The Secret Ingredient You Need To Keep Millipedes Out Of Your House

With their countless long legs, millipedes are naturally unwelcome in many homes. Though they do not bite or sting, or infect food, their presence can be quite unsettling, especially when they seem to materialize out of nowhere. While harsh chemical pesticides might seem the most effective solution, there is a gentler and easier option. Vinegar is one common pantry staple that can be a natural form of pest control to keep millipedes away. It's not only cost-effective but enables you to skip using harsh chemicals in your home.

Millipedes prefer staying outdoors and will only seek shelter indoors if the weather is bad. These moisture-loving bugs thrive in damp environments so leaky basements and overwatered houseplants can attract them. Additionally, millipedes are also attracted to decaying organic matter such as plants, leaves, and vegetation which is their primary food source, which can build up in neglected corners, around plants, or under leaky appliances.

The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a repellent, masking attractive scents and creating a barrier they'd rather not cross. To use vinegar to get rid of pests, make a DIY millipede-repelling spray. Simply combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oils like peppermint oil, tea tree oil, or citronella for extra punch as these oils are also known to repel these arthropods. Vinegar also works to help remove the scent of any crushed or dead millipedes you may find.

Spray liberally around doors, windows, and any cracks or crevices where millipedes might sneak in, especially in places where you have seen millipedes before, or find dark pellets which can be their droppings, or white sacs which can be millipede eggs. Don't forget basements, crawl spaces, and areas around plumbing pipes. Repeat the spraying process every few days, especially after heavy rain or if you see new millipede activity.

While vinegar is a powerful tool, it's not a one-stop solution. To keep your home millipede-free, moisture matters so address any leaks or dampness issues in your home promptly. Fix leaky faucets, use dehumidifiers in humid areas, and ensure proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces.

Then declutter and clean up, both inside and out. To keep millipedes out of your garden and thereby away from your house, remove piles of leaves, debris, and mulch from around your foundation. Regularly clean and vacuum under furniture and appliances, eliminating potential hiding spots and food sources for millipedes. Seal cracks and crevices around your home's exterior, particularly near entry points like doors and windows. This will make it harder for millipedes to find their way inside. Remember that, while vinegar can help effectively deter millipedes, it won't eliminate an existing infestation completely and you may require stronger repellants. For larger infestations, consider seeking professional pest control services.