Rolly pollies, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, are small, harmless creatures that often wander indoors in search of moisture and shelter. While they play a vital role in breaking down organic matter outdoors, their presence inside your home can be an unwelcome nuisance. Understanding how to get rid of rolly pollies inside the house is essential to maintaining a clean, pest-free living space.
These critters thrive in damp environments and are commonly found in basements, bathrooms, or other areas with high humidity. They enter homes through cracks, gaps under doors, or unsealed windows. While they pose no direct threat to humans or pets, an infestation can indicate underlying issues like excessive moisture or poor sealing.
Fortunately, removing and preventing rolly pollies from invading your home doesn’t require extensive effort. By addressing moisture problems, sealing entry points, and using simple natural remedies, you can effectively eliminate these pests and prevent future invasions. Whether you’re tackling a few stragglers or a larger infestation, learning how to get rid of rolly pollies inside the house will help you reclaim your space and keep your home comfortable and pest-free.
Understanding Rolly Pollies and Their Behavior
The primary reason rolly pollies enter your home is their need for moisture. These creatures rely on damp environments to survive, as their bodies are prone to dehydration. Areas such as basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens often provide the ideal conditions they seek. Leaky pipes, poor drainage, or even potted plants can attract these pests and sustain their presence inside your home.
Shelter is another factor that draws rolly pollies indoors. Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rains or intense heat, often drive them to seek refuge. Once inside, they tend to congregate in dark, undisturbed corners where they can remain hidden and protected.
While rolly pollies are harmless to humans and pets, their presence often signals underlying issues in the home. Excessive moisture, cracks in the foundation, or unsealed windows and doors can make your home vulnerable to not only pill bugs but other pests as well.
To effectively manage a rolly polly invasion, it’s essential to address these root causes. Eliminating sources of moisture, sealing entry points, and maintaining a clean environment are key steps in preventing intrusion. By understanding the habits and needs of rolly pollies, you can take proactive measures to ensure your home remains a dry, pest-free sanctuary while allowing these creatures to continue their beneficial role outdoors.
Why Do Rolly Pollies Enter Homes?
Moisture Attraction
Rolly pollies thrive in damp environments, making moisture one of the primary reasons they invade homes. Areas with leaky pipes, basements with poor ventilation, or spots prone to water accumulation are particularly attractive to these critters. Moisture not only provides them with a source of hydration but also creates the ideal conditions for their survival. Homes with persistent dampness or water leaks are more likely to experience an influx of pill bugs, especially during rainy seasons. Addressing moisture issues by fixing leaks, improving drainage, or using dehumidifiers can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation.
Shelter Needs
Extreme weather conditions often drive pill bugs indoors as they seek shelter. During the winter months, rolly pollies may migrate into homes to escape freezing temperatures, looking for warmth and safety. Conversely, in the heat of summer, they may invade cool, shaded areas inside to avoid dehydration. Once inside, they tend to gather in dark, undisturbed corners such as under furniture, near storage boxes, or behind appliances. Recognizing these behavior patterns allows homeowners to take proactive measures, such as sealing off potential hiding spots and maintaining stable indoor temperatures, to discourage their entry.
Accessible Entry Points
Pill bugs enter homes through small cracks, gaps under doors, or unsealed windows. These tiny access points can often go unnoticed, yet they provide an open invitation to rolly pollies seeking shelter. Foundations with cracks, damaged weather stripping, or improperly sealed vents and utility openings are particularly vulnerable. Regularly inspecting and sealing these entry points with caulk, weather stripping, or door sweeps can create a strong barrier against these pests. Ensuring that your home is well-sealed not only prevents rolly pollies but also helps keep other pests at bay, making it a worthwhile investment in home maintenance.
Natural Methods to Remove Rolly Pollies
Diatomaceous Earth Application
Diatomaceous earth is a highly effective natural remedy for dealing with rolly pollies. This fine, powdery substance is made from fossilized aquatic organisms and works by dehydrating pill bugs upon contact. To use it, sprinkle a light layer of diatomaceous earth around areas where you notice significant activity, such as near baseboards, windows, or other entry points. Ensure the powder remains dry, as moisture reduces its effectiveness. While safe for humans and pets, it is best to wear a mask during application to avoid inhaling the fine particles. Over time, the diatomaceous earth acts as a persistent barrier, gradually reducing the pill bug population.
Soapy Water Spray
A simple and cost-effective solution for immediate relief from rolly pollies is soapy water spray. To prepare, mix a few drops of dish soap with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and apply the mixture to areas where pill bugs are frequently spotted, such as damp corners, window sills, or beneath furniture. The soapy solution disrupts their outer coating, effectively repelling them and making the treated areas less attractive. This method is ideal for targeting specific areas and can be reapplied as necessary. Soapy water spray provides an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical repellents, ensuring safety for your household.
