Get Rid Of Woodlice At Home In 10 Simple Steps

Discovering woodlice in your house can be frustrating, but getting rid of them is straightforward. This article will explain how to effectively get rid of woodlice in-house, covering identification, removal methods, and prevention tips.

Key Takeaways

• Woodlice thrive in damp, dark environments and are primarily attracted to moisture and decomposing organic matter; keeping a clean and dry home is essential in preventing infestations.
• Natural repellents like citrus peels, coffee grounds, and essential oils can deter woodlice, and homemade traps using damp newspapers or potatoes can help capture and remove them.
• Reducing moisture levels, sealing entry points, and removing attractive decaying organic material are crucial steps to prevent woodlice from entering and settling in your home.

Identifying Woodlice

To efficiently handle a woodlice infestation, we first need to comprehend what exactly we’re up against. Woodlice, also known as pill bugs or roly-polies, are fascinating little creatures that belong to the crustacean family – yes, they’re more closely related to shrimp and crabs than to insects! Among the various woodlice species, these oval-shaped crustaceans are easily recognisable by their:

• Thick, bumpy exoskeleton
• Uniform grey colour
• Typically measuring between 13mm to 15mm in length
• Seven body segments, each equipped with a pair of legs
• Two pairs of antennae that help them navigate their surroundings

Understanding what woodlice eat can also be helpful in dealing with an infestation. In fact, the way woodlice perform their role in the ecosystem is crucial to maintaining a healthy environment.

Given their preference for damp conditions, woodlice is prevalent in gardens, forests, and, regrettably, in our homes – all of which can be considered natural ecosystems where woodlice thrive. During the day, these nocturnal creatures seek refuge in cool, dark places, only to emerge at night in search of food and moisture. You’re likely to spot them under stones, in rotting leaves, or nestled in dead wood and stumps outdoors. Indoors, they gravitate towards damp areas like basements, bathrooms, or any space with high humidity and potential water damage. Gaining insights into their habitat preferences enables us to pinpoint potential problem areas in our homes and devise strategies to dissuade woodlice from settling in.

Why Do I Have Woodlice in My House?

If you’re puzzled as to why these tiny crustaceans have taken up residence in your home, it’s likely due to the environment that has unintentionally been curated for them. Woodlice are primarily attracted to two things: moisture and decomposing organic matter. Your house might be providing the perfect conditions for a woodlice infestation without you even realising it. Excessive moisture or very humid climates are common culprits, making your home an irresistible haven for these moisture-loving creatures.

But it’s not just about dampness. Woodlice feed on rotting wood, mildew, and decaying matter, which means they’re drawn to areas where these materials are present. That pile of damp newspapers in the garage, the wooden fixtures affected by water damage, or even the accumulation of dead leaves near your foundation could all be sending out an open invitation to woodlice. In addition, damp wood in your home can also attract these creatures.

Understanding these attractants is key to addressing the root cause of your woodlice problem and implementing effective prevention strategies. Identifying and eliminating these favorable conditions will set you on the path towards making your home less alluring to these unwelcome visitors.

Effective Methods to Get Rid of Woodlice

Having identified the culprits and figured out why they’re attracted to your home, now it’s time to get down to business. We’re about to embark on a ten-step journey to reclaim your living space from these persistent pests. From simple cleaning techniques to natural repellents and preventative measures, we’ve got a comprehensive arsenal to combat your woodlice problem.

These methods range from inexpensive, DIY solutions like vacuuming and using electronic pulsing devices, to more targeted approaches using anti-insect sprays. Remember, the key to success lies in a multi-faceted approach, combining immediate removal tactics with long-term prevention strategies. So, let’s explore our initial defence strategy against these moisture-seeking intruders.

1. Vacuuming and Cleaning

The first step in our woodlice-busting journey is perhaps the simplest yet most effective: vacuuming and cleaning. Regular cleaning is your frontline defence against woodlice infestations. Maintaining a clean, dry environment not only helps eradicate existing woodlice but also makes your home less conducive to potential invaders.

