House centipedes can slip into your home in various ways, often looking for just the right conditions to survive. Because they love dark, damp environments, they’re especially drawn to areas with plenty of moisture—basements, bathrooms, and kitchens are popular hideouts. Small cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows or doors, and other tiny openings can serve as convenient entry points, so even a minor crevice can invite them in.

They also seek warmth and shelter, which means you might see them more often when temperatures drop in the fall and winter. Sometimes, they hitch a ride indoors on things like firewood or houseplants, especially if these items have been stored in damp, shaded areas where centipedes already live.
Another big reason they come inside is to hunt other pests. Since house centipedes feed on insects like spiders, ants, and cockroaches, they may follow their prey indoors. Thanks to their ability to sense vibrations and movement, they can track down prey through even the smallest openings.

Once indoors, house centipedes typically stick to dark, humid spots—behind furniture, near plumbing fixtures, or in basement corners. They’re fast movers and can climb walls, so it’s not unusual to spot them in unexpected places. Knowing how they enter your home is the first step in keeping them away; by sealing potential entry points and reducing excess moisture, you can significantly cut down on their visits.