Using Traps
DIY traps are a practical way to reduce the rolly polly population in your home. One effective method involves using wet cardboard or rolled-up newspapers as bait. Place these traps in locations where you’ve observed significant activity, such as near doorways, behind appliances, or in damp corners. Overnight, pill bugs are drawn to the moisture and shelter provided by the traps. In the morning, collect the traps and dispose of them outside, far from your home. Regular use of these traps can significantly reduce the number of rolly pollies indoors and prevent further infestations when combined with other control measures.
Preventative Measures to Keep Rolly Pollies Out
Fix Leaks and Control Humidity
Excess moisture is one of the primary factors attracting rolly pollies indoors. To address this, begin by inspecting your home for any leaks in plumbing, roofs, or walls and repairing them promptly. Areas prone to dampness, such as basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, may benefit from the use of dehumidifiers to reduce overall humidity levels. Proper ventilation in these spaces is also essential to discourage the buildup of moisture that pill bugs thrive on. By maintaining a dry environment, you significantly reduce the likelihood of rolly pollies seeking refuge inside your home.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Small cracks and openings in your home’s structure provide easy entry points for rolly pollies. Conduct a thorough inspection of walls, baseboards, foundations, and around windows and doors to identify any gaps that need sealing. Use caulk or weather-resistant sealants to close off these openings, paying special attention to areas near the ground level where pill bugs are most likely to enter. Installing weather stripping under doors and around windows can further block entry points and improve your home’s insulation. This proactive measure not only keeps pests out but also enhances energy efficiency in your home.
Cleanliness and Decluttering
A clean and organized home is less inviting to pests, including rolly pollies. Remove clutter and debris, such as cardboard boxes, stacks of paper, or old furniture, that can serve as hiding places. Regularly vacuum floors, particularly in corners and along baseboards where pill bugs may gather unnoticed. If indoor plants are located in problem areas, consider relocating them, as the damp soil can attract rolly pollies. By maintaining cleanliness and minimizing potential habitats, you create an environment that is less conducive to their survival and reduce the chances of future infestations.
When to Call Professionals
- Persistent Infestations: When rolly pollies invade your home in large numbers or consistently reappear despite your best efforts, it may signal a deeper issue requiring professional intervention. Persistent infestations often stem from underlying problems like structural damage, hidden moisture sources, or unaddressed entry points that DIY solutions alone cannot resolve. Consulting with pest control professionals ensures that these issues are thoroughly assessed and properly addressed, preventing further outbreaks.
- Benefits of Professional Services: Pest control professionals bring expertise and tools that are tailored to handle pest infestations efficiently and effectively. They can identify the root causes of the problem, such as unsealed cracks, excessive dampness, or nesting sites that are often overlooked. Beyond immediate treatment, they offer preventative measures to ensure that rolly pollies do not return. Professionals also use specialized treatments and environmentally safe options to manage pests while minimizing the impact on your home and surroundings. Their experience enables them to handle even severe infestations with ease, restoring comfort and cleanliness to your living space.
- Costs of Professional Help: While the cost of professional pest control may vary based on factors like the size of your home and the severity of the infestation, typical charges range from $150 to $300 per treatment. For extensive or recurring issues, some companies offer service plans that include regular inspections and maintenance. Though it may seem like a significant expense, investing in professional services can save time and effort while offering peace of mind. Properly addressing the infestation at its source reduces the likelihood of future problems and the potential costs associated with repeated DIY attempts or structural damage caused by unchecked pests.
Conclusion
Knowing how to get rid of rolly pollies inside the house is essential for maintaining a clean, pest-free environment. By addressing the root causes of their invasion—moisture, shelter, and entry points—you can effectively prevent and manage their presence. Whether using natural remedies, preventive strategies, or professional services, these methods ensure your home remains a comfortable and critter-free space.
FAQ’s
Q. What causes rolly pollies to come inside my house?
A. Rolly pollies typically enter homes in search of moisture, warmth, or shelter. Leaks, damp areas, and open entry points make your home inviting for them.
Q. Are rolly pollies harmful to humans?
A. No, rolly pollies are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or carry diseases but can become a nuisance when they infest indoor spaces.
Q. How can I naturally remove rolly pollies?
A. Use diatomaceous earth, soapy water sprays, or DIY traps to remove rolly pollies naturally. These methods are effective and eco-friendly.
Q. How do I prevent rolly pollies from entering my home?
A. Fix leaks, use dehumidifiers, and seal entry points like cracks and gaps. Regular cleaning and decluttering also help deter these pests.
Q. When should I call pest control for rolly pollies?
A. If DIY methods fail or the infestation persists, it’s best to consult professional pest control services for effective treatment and prevention.