Seeing those 15-legged creatures scuttling across your bathroom floor can make anyone jump.
To get rid of house centipedes, you need to eliminate their food sources, reduce moisture, seal entry points, and use targeted treatments like diatomaceous earth, boric acid, or insecticide sprays.
I've helped dozens of homeowners deal with centipede problems over the years.
The good news is that most infestations can be resolved within 2-3 weeks with the right approach.
In this guide, I'll walk you through everything I've learned about eliminating these unsettling pests and keeping them away for good.
Understanding House Centipedes
House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are elongated arthropods with 15 pairs of long, banded legs that allow them to move quickly across surfaces.
Adults typically measure 1-1.5 inches in length with yellowish-gray bodies and three dark stripes running down their back.
House Centipede: A predatory arthropod common in damp areas of homes. Despite their frightening appearance, they hunt other insects and rarely bite humans.
Are House Centipedes Dangerous?
House centipedes are generally not dangerous to humans or pets.
They can bite if handled roughly, but their venom is mild and rarely causes more than a slight redness or minor swelling in most people.
Having centipedes actually means you likely have other insects they're feeding on.
What Attracts Centipedes?
Centipedes are attracted to moisture, humidity, and abundant food sources like other insects.
Common hiding spots include basements, bathrooms, crawl spaces, and areas with water leaks.
What Kills Centipedes Instantly
When you need immediate results, certain treatments work faster than others.
Insecticide sprays with active ingredients like cypermethrin or deltamethrin kill on contact within minutes.
Direct application methods work best for instant kills.
Immediate Kill Methods:
- Insecticide sprays: Raid or similar products kill within minutes of direct contact
- Direct squashing: Not ideal but instantly effective for occasional sightings
- Hot water: Pouring hot water on them kills quickly (limited practicality)
- Residual dusts: Take hours to days, not instant, but provide longer control
⚠️ Important: Always read and follow label instructions when using insecticides. Keep children and pets away from treated areas until completely dry.
Step-by-Step Centipede Elimination Process
Getting rid of centipedes permanently requires addressing the root causes, not just killing the ones you see.
I've seen homeowners spray for months without results because they never addressed the moisture problem that was attracting centipedes in the first place.
Quick Summary: The most effective approach combines moisture reduction, sealing entry points, removing other insects (their food source), and applying targeted treatments. This integrated method typically resolves problems within 2-3 weeks.
Step 1: Inspect and Identify Problem Areas
Walk through your home during the day with a flashlight to find centipede hiding spots.
Check baseboards, corners of rooms, under sinks, around pipes, and in dark closets.
Look for cracks in walls, gaps around windows, and spaces where pipes enter the home.
I typically find the highest concentrations in basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms where humidity is highest.
Step 2: Reduce Moisture Levels
Use a dehumidifier in damp areas to bring humidity below 50%.
Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and any sources of standing water.
Ensure bathrooms and kitchens are properly ventilated with exhaust fans.
Step 3: Remove Food Sources
Centipedes eat other insects like spiders, silverfish, roaches, and ants.
Address any other pest issues you have to eliminate the centipede food supply.
I once worked with a homeowner who reduced their centipede sightings by 80% just by eliminating a silverfish problem in their basement.
Step 4: Seal Entry Points
Use silicone caulk to seal cracks in walls, gaps around windows, and spaces around pipes entering your home.
Install door sweeps on exterior doors to block entry from below.
Repair or replace damaged window screens.
Step 5: Apply Treatments
Use diatomaceous earth or boric acid in cracks and crevices where centipedes hide.
Apply insecticide sprays along baseboards and in corners of infested rooms.
Place sticky traps along walls to monitor and reduce centipede populations.
Step 6: Monitor and Maintain
Check sticky traps regularly to track centipede activity.
Reapply treatments after cleaning or as directed on product labels.
Continue moisture control measures to prevent reinfestation.
Best Products for Centipede Control
The right products make a significant difference in effectiveness.
I've tested numerous options over the years and found that using a combination approach works best.
Here are the most effective products I've found for different situations and needs.
1. HARRIS Diatomaceous Earth - Best Natural Powder Treatment
HARRIS Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade, 2lb with...
