To kill a centipede effectively, you can use several methods:
- Insecticides: Use insecticides containing bifenthrin, cypermethrin, or other pyrethroids. Spray these around baseboards, windows, door casings, cracks, and crevices to kill centipedes on contact and create a barrier to prevent entry. Always follow safety instructions and keep insecticides away from children and pets
- Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth powder around entry points, cracks, and damp areas. This natural powder pierces the centipede's exoskeleton and dehydrates it, leading to death
- Sticky Traps: Place sticky traps in dark, damp corners and along baseboards to catch centipedes. Check and replace traps regularly
- Natural Remedies: Spray essential oils like peppermint or cedar diluted in water around entry points and infested areas to repel centipedes. Undiluted vinegar can kill centipedes on contact if sprayed directly
- Remove Food and Shelter: Eliminate other insects (their food source) using safe pest control methods, reduce clutter, seal cracks, and reduce humidity inside the home to make the environment less hospitable
- Mothballs: Placing mothballs around infested areas releases naphthalene gas, which is toxic to centipedes, but use with caution due to toxicity
- Vacuuming: Use a high-powered vacuum to suck up centipedes and dispose of the vacuum bag outdoors
If infestations persist, consider hiring a professional pest control service for more thorough treatment
. These combined approaches help kill centipedes and prevent them from returning.
