How to get rid of pill bugs inside your house and banish them for good

Though harmless, you won't want a pill bug infestation inside, entomologists warn

All white bathroom with a curved free standing tub in an alcove
(Image credit: BC Designs)

While commonly spotted in harmlessly dwelling in damp dirt or under logs in your yard, pill bugs are an unwelcome visitor inside your home.

As they're primarily attracted to moisture, you might initially spot them in your bathroom or kitchen. They won't cause any damage – but should be removed promptly to avoid an infestation occurring.

Here, we spoke to entomologists for their tips on identifying these common indoor pests and dealing with them effectively, deterring them with natural methods and how to stop their re-entry.

What are pill bugs?

A pill bug on a green leaf

A pill bug

(Image credit: Getty Images / Paul Starosta)

Daniel Baldwin, board certified entomologist at Hawx Pest Control, explains, 'Pill bugs [pictured above], commonly known as roly-pollies, are small, land-dwelling crustaceans that belong to the armadillidiidae family. They are oval shaped and segmented, typically gray or dark brown, and grow to around 0.5 inches long.'

Most uniquely, they are well-known for their ability to curl into a tight ball for protection when threatened, hence the name 'roly-pollies.'

'Pill bugs are harmless, and can be found in moist environments such as under logs, rocks and decaying organic matter,' continues Baldwin. 'They are a common sighting in gardens and not considered an issue in outdoor settings, however they can become pests if they're found within the home.'

Signs of pill bugs inside the house

When it comes to the way these insects are entering your home, pill bugs are one of the pests that can come up through your drains, drawn to the moisture, although this is rare.

Instead, Joe Malinowski, vice president of pest management at Pest Authority, says, 'They will enter homes or buildings at various times of the year through cracks and crevices, mainly around doors and windows that aren't properly sealed.'

Because of this, it's important to seal gaps in windows and doors with some DIY draft-proofing, using caulk or weather-stripping tape, such as XFasten Transparent Window Weather Sealing Tape available at Amazon.

'Pill bugs usually do not survive indoors, due to a lack of moisture and food sources, so a homeowner can usually detect a problem by seeing dead insects around entry points of the home, or in high humidity areas such as shower stalls and laundry rooms,' continues Malinowski.

Nicole Carpenter, president at Black Pest Prevention, adds that pill bugs are typically nocturnal, meaning they can be hard to spot during the day. 'That’s why if you see them moving in the evening, or in your bathroom, it’s a clear sign they’re your new unwanted neighbors,' she warns.

How to get rid of pill bugs, and stop them from returning

1. Reduce moisture

Small bathroom with cream walls and red vanity and mirror

(Image credit: Future)

As pill bugs are attracted to moisture, your first port of call when dealing with these pesky pests should be to reduce your home's humidity.

Pest pro Carpenter advises, 'Use a dehumidifier, repair all leaks in pipes, ensure there is no condensate on your windows, keep the bathroom door open after taking a shower, and always turn on the exhaust fan when bathing.'

You can also use a cheap salt trick to get rid of condensation, by filling bowls with salt, such as the Great Value Plain Salt available at Walmart, and leaving it on your windowsills to absorb moisture.

Outside your home, pest expert Malinowski suggests ensuring all down spouts and flowing freely and effectively moving water away from the home. This might involve cleaning your gutters from the roof, too.

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. Clean up your yard

Front yard boundary

(Image credit: jhorrocks via Getty Images)

It's also crucial to keep up with backyard cleaning, to keep yours clean and clutter free, says entomologist Baldwin.

'Clean up organic debris such as dead leaves, rotting wood or mulch and remove it away from your property. Regularly sweep patios, decking, and under pots (with a broom such as the Yocada Heavy-Duty Broom available at Amazon) which act as an ideal place for pill bugs to hide and live.'

3. Regularly check for gaps

Crack over door

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Ensure you are also conducting regular checks around your home, looking for any cracks, gaps, or holes in walls, windows, and doors.

Entomologist Baldwin explains, 'Pill bugs are small enough to squeeze through tiny gaps, therefore it's important to seal them up as soon as you spot them,' which you can either do yourself or call in pros to take a look, to eliminate the risk of pests from entering.

4. Try natural home remedies

fluted butler kitchen sink undermounted in paneled cream kitsch kitchen with lace curtains, shaker cabinets, brass fixtures and orange marble counters

(Image credit: devOL Kitchens)

You can also employ some natural pest control methods, says Allan Bossel, operations expert at Bed Bug Exterminator.

He advises that these home remedies are often worth a shot:

  • Beer trap: Simply fill a small cup with beer and place it where pill bugs are active. 'Pill bugs are attracted to beer due to its sweet smell,' Bossel explains. 'So, when they crawl in, they'll fall in and drown.'
  • Citrus peel: You can also use orange peel to deter these pests, as well as lemon or lime, placing them around entry points wherever pill bugs are active. 'The citrus scent can help repel them,' says Bossel.
  • DIY garlic solution: Another effective way to get rid of pill bugs is by making a DIY garlic solution. 'Combine minced garlic and water in a spray bottle,' says Bossel. 'Spray the substance around doorways and baseboards to help repel those pesky pill bugs.'

5. Try harsher products

If simple DIY solutions don't work, you can also try:

  • Diatomaceous earth: which is a natural powder made from the fossilized remains of aquatic organisms. 'The razor-sharp silican particles naturally wear through the pill bugs' exoskeleton as they move, causing them to suffer from dehydration and die,' says Bossel. This can be purchased at Amazon.
  • Boric acid: 'Although this method needs a bit more preparation, it's often effective in killing pill bugs,' assures Bossel. 'Mix boric acid (such as Germa Boric Acid Powder available at Walmart) with water and sugar to create a paste. Once the insects ingest it, they'll be poisoned. Be sure not to put it anywhere that can harm bees, though.'
  • Insecticidal sprays: 'Natural sprays using ingredients like neem oil can be effective in holding pill bugs off, or at least keeping them away from your plants,' says Bossel. To use, simply follow the manufacturer's instructions. 'Or, you can make your own homemade bug spray, with warm water, some dish soap, and a few tablespoons of neem oil,' suggests Bossel. 'Just don't spray it on any fruits or veggies you plan on eating. Otherwise it's completely safe.'

FAQs

What smell do pill bugs hate?

Much like the smells ants hate, pill bugs aren't a fan of essential oils, due to their strong scent. This can be anything from cinnamon and citronella, to tea tree and peppermint.

How long do pill bugs live?

While outdoors pill bugs live for up to two years, they can't last longer than two days in dry environments. For this reason, keep an eye out for signs of high home humidity, which could be attracting them inside.


Next, learn how to deal with common winter pest infestations to protect your home from infestation.

News Writer

Ottilie is new to Homes & Gardens, having recently finished a Master's in Magazine Journalism at City, University of London. She produces content for the Solved section on the website, focusing on clever tips and tricks to keep your home beautiful, organized and clean. She also has an undergraduate degree in English Literature and History of Art from the University of Edinburgh, where she developed a love for inspiring interiors and architecture.