When a centipede suddenly appears in your bathroom or basement, the first reaction for many people is to squash it. However, letting these tiny creatures live can actually be more beneficial than you might think.
Natural Pest Controllers
House centipedes thrive in damp, dark areas and are quick movers, which makes them excellent hunters. Instead of being a nuisance, they often help control unwanted pests in your home.
Their diet includes insects such as ants, spiders, and even cockroaches—common pests that most homeowners would rather not have around.
Harmless to Humans
Despite their somewhat unsettling appearance, centipedes are completely harmless to people. They are not poisonous, and they cannot bite through human skin. Their mild toxins are designed only to affect tiny prey, which means you have nothing to fear from them.
Humane Ways to Relocate Them
If you still prefer not to share your space with centipedes, there are simple, humane ways to remove them. Reducing moisture levels in your home can make the environment less appealing to them. If you encounter one, you can also trap it in a glass container and safely release it outdoors in a shaded, damp area such as under rocks or near soil.
A Helpful Houseguest
While it may be startling to see one scurrying across the floor, it helps to remember that house centipedes are more of a friend than a foe. By keeping other pest populations under control, they provide a natural balance in your home without the need for harmful chemicals or sprays.