How to Keep Away Lizards

Lizards often slip into homes through tiny cracks and gaps. The first step in keeping them out is to carefully inspect your home for any potential entry points. Check around doors, windows, and baseboards, and use caulk or weather stripping to seal up any cracks or holes. Don’t forget to look for gaps around pipes or vents—these are common places where lizards might sneak inside. Sealing these openings not only keeps lizards out but also helps to prevent other pests from entering, which could otherwise attract lizards.

Lizards are highly sensitive to strong odors, and garlic and onion are two scents they particularly dislike. To use this natural deterrent, simply place slices of garlic or onion in areas where you’ve seen lizards, such as windowsills, corners, or near doors. The pungent smell will help keep them away without the use of harmful chemicals. For best results, replace the slices regularly to maintain the strength of the odor. This method is easy, cost-effective, and safe for households with children and pets.

Lizards are attracted to moist environments, so reducing humidity inside your home is key. You can use a dehumidifier to keep the air dry, especially in areas like basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Make sure to fix any leaks and avoid leaving water standing in sinks or pet bowls. Proper ventilation is also crucial—open windows when cooking or showering to let moisture escape. By reducing humidity, you not only deter lizards but also create an environment that is less attractive to other pests that lizards feed on, such as insects.

Even a small gap under a door can be an open invitation for lizards. Installing door sweeps is an easy and affordable way to close off this common entry point. These strips attach to the bottom of your doors, creating a seal that keeps lizards and other pests outside where they belong. Door sweeps also help with energy efficiency by preventing drafts, making this a multi-purpose home improvement. Regularly check and maintain the door sweeps to ensure they remain effective over time.

Essential oils aren’t just for aromatherapy—they can also help keep lizards at bay. Lizards are repelled by the strong smells of peppermint, eucalyptus, and lemongrass. To create a natural lizard repellent, mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture around windows, doors, and any other areas where lizards might enter. Reapply the spray every few days, especially after cleaning or if the scent diminishes. This solution is not only effective but also adds a pleasant fragrance to your home.

Lizards are drawn to porches and patios because outdoor lights attract insects, their primary food source. To make these areas less appealing, consider using yellow or amber lighting, which is less likely to attract bugs. You can also use motion-sensor lights that only turn on when needed, reducing the overall insect activity around your home. Additionally, keeping the porch area clean and free of clutter will reduce hiding spots for lizards, further discouraging them from lingering near your entryways.

Naphthalene balls (or mothballs) are a strong deterrent for lizards due to their pungent smell. However, they should be used with caution, especially in homes with pets or children. Place them in areas that are out of reach, such as under sinks or behind appliances, to safely keep lizards away. It’s important to regularly check these areas to ensure the naphthalene balls are still effective, as their potency can decrease over time. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines when using them.

Spicy pepper sprays are another effective way to deter lizards. You can make a simple pepper spray by mixing hot sauce or cayenne pepper with water. Spray this solution in areas where you’ve noticed lizards, such as along baseboards, around windows, and near doors. Be sure to reapply regularly, especially after cleaning or when the scent begins to fade. This method is an excellent choice for those who prefer a natural, chemical-free approach to pest control, and it’s easy to make with ingredients you likely already have at home.

Peacock feathers can be an unusual but effective deterrent for lizards. It’s believed that lizards are frightened by the sight of the feathers, possibly mistaking them for predators. Place a few peacock feathers in areas where lizards are often seen, and they may choose to stay away. This method is simple and decorative, adding a unique touch to your home while serving a practical purpose. However, be mindful of where you place the feathers to ensure they remain effective and are not disturbed by other household activities.

Lizards love to hide in cluttered spaces, so keeping your home organized is an important part of lizard-proofing. Make sure to regularly clean and declutter areas like kitchen cabinets, storage rooms, and closets. Store food in sealed containers, and promptly clean up crumbs and spills to avoid attracting both lizards and their insect prey. By maintaining a tidy and organized home, you reduce the likelihood of lizards finding a place to hide, making it easier to keep them out for good.

If you find that lizards are still managing to get inside, you can set up a simple trap using cardboard and sticky glue. Place the traps in areas where you’ve seen lizards, such as along walls or near windows. Once caught, you can safely release the lizard outside. This method is humane and doesn’t require harmful chemicals. Be sure to check the traps regularly to avoid any harm to the lizards and to maintain their effectiveness. This approach is ideal for those who want a non-lethal way to manage lizard intrusions.

Certain plants, like lemongrass and pencil trees, are known to repel lizards. Consider planting these around the perimeter of your home, especially near entry points like doors and windows. Not only will these plants help keep lizards away, but they can also add beauty and fragrance to your garden. Additionally, these plants can provide shade and create a more pleasant outdoor environment, making your home less appealing to lizards while enhancing your landscape.

Overwatering your garden can create a moist environment that attracts lizards. To prevent this, be mindful of how much you water your plants. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, and avoid watering in the late evening when the ground is cooler and more likely to retain moisture. Proper watering techniques not only help keep lizards away but also promote healthier plants, reducing the need for pesticides and other treatments that could inadvertently attract lizards.

Keeping lizards out of your home is a team effort. Make sure everyone in your household knows the best practices for keeping lizards away, such as closing doors quickly, keeping food covered, and cleaning up after meals. The more everyone contributes, the more effective your lizard-proofing efforts will be. Consider creating a checklist or routine that everyone follows to ensure consistency and to address any potential issues before they become a problem.

If you have pets like cats, they can be a natural deterrent for lizards. Cats are instinctive hunters and may help keep the lizard population in check around your home. Just be sure to supervise outdoor cats, as they can also impact local wildlife. Additionally, providing your cat with plenty of indoor entertainment can help keep them engaged and less focused on hunting, reducing the likelihood of them bringing lizards into your home.