How to Get Rid of Pillbugs

Pill bugs are also called 'roly-poly' because they can form themselves into a tight ball shape and then roll from place to place. Pill bugs need moisture therefore they will stay under damp objects during day and move around in the evening when the temperature drops. These bugs feed on organic matter and young plants along with the roots. They are gray and have seven pairs of legs, and when fully grown they are about ¼” long with a convex shape but flat underneath. Inside the house they would be in the moist areas like your basement.

Step 1: Remove Objects that Hold Moisture

Any objects that hold moisture inside or outside your home should be disposed off. Clean out grass clippings, rocks, wood debris or piled up leaves. Clear the outside of your home from all those objects that might provide shelter and protection to the pill bugs. Take out the trash immediately and get rid of animal droppings in your yard. Any firewood that you need should be stored away from your house in a dry place, preferably above the ground.

Step 2: Insecticides are Effective

There are various insecticides available specially to get rid of house bugs, including pill bugs. Great care should be taken to wear protective gear when handling insecticides so no untoward incident takes place. These chemical solutions are toxic and great care should be taken that your skin doesn’t get in contact with them. Keep your pets away from there while you spray since it can poison them. To control pill bugs you need the following types of insecticides are organic insecticides, liquid insecticides or aerosol insecticides. Special care should be taken when applying the insecticides so that you use the appropriate one.

Step 3: Seal All Entrances Well

Seal the entry points of the pill bugs to your home and you would have the problem tackled. Seal the windows and doors leading out, also the cracks and crevices and spray with any of the appropriate insecticide mentioned provided proper safety is observed with gear and use. Spray with a hand sprayer and a pinpoint nozzle all over the openings and cracks, in the basement and crawl spaces where the pill bugs might be hiding.

Step 4: Apply Diatomaceous earth and/or Slug Bait

Diatomaceous earth is great for getting rid of pill bugs. It harms the bugs cuticles and dehydrates them, finally killing them. It is unsafe around pets so be careful with its use.

Slug bait works well with pill bugs. Put some Sluggo in the affected area and observe how the pill bugs are drawn out. Dispose off the bugs outside your house and also get rid of the bait.

Step 5: Dry your Basement and Crawl Areas

Pill bugs are attracted to the basement of any house because that has the most moisture. Air your basement well and remove all extra items that are not needed and that might provide hiding places for the pill bugs. Spray with any of the appropriate sprays and repeat once a month.  Seal the basement windows, making sure you look for any cracks and crevices that needs fixing. Clean and vacuum your carpets and rugs because they tend to attract dirt and moisture. Keep your house clean and dry and chances are these bugs will not visit you.