Form: 2lb powder
Includes: Duster applicator
Type: Food Grade DE
Coverage: Large areas
Pet Safe: Yes when dry
What we like
- Natural physical action
- Long-lasting effect
- Included duster for easy use
- Safe around pets and children
- Effective against many crawling insects
What could be better
- Can be messy during application
- Takes time to work
- Requires reapplication after cleaning
- Should not be inhaled
Diatomaceous earth works by dehydrating insects that crawl through it.
The microscopic fossils physically damage the centipede's exoskeleton, causing them to die from dehydration.
I recommend placing DE in cracks, behind appliances, and along baseboards where centipedes travel.
Why Use Diatomaceous Earth?
This natural option is perfect for households with pets and children who want to avoid harsh chemicals.
When to Choose Something Else
If you need instant results, DE takes time to work - typically 2-7 days depending on humidity levels.
2. J T Eaton Glue Traps - Best Monitoring Solution
J T Eaton 076706844002 Spider and Cricket Glue...
Type: Glue traps
Quantity: 5 per box
Scented: Yes
Indoor Use: Yes
Chemical Free: Yes
What we like
- No chemicals or pesticides
- Helps identify infestation severity
- Easy placement along walls
- Safe around pets and children
- Disposable for easy cleanup
What could be better
- Only catches pests that cross them
- Doesn't prevent infestations alone
- Can be unsightly when full
- Some pests learn to avoid
Glue traps serve dual purposes: catching centipedes and helping you understand the severity of your problem.
I place these along baseboards in corners and near suspected entry points.
Why Use Glue Traps?
These pesticide-free traps are ideal for monitoring whether your treatment efforts are working.
They're also perfect for homes where chemical treatments aren't desired.
When to Choose Something Else
Glue traps alone won't eliminate an infestation - use them as part of a comprehensive approach.
3. NOW Foods Peppermint Oil - Best Natural Repellent
NOW Foods Peppermint Oil, 4 Fluid Ounce (2 Pack)
Type: Essential oil
Size: 4 fl oz (2 pack)
Purity: 100% pure
Certified: Non-GMO Vegan
Scent: Strong mint
What we like
- Pleasant scent for humans
- Natural repellent for centipedes
- Multiple household uses
- Safe when properly diluted
- High quality and potency
What could be better
- Requires frequent reapplication
- Scent fades over time
- Must be diluted for safe use
- May not eliminate existing infestations
- Higher cost for regular pest control use
Peppermint oil creates a scent barrier that centipedes and many other insects prefer to avoid.
Mix 10-15 drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and apply around entry points and suspected hiding areas.
Why Use Peppermint Oil?
This versatile oil works as a preventive measure and is safe for homes with children and pets when properly diluted.
When to Choose Something Else
For active infestations, peppermint oil works best alongside other elimination methods rather than as a standalone treatment.
4. GE Silicone Caulk - Best Entry Point Sealer
GE All Purpose Silicone Caulk for Window & Door,...
Type: 100% silicone sealant
Size: 10.1 fl oz
Color: Clear
Finish: Waterproof
Indoor Outdoor: Both
What we like
- 100% waterproof and long-lasting
- Clear finish blends with surfaces
- Freeze and sun proof
- Strong adhesion to materials
- Essential for pest prevention
What could be better
- Requires caulking gun
- 24-hour cure time needed
- Can be messy for beginners
- Needs surface preparation
- Not paintable once cured
Sealing entry points is one of the most effective long-term prevention strategies.
This clear silicone caulk creates a durable, waterproof barrier that blocks centipedes and other pests from entering your home.
Why Use Silicone Caulk?
Prevention is often more effective than treatment, and sealing cracks addresses the root cause of infestations.
When to Choose Something Else
If you're renting or cannot modify your home's structure, focus on other treatment methods.
5. Raid Ant & Roach Killer - Best Contact Killer
Raid Ant & Roach Killer 26, Fragrance Free Bug...
Type: Insecticide spray
Size: 17.5 oz (2 pack)
Action: Kills on contact
Scent: Fragrance free
Active: Imiprothrin Cypermethrin
What we like
- Kills on contact
- Fragrance-free formula
- Extended spray wand
- Trusted brand
- Works on multiple pests
What could be better
- Chemical-based formula
- Not eco-friendly
- Requires direct spray for best effect
- Not a long-term solution
- May need multiple applications
For immediate results when you spot a centipede, this contact killer is hard to beat.
