How to Chase Lizards out of Your House

The first step in keeping lizards out is to ensure they can’t get in. Begin by inspecting your home thoroughly, looking for small cracks or gaps, especially around windows, doors, and baseboards. Even the tiniest crack can be an entry point for a lizard. Sealing these with caulk or weatherstripping will create a barrier that lizards can’t cross. This proactive measure is essential, not just for lizards, but also for keeping out other pests like insects and rodents. By doing this, you’ll reduce the chances of lizards finding their way inside, making your home more secure and comfortable.

Lizards can easily slip under doors or through open windows, so installing door sweeps and window screens is a practical solution. Door sweeps are an inexpensive and effective way to block gaps under doors, while window screens allow you to enjoy fresh air without inviting lizards inside. It’s important to regularly check these barriers for wear and tear; even a small tear in a screen can become an entryway for a lizard. Ensure that both are in good condition and fit securely to prevent any unwanted visitors. This not only keeps lizards out but also helps maintain the overall energy efficiency of your home.

Lizards are sensitive to certain smells, making natural repellents like eggshells and garlic an excellent choice. Scatter crushed eggshells around entry points or place garlic cloves in areas where lizards are commonly seen. The strong scent will deter lizards from entering your home, and the best part is that these repellents are completely safe and non-toxic. Additionally, these methods are budget-friendly and easy to implement, making them a convenient option for ongoing pest control. You can also combine these with other natural deterrents, like placing naphthalene balls or onion slices, to create a more effective barrier against lizards.

If you prefer a more active approach, you can create a DIY lizard spray using everyday ingredients. Mix chili powder, black pepper, or coffee with water in a spray bottle, and apply it to areas where lizards tend to congregate. This homemade spray is effective in keeping lizards away, and it’s safe to use around your home. It’s a good idea to reapply the spray regularly, especially after cleaning or during rainy seasons when lizards might seek shelter indoors. The pungent aroma of these ingredients is a natural deterrent, and by customizing your mixture, you can adjust its strength based on the severity of your lizard problem.

Lizards thrive in warm environments, so keeping your home cool can make it less appealing to them. Pay special attention to areas where lizards are frequently spotted, such as basements, attics, or sunrooms. Lowering the temperature in these spaces can encourage lizards to find a more suitable habitat elsewhere. Consider using fans or air conditioning to maintain a cooler environment, particularly during the warmer months when lizards are more active. Additionally, avoid creating warm spots near entry points by keeping appliances or electronics that generate heat away from doors and windows, as these can attract lizards seeking warmth.

Lizards are often attracted to homes because they offer a steady food supply—usually in the form of insects. To discourage lizards from taking up residence, it’s important to reduce the insect population in your home. Regularly clean up food crumbs, store food in sealed containers, and use natural insect repellents to keep bugs at bay. With fewer insects around, lizards will have less reason to stick around. You might also consider using insect traps or diatomaceous earth around entry points to further reduce insect numbers. This not only helps with lizards but also creates a cleaner, more hygienic environment overall.

Lizards prefer dark, secluded areas, so keeping your home well-lit can help deter them. Bright lighting in basements, garages, and other often dim areas can make these spaces less inviting for lizards. Additionally, consider using outdoor lighting to keep the exterior of your home well-lit, which can further discourage lizards from approaching. Motion-activated lights can be particularly effective in startling lizards and preventing them from settling in. If you have areas in your home that are difficult to keep well-lit, such as closets or under sinks, consider using battery-operated LED lights or reflective surfaces to brighten those spaces.

For those dealing with a persistent lizard problem, humane traps can be an effective solution. These traps allow you to catch lizards and release them outside without harming them. Place the traps in areas where lizards are often seen, such as along baseboards or near windows. Once captured, gently release the lizard in a suitable outdoor area away from your home. It’s also wise to check the traps regularly to ensure that any captured lizard doesn’t remain in the trap for too long. Humane traps are an excellent option for those who wish to remove lizards without causing them harm, aligning with a more ethical approach to pest control.

If you’re comfortable with the idea, adopting a pet that naturally hunts lizards, like a cat, can help keep them out of your home. Cats are excellent hunters and can deter lizards from entering your living spaces. Just be sure that your pet’s safety and health are prioritized, and monitor their interactions with lizards. While this method can be effective, it’s important to ensure that your pet doesn’t become overexposed to lizards, which could lead to health issues or behavioral changes. Additionally, this approach works best in combination with other deterrents, as it adds an extra layer of protection against lizards.

A clean, clutter-free home is less attractive to lizards. Regularly vacuum, dust, and remove piles of paper or other clutter where lizards might hide. By maintaining a tidy environment, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lizards making themselves comfortable indoors. Pay special attention to areas like closets, under furniture, and around appliances where lizards might find shelter. Decluttering not only helps with lizard control but also makes your home more organized and pleasant to live in. Consider creating a regular cleaning schedule to ensure that these tasks are consistently addressed, further minimizing the chances of a lizard infestation.

Chasing lizards out of your house doesn’t have to be difficult. By sealing entry points, using natural repellents, adjusting your environment, and keeping your home clean, you can effectively and humanely keep lizards out. These methods are safe for both your family and the lizards, helping you maintain a lizard-free home. With a little effort and consistency, you can create a space where lizards are less likely to intrude, allowing you to enjoy a more peaceful and comfortable living environment.