When you spot woodlice, don’t hesitate – reach for your vacuum cleaner immediately. The powerful suction of a vacuum is an excellent way to quickly and efficiently remove woodlice from your indoor spaces. Pay special attention to corners, crevices, and areas near doors and windows where woodlice tends to congregate. After vacuuming, be sure to dispose of the contents in a sealed bag outside your home to prevent any escapees.

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, you can also sweep up the woodlice using a brush and dustpan, then return them to their natural outdoor environment. Remember, consistency is key. Make vacuuming and cleaning a regular part of your routine, especially in areas prone to moisture, to keep woodlice at bay and maintain a pest-free home.

2. Natural Repellents

If you’re looking for a chemical-free way to deter woodlice, nature has provided us with some excellent options. Natural repellents can be a safe, effective, and pleasant-smelling alternative to harsh chemical sprays. Citrus peels and coffee grounds are two of the most commonly used and easily accessible natural deterrents. These common household items emit scents that woodlice find unappealing, making them excellent barriers against these pests.

But the natural arsenal doesn’t stop there. Your woodlice control strategy can also greatly benefit from the use of essential oils. Peppermint oil, lavender oil, and tea tree oil are particularly effective at repelling woodlice. To use these natural remedies, simply place citrus peels or sprinkle coffee grounds in areas where you’ve noticed woodlice activity. For essential oils, mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and apply to entry points and problem areas. Not only will these solutions help keep woodlice at bay, but they’ll also leave your home smelling fresh and invigorating.

Though these natural methods are generally safe, it’s still recommended to first test them on a small, less visible area to ensure they don’t cause any damage to surfaces or fabrics.

3. Setting Traps

When it comes to controlling woodlice populations in your home, sometimes the old adage “if you can’t beat them, join them” applies – but with a twist. Trap setting proves to be an effective method to catch these crustacean invaders, facilitating their removal from your living space without resorting to harmful chemicals.

Two simple yet highly effective traps you can create at home are the damp newspaper trap and the potato trap. Let’s start with the newspaper trap. This method takes advantage of woodlice’s attraction to damp, dark spaces. Here’s how to do it:

1. Roll up a newspaper.
2. Dampen it slightly.
3. Place it in areas where you’ve noticed woodlice activity.
4. Leave it overnight.
5. In the morning, you’re likely to find a collection of woodlice inside the paper, making it easy to dispose of.

The potato trap works on a similar principle. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Cut a potato in half.
2. Scoop out some of the middle.
3. Place the hollowed-out halves cut-side down in woodlice-prone areas.
4. The moisture and darkness will attract the woodlice, who will crawl inside.
5. Check your traps regularly and dispose of any captured woodlice outdoors, far from your home’s foundation.

Besides controlling the woodlice population, these trapping methods also enable you to assess the efficacy of your overall pest management strategy.

Preventative Measures to Keep Woodlice Out

While getting rid of existing woodlice is vital, the real secret to long-term success is prevention. By making your home less attractive and accessible to these moisture-loving critters, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of future infestations. The following preventative measures form a comprehensive strategy to keep woodlice at bay. From moisture control to sealing entry points, each step plays a vital role in creating an environment that’s inhospitable to woodlice. Remember, the aim is to maintain a completely dry and warm home, creating conditions contrary to what woodlice seeks.

Let’s delve into these preventative measures, beginning with a crucial aspect: minimising moisture levels within and around your home.

4. Reducing Moisture Levels

When it comes to woodlice control, moisture is your number one enemy. These crustaceans thrive in damp conditions, so maintaining a dry environment is crucial to preventing infestations. The first step in reducing moisture levels is to identify and address any existing damp issues in your home. This might involve solving condensation problems, fixing leaky pipes, or addressing areas with poor ventilation.