The extended spray wand helps you reach corners and crevices without getting too close.
Why Use Raid Spray?
When you need instant gratification and want to eliminate centipedes on sight, this spray delivers quick results.
When to Choose Something Else
Contact sprays don't provide long-term prevention and should be part of a broader treatment strategy.
6. KeepGlad Dehumidifier - Best Root Cause Solution
KeepGlad Dehumidifier, 98OZ Dehumidifiers for...
Capacity: 98 oz tank
Coverage: Up to 1000 sq ft
Features: Auto shut off drain hose timer
Filter: Washable reusable
Lights: 7 ambient options
What we like
- 98oz large capacity
- Covers large rooms effectively
- Auto shut-off prevents overflow
- Included drain hose for continuous use
- Timer for scheduled operation
- Addresses moisture root cause
What could be better
- Higher initial cost
- Requires regular filter cleaning
- Needs positioning near drain for hose
- Newer product with fewer reviews
Centipedes thrive in humid environments, making moisture control essential for long-term prevention.
This dehumidifier covers up to 1000 square feet and includes convenient features like auto shut-off and a drain hose for continuous operation.
Why Use a Dehumidifier?
Addressing the moisture problem that attracts centipedes is often the most effective long-term solution.
When to Choose Something Else
If your home doesn't have humidity issues, focus on sealing entry points and other treatment methods.
7. HARRIS Boric Acid - Best Budget Powder Treatment
HARRIS Boric Acid Roach and Silverfish Killer...
Type: Boric acid powder
Size: 16 oz
Includes: Lure attractant
Action: Stomach poison desiccant
Target: Multiple insects
What we like
- Very affordable
- Contains lure for attraction
- Long-lasting effect
- Effective against many insects
- Works in cracks and crevices
What could be better
- Must keep away from pets and children
- Powder can be messy
- Slower acting than sprays
- Takes days to work
- Not for open areas
Boric acid is a time-tested pest control solution that works as both a stomach poison and desiccant.
The included lure helps attract pests to the powder, increasing effectiveness.
Why Use Boric Acid?
For an affordable, long-lasting treatment that continues working for months, boric acid is excellent value.
When to Choose Something Else
Avoid using boric acid in homes with curious pets or small children who might come into contact with treated areas.
8. TERRO Ant Dust - Best Outdoor/Indoor Protection
TERRO Ant Dust Powder Killer for Indoors and...
Protection: Up to 8 months
Type: Deltamethrin dust
Use: Indoor outdoor
Format: Shaker bottle
Weather: Resistant
What we like
- Up to 8 months protection
- Works indoors and outdoors
- Easy shaker applicator
- Kills many insects
- Weather-resistant for outdoor use
What could be better
- Dust can be messy
- Avoid pet accessible areas
- Not for food prep areas
- Outdoor rain may require retreatment
- Stronger chemical than boric acid
This long-lasting dust provides up to 8 months of protection and works both indoors and outdoors.
The weather-resistant formula makes it ideal for perimeter treatments around your home's foundation.
Why Use TERRO Ant Dust?
For comprehensive protection that includes outdoor perimeter treatment, this dust delivers extended protection.
When to Choose Something Else
If you need pet-safe options or want to avoid stronger chemicals, consider diatomaceous earth instead.
Treatment Method Comparison
| Method | Effectiveness | Cost | Pet Safe | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insecticide Spray | High (contact) | $ | After drying | Short-term |
| Diatomaceous Earth | Medium-High | $ | Yes (when dry) | Long-term |
| Boric Acid | Medium-High | $ | No | Long-term |
| Sticky Traps | Low-Medium | $ | Yes | Short-term |
| Peppermint Oil | Medium (repellent) | $$ | Yes (diluted) | Short-term |
| Dehumidifier | High (prevention) | $$$ | N/A | Ongoing |
Natural Ways to Repel Centipedes
If you prefer to avoid chemical treatments, several natural options can help deter centipedes from your home.
Natural methods work best as preventive measures rather than elimination solutions for active infestations.
