Can Air Fresheners Kill Millipedes?

Millipedes can become a nuisance if they invade homes or gardens in large numbers. To prevent millipede infestations, it is important to keep the environment around your home dry and free of excess moisture. 

So can you use air freshener to kill millipedes?

In this article, we will explore the potential of air fresheners as an effective means of millipede control, as well as alternative methods for keeping these pests at bay

What are millipedes and how do they behave?

Millipedes are small, worm-like insects that are commonly found in damp or humid environments. They are often mistaken for centipedes, but there are several key differences between the two.

Millipedes are generally not aggressive and do not pose a significant threat to humans. However, they can secrete a liquid that can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, so it is best to avoid handling them if possible. 

Can air fresheners kill millipedes? 

While they are often effective at masking bad smells and adding a pleasant aroma to a room, it is not clear whether they can kill millipedes.

It is a common belief that air fresheners can kill insects. Whether they can kill millipedes and centipedes depends on their ingredients. 

Most air fresheners are not specifically designed for this purpose and may only weaken or kill these pests if applied in large amounts. It is more effective to use products specifically designed to control these types of pests.

What to look for in an air freshener to know if  it can kill millipedes and centipedes

Many air fresheners contain a variety of chemicals, including fragrances, solvents, and preservatives. Some of these chemicals may have insecticidal properties, but their effectiveness at killing millipedes is not well established.

One ingredient that is commonly used in air fresheners is p-dichlorobenzene, which is also known as paradichlorobenzene or PDCB. This chemical has a strong, sweet smell and is often used as a moth repellent. However, it is not clear whether it is effective at killing millipedes but can be used as a barrier to millipedes [1]. 

Other chemicals that may be present in air fresheners, such as limonene and linalool, are known to have some insecticidal properties, but their effectiveness against millipedes is not well understood.

In addition to the ingredients in air fresheners, it is important to consider the way that they are used. 

Air fresheners are typically sprayed or dispersed into the air in small amounts, which may not be sufficient to kill millipedes. Even if the chemicals in an air freshener are effective at killing millipedes, it is unlikely that they would be able to penetrate the hard exoskeleton of the insect and reach its vital organs.

There is also some evidence to suggest that millipedes may be resistant to certain types of insecticides[2], including those that are commonly used in air fresheners. This may be due to the protective exoskeleton that millipedes have, as well as their ability to secrete a liquid that helps to repel predators.

Alternative methods for controlling millipedes

If you are dealing with a millipede infestation and are looking for alternative methods of pest control, there are several options available to you. Some of the most effective methods for controlling millipedes include:

Remove habitat and seal entry points

One of the most effective ways to prevent millipedes from entering your home is to remove their habitat and seal any potential entry points. This may include removing leaf litter, compost, or other organic debris from around the foundation of your home, as well as sealing cracks and gaps in the foundation and around windows and doors.

Use natural pest control methods

There are several natural pest control methods that can be effective at controlling millipedes. These methods may include the use of diatomaceous earth, which is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of algae. 

Diatomaceous earth is effective at killing millipedes and other insects by drying out their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Other natural pest control methods may include the use of nematodes, which are small worms that can be introduced into the soil to prey on millipedes and other insects, or the use of essential oils, such as peppermint or eucalyptus, which can repel millipedes and other pests.

Use chemical pesticides

If natural pest control methods are not effective, or if the millipede infestation is severe, chemical pesticides may be necessary. There are several chemical pesticides available that are effective at killing millipedes, including pyrethroids and carbamates. Follow label instructions and use caution when applying chemical pesticides to avoid potential health risks.

Encourage predators

Another option for controlling millipedes is to encourage the presence of natural predators that feed on these insects. Some birds, such as chickadees and wrens, may feed on millipedes, as well as other insects and invertebrates. Encouraging the presence of these birds in your garden or yard may help to control millipede populations.

Bottom Line

While air fresheners may have some insecticidal properties, it is unlikely that they would be effective at killing millipedes.

Alternative methods for controlling millipedes include the removal of habitat and sealing entry points, the use of natural pest control methods, the use of chemical pesticides, and the encouragement of natural predators.

The best approach will depend on the severity of the infestation and the specific circumstances of your home.