’re not attracted to the outside of your home they won’t be interested in checking out the inside.
Don’t forget millipedes can get through the tiniest of gaps, visually inspect your home and seal any cracks to keep the pests outside, where they belong.