Essential Oil Repellents
Beyond peppermint oil, other scents that centipedes dislike include cedar oil, lavender, and eucalyptus.
Mix 10-15 drops of essential oil with water and a small amount of dish soap in a spray bottle.
Apply around door frames, windows, and baseboards weekly for best results.
Diatomaceous Earth Application
Apply food-grade DE in thin layers along baseboards, behind appliances, and in cracks where centipedes hide.
Use a duster or squeeze bottle for precise application.
Reapply after cleaning or if the powder gets wet, as moisture reduces effectiveness.
Cedar Chips and Blocks
Place cedar chips or blocks in closets, basements, and other areas where centipedes are seen.
The natural oils in cedar act as a repellent to many insects including centipedes.
Replace cedar products every 6-12 months as the scent fades over time.
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Prevention is more effective and less expensive than dealing with recurring infestations.
I worked with one homeowner who spent hundreds on repeated treatments before finally addressing a foundation crack that was letting centipedes in.
Sealing Your Home Against Pests
- Inspect exterior: Walk around your home's foundation looking for cracks and gaps
- Caulk openings: Use silicone caulk to seal cracks in foundation and walls
- Door sweeps: Install or replace worn door sweeps on all exterior doors
- Window screens: Repair or replace damaged window screens
- Pipe openings: Seal gaps around pipes and wires entering the home
- Vent covers: Install mesh covers on foundation vents and crawlspace openings
Moisture Control
Maintain indoor humidity below 50% using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and any sources of standing water immediately.
Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation.
Habitat Modification
Remove clutter, cardboard boxes, and stored items from contact with walls in basements and crawlspaces.
Trim vegetation and mulch away from your home's foundation to reduce hiding spots.
Consider exterior lighting that doesn't attract as many insects, reducing the centipede food source near your home.
✅ Pro Tip: Most centipede problems can be resolved within 2-3 weeks using a combination approach: reduce moisture, seal entry points, eliminate other insects, and apply targeted treatments in cracks and crevices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills centipedes instantly?
Insecticide sprays containing cypermethrin or deltamethrin kill centipedes on contact within minutes. Direct application is required for instant results. For natural options, diatomaceous earth and boric acid work but take several days to eliminate centipedes through dehydration.
Are house centipedes dangerous?
House centipedes are generally not dangerous to humans or pets. They can bite if handled roughly, but their venom is mild and rarely causes more than slight redness or minor swelling. They are actually beneficial as they eat other pest insects.
Why do I suddenly have house centipedes?
Sudden appearances usually mean recent changes in your home environment. Common causes include increased humidity from leaks or weather changes, an increase in other insects providing food, or new entry points opening from foundation settling or weather damage.
What attracts house centipedes?
House centipedes are attracted to moisture, humidity, and food sources. Damp areas like basements and bathrooms are prime habitats. Having other insects like spiders, silverfish, or roaches provides the food source that attracts and sustains centipedes.
What scent keeps centipedes away?
Peppermint oil is the most effective natural scent repellent for centipedes. Other scents that may help include cedar oil, lavender, and eucalyptus. Mix essential oils with water and spray around entry points and hiding areas weekly for best results.
Do house centipedes bite?
House centipedes can bite but rarely do so unless handled roughly or threatened. Their bite is comparable to a bee sting for most people - painful but not dangerous. Severe allergic reactions are extremely rare but possible.
Should I kill house centipedes?
It's a personal choice. Centipedes eat other pest insects, so they provide some benefit. However, most people prefer to eliminate them due to their unsettling appearance. If you have a significant population, it likely means you have other pest issues to address.
What naturally kills centipedes?
Diatomaceous earth is the most effective natural treatment - it kills by physically damaging the exoskeleton and causing dehydration. Boric acid powder also works naturally but should be used with caution around pets and children. Sticky traps provide chemical-free catching and monitoring.
Final Recommendations
Getting rid of house centipedes is most effective when you address the root causes rather than just killing the ones you see.
In my experience helping homeowners with centipede problems, the combination of moisture reduction, sealing entry points, and targeted treatments consistently produces the best results within 2-3 weeks.
Start with prevention strategies first, then add treatments based on your specific situation and safety needs for children and pets.
With the right approach, you can enjoy a centipede-free home without relying on expensive professional services.
