Have you noticed tiny, grey bugs crawling across your basement floor? They’re likely sowbugs, a common pest in Edmonton homes. They’re especially common in cool, damp areas like basements and crawl spaces. Although they are harmless to people, their presence signals excess moisture or poor ventilation indoors.
Online searches like “how to get rid of sowbugs in basement,” “pill bugs in house,” or “moisture bugs in Canada” are on the rise, and for good reason. Sowbugs thrive in humid environments and often enter through foundation cracks or gaps near windows. They also multiply quickly and remind you of deeper home maintenance issues.
What Are Sowbugs? And Why Are They in Your Basement?
Sowbugs are weird-looking, greyish bugs with hard shells and tiny legs crawling across your basement floor. These pests are often confused with pill bugs or “roly-poly.” But sowbugs don’t roll into a ball when touched. Instead, they scurry away and hide in cracks, under boxes, or along damp walls.
Despite their creepy appearance, sowbugs aren’t harmful. They don’t bite, sting, or damage your home’s structure. But that doesn’t mean they’re welcome in your house.
What They Look Like
Sowbugs are about 1 to 1.5 cm long, oval-shaped, and have a segmented body that looks almost like armour. You’ll usually find them in cool, moist areas like under sinks, crawlspaces, or your basement.
It’s not unimaginable to raise a question in your mind, “Is this a sowbug or a pill bug?” Here’s a quick trick: sowbugs have two small tail-like appendages at the back, while pill bugs do not.
Sowbug Vs Pill Bug: What’s the Difference?
Many homeowners in Edmonton confuse the two, but here’s what makes sowbugs unique:
Sowbugs: Can’t roll up, have tails, prefer very damp environments
Pill Bugs: Roll into a ball, no tails, slightly more tolerant of dry spots
| Feature | Sowbug | Pill Bug |
| Rolls into a ball? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Tail-like appendages | ✅ Yes – two small ones at the back | ❌ No |
| Preferred environment | Very moist, dark, and humid areas | Moist, but can survive in slightly drier spots |
| Common indoor location | Basements, crawlspaces, and under sinks | Flower pots, under logs, occasionally indoors |
| Colour and size | Grey-brown, 1–1.5 cm, flat body | Dark grey to black, 1–1.5 cm, rounder body |
| Behaviour when disturbed | Runs away | Curls up into a ball |
| More likely found indoors? | ✅ Yes (especially in damp basements) | ⚠️ Less common indoors |
Why Do Sowbugs Love Basements in Edmonton Homes?
Sowbugs love basements, especially in places like Edmonton.
But why in your house?
The short answer is that your basement provides exactly what they want: cool, damp, and quiet conditions.
Here’s what makes your home such a hotspot:
- They’re Obsessed with Moisture: Sowbugs need moisture to stay alive. They breathe through gills and toast if the air gets too dry. They gravitate to leaky pipes, damp corners, and humid basement air. If your basement feels too musty, or there’s condensation on the windows or concrete, that’s sowbug heaven.
- Tiny Cracks = Open Doors: They don’t need much space to get in. Even
Hairline cracks in your foundation,
Gaps around window frames, or
Little holes around plumbing lines
can become a welcome mat for sowbugs to crawl through.
- Edmonton’s Weather Drives Them Indoors: When the weather changes quickly, like during spring melt, heavy summer rain, or early cold in the fall, the ground outside becomes too dry or cold for sowbugs. To survive, they move into basements, where it’s cool, dark, and damp.
- Clutter shelters them: Cardboard boxes, old furniture, laundry piles—sowbugs love hiding under anything that stays dark and slightly damp. Add a little mould or organic debris, and it’s a buffet.
Signs You’ve Got Sowbugs in the Basement
Sowbugs might be quiet, but they don’t go unnoticed for long. Here’s how to tell if your basement is hosting an infestation:
- Tiny, grey, oval-shaped bugs crawling on the floor or walls — about 1 to 1.5 cm long, with a segmented, armour-like shell.
- The bugs don’t move quickly or curl into a ball when touched (that’s how you know it’s not a pill bug).
- Two tiny tail-like projections are visible at the bug’s rear end (a distinct sowbug feature).
- They are most active in damp, dark edges, like near floor drains, under sinks, or behind stored items.
- You notice them more at night, especially after suddenly turning on the basement light.
- Dead sowbugs pile up near basement windows, vents, or floor cracks where moisture builds up.
- Mostly, they are found hiding under wet cardboard, firewood, or fabric stored directly on the floor.
- No signs of webbing, frass (insect droppings), or damaged wood, which rules out spiders, termites, or silverfish.
How to Get Rid of Sowbugs in Basement (Step-by-Step)
Once sowbugs settle into your basement, they won’t leave unless you remove what they need: moisture, shelter, and access. Here’s how to do it properly, especially in Edmonton’s damp spring and fall seasons.
1. Dry Out Your Basement
Sowbugs can’t survive without moisture. