What Are Millipedes?

Millipedes are worm-like arthropods with a cylindrical body that go mostly unnoticed by people, that is until they decide to invade our homes. Millipedes spend their lives in damp, dark areas like under fallen trees, logs, and rocks. 

Most millipedes that you come across in Dallas are going to be dark brown, with some having red or orange-mottled markings. Millipedes have two pairs of legs per body segment. As scavengers, millipedes help to get rid of decaying vegetation. 

Millepedes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are millipedes dangerous?

Millipedes are scavengers and feed on decaying vegetation. They do not bite people, nor are they known to transmit diseases. Millipedes tend only to become a problem or an annoyance for us when they move into our homes in large numbers. If crushed when in your home, millipedes can stain walls, floors, and fabrics.

Something to be aware of is that millipedes secrete a liquid that can blister the skin of people. Luckily this is not a significant concern, as it is easy to avoid contact with these slow-moving creatures. 

Why do I have a millipede problem?

The dead leaves, mulch, soil, landscaping ties, and flower beds found around the perimeter of most of our homes are the perfect habitat for millipedes. 
 
If the weather outside becomes too hot or dry, they will migrate in large groups seeking cool and damp areas to hide. While looking for more comfortable living conditions, millipedes often end up inside of our homes.
 
After moving inside, if they can’t find a damp location, they die very quickly, leaving you with the problem of having to clean up hundreds of dead millipedes.

Where will I find millipedes?

Millipedes live in cool, damp locations. Homes with underlying moisture issues have the most problems with millipedes. Leaky pipes, clogged gutters, and spaces around windows and doors will allow moisture to seep into your home’s walls. 
 
Water causes door and window frames to become damaged, allowing millipedes and other pests to find their way inside. They also squeeze their way in through spaces in the foundation and gaps under basement doors. Once inside, millipedes typically gravitate to areas with high humidity like bathrooms, crawl spaces, and basements.

How do I get rid of millipedes?

Locally owned and family-operated, All-Safe Pest & Termite is the best choice to get rid of millipedes from your home or business. We offer fast response times and peace of mind knowing that your pest problems will be solved, and they won’t return. Our experienced professionals provide top-quality pest control services using the latest and most effective products to eliminate millipedes from Dallas properties. Discover why your neighbors choose All-Safe Pest & Termite for their pest control needs. Give us a call today!

How can I prevent millipedes in the future?

Prevent problems with millipedes by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Regularly and thoroughly inspect the outside of your home. If any gaps are discovered in the foundation or under doors, make repairs.
• Repair clogged gutters, damaged door or window trim, and missing roof shingles to prevent rainwater from seeping into your home.
• Cover any vents and other openings leading into your house with a mesh cover.
• Repair any leaky pipes and drippy faucets.
• Create a barrier between garden beds and your home’s foundation.
• Rake or cut back tall grass, weeds, and leaf debris from your home’s exterior.
• Cut shrubbery away from your home to help keep the soil dry.