One effective tool in your moisture-fighting arsenal is a dehumidifier. These devices can be particularly useful in areas prone to high humidity, such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. By reducing the ambient moisture in the air, dehumidifiers create an environment that’s far less appealing to woodlice. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation throughout your home. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove excess moisture, and consider installing vents in areas that tend to be damp.

Don’t forget about the exterior of your home. Proper drainage around your foundation is essential to prevent water accumulation near entry points. Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure water is directed away from your home. If you notice any areas where water tends to pool near your foundation, consider regrading the soil to promote better drainage. By taking these steps to reduce moisture levels both inside and outside your home, you’re creating an environment that’s far less hospitable to woodlice, significantly reducing the likelihood of an infestation.

5. Sealing Entry Points

Even in conditions of reduced moisture, woodlice can still invade your home if there are accessible entry points. A crucial step in woodlice prevention is to conduct a thorough inspection of your home’s exterior and interior, looking for any cracks, gaps, or openings that could serve as potential entryways for these persistent pests. Pay close attention to areas around windows, doors, and where pipes or cables enter your home, as these are common weak spots in a home’s defences against pests.

Once you’ve identified potential entry points, it’s time to seal them up. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Use a high-quality sealant or caulk to fill in cracks and gaps in your walls, floors, and door frames.
2. For larger openings, you might need to use expanding foam or even call in a professional for repairs.
3. Don’t forget to check and repair any damaged screens on windows and doors, as these can provide easy access for woodlice.

By sealing these entry points, you’re not only preventing woodlice from entering your home but also improving your home’s energy efficiency by reducing drafts.

Remember, this isn’t a one-off task – regular inspection and maintenance of these seals are required to ensure your home stays unassailable against woodlice invasions.

6. Removing Attractants

While moisture is the primary lure for woodlice, removing other attractants from your property can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation. Woodlice are nature’s decomposers, drawn to decaying organic matter, such as rotting natural matter. As such, your yard can inadvertently become a woodlice haven if not properly maintained. Start by regularly clearing away decaying leaves, plant debris, and any other organic materials from your yard, especially areas close to your home’s foundation.

Pay special attention to woodpiles and other forms of rotting wood near your house. While these might seem like convenient storage solutions, they’re essentially rolling out the red carpet for house woodlice. If you must keep firewood or lumber on your property, store it as far from your home as possible and elevate it off the ground. Additionally, consider removing or relocating any unnecessary organic mulch from around your home’s perimeter. By eliminating these attractants, you’re making your property far less appealing to woodlice, reducing the chances they’ll venture into your home in search of shelter and addressing concerns about woodlice’s harmful effects.

7. Trim Vegetation

Your garden might be a source of pride, but overgrown vegetation can inadvertently provide a highway for woodlice to access your home. Keep plants and shrubs well-trimmed, especially those close to your house’s exterior walls. This not only reduces potential habitats for woodlice but also improves air circulation around your home, helping to keep the area drier.

Pay particular attention to climbing plants or ivy on your walls, as these can create humid microclimates that woodlice love. When trimming, ensure that no branches or leaves are in direct contact with your home’s exterior, as these can serve as bridges for woodlice to cross. By maintaining a clear zone between your vegetation and your home, you’re creating a barrier that woodlice will find challenging to cross, further protecting your living space from these unwanted visitors.

8. Improve Drainage

Proper drainage around your home is crucial in the fight against woodlice infestations. These moisture-loving creatures are drawn to areas where water accumulates, making poor drainage a major attractant. To combat this, ensure that water drains away from your home’s foundation effectively. This might involve regrading the soil around your house to create a gentle slope away from the building, preventing water from pooling near your walls.

Don’t forget about your home’s gutter system – it plays a vital role in directing water away from your foundation. Here are some tips to keep your gutters and downspouts in good condition:

• Regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages that could lead to water overflow.
• Consider installing downspout extensions to ensure water is deposited well away from your home.
• If you notice any areas in your yard where water tends to collect, consider installing a French drain or other drainage solution to redirect the water.

By improving drainage around your property, you’re not only deterring woodlice but also protecting your home from potential water damage and other moisture-related issues.

9. Use Diatomaceous Earth

In terms of natural and effective woodlice deterrents, diatomaceous earth (DE) stands as a potent weapon in your pest control arsenal. This fine, powdery substance is made from the fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. While it feels soft to human touch, it’s actually quite abrasive on a microscopic level – and that’s what makes it so effective against woodlice and other pests.

To use diatomaceous earth, follow these steps:

1. Sprinkle a thin layer of food-grade DE around entry points and in damp areas where you’ve noticed woodlice activity.
2. The sharp edges of the diatomaceous earth particles will damage the exoskeletons of woodlice that come into contact with it, eventually dehydrating and killing them.
3. It’s important to note that DE is most effective when dry, so reapply after rain or in particularly humid conditions.

While diatomaceous earth is generally considered safe for humans and pets, it’s best to wear a dust mask when applying it to avoid inhaling the fine particles. This natural method provides a long-lasting barrier against woodlice, making it an excellent addition to your overall prevention strategy.

10. Pesticides

While natural methods are often sufficient for controlling woodlice populations, there may be instances where a more potent solution is necessary. In such cases, pesticides specifically designed for woodlice control can be an effective last resort. However, it’s crucial to approach chemical solutions with caution and respect for both your health and the environment.

If you decide to use pesticides, always choose a product specifically formulated for woodlice or general crawling insects. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow them to the letter. Apply the pesticide sparingly and only in areas where woodlice is a persistent problem. Remember, overuse of pesticides can be harmful to beneficial insects, pets, and even humans.

It’s also worth noting that while pesticides can provide a quick fix, they don’t address the underlying conditions that attract woodlice. Therefore, it’s essential to combine any pesticide use with the preventative measures we’ve discussed to ensure long-term success in your woodlice control efforts.

When to Call a Pest Control Company

While the steps we’ve detailed can handle most woodlice issues, there might be situations where professional help becomes necessary. If you’ve diligently applied these methods and still find yourself battling a persistent woodlice infestation, it might be time to call in the experts. This is particularly true if you notice woodlice settling in damp or humid areas throughout your home or if you’re seeing them “all over the place” – these are signs of a severe infestation that may require professional attention.

Eradi Control pest services prove particularly useful when dealing with infestations in hard-to-reach places, like woodlice that have infiltrated your guttering or other inaccessible areas of your home. Eradi Control brings specialised knowledge and tools to the table, allowing us to tackle even the most stubborn infestations. We can offer tailored advice on preventing future problems and implement targeted control measures to eliminate existing woodlice populations.

While it may seem like an additional expense, professional pest control can save you time, effort, and frustration in the long run, especially when dealing with a severe pest infestation or recurring issues with harmful pests.

Summary

We’ve journeyed from identifying these little crustaceans and understanding why they’ve chosen your home to implement both immediate and long-term solutions. From simple cleaning and vacuuming to setting traps and using natural repellents, we’ve covered a range of DIY methods to tackle existing infestations. We’ve also delved into crucial preventative measures, including reducing moisture levels, sealing entry points, removing attractants, and improving drainage around your home.

Remember, the key to successful woodlice control lies in a holistic approach. While each step is effective on its own, combining these methods creates a powerful defence against these persistent pests. By maintaining a dry, clean environment and eliminating potential entry points and attractants, you’re not just solving an immediate problem – you’re creating a long-term solution that will keep your home woodlice-free for years to come. And if, despite your best efforts, you find yourself facing a severe infestation, don’t hesitate to call in Eradi Control. With patience, persistence, and the knowledge you’ve gained from this guide, you’re well-equipped to reclaim your home from woodlice and maintain a pest-free living space.

Frequently Asked Questions