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How to Get Rid of Duff Millipedes

Heather Vecchioni

Duff millipedes are typically found gnawing on mold and fungus under the bark of trees, but they sometimes end up inside houses as well. These small creatures are covered with bristles, have many legs and are relatively harmless, but you probably don't want them crawling around in your house. Duff millipedes are about one-sixteenth to an eighth of an inch long and are often confused with the carpet beetle. Getting them out of your home can prove a bit tricky as, according to the Colorado State University Extension, insecticides are typically no match for the arthropod.

Duff millipedes are often attracted to moisture and are typically found near faucets.
  1. Wipe up any duff millipedes you see with a hot water-soaked sponge or rag. Place them into a resealable sandwich bag or covered container and then toss the bag or container in the trash. Pour boiling water over the bugs after placing them in the bag or container to ensure they're dead, if desired.

  2. Place sticky traps in the areas in which you've seen the duff millipedes. The bugs become stuck to the trap's adhesive when they attempt to walk over it. Simply throw the trap in the trash when it is covered full of the tiny creatures.

  3. Wait for the millipedes to die. Duff millipedes often enter homes in search of moisture, which is why many homeowners spot them near faucets and sinks. The millipedes die in a day or two if they aren't successful in their moisture pursuit. Homeowners then only need to sweep up the millipede carcasses and toss them in the trash.

  4. Vacuum the millipedes. Empty the bag or container once you are finished and toss the contents in the outside trash. Pour boiling water over the bugs if you want to kill them before placing them in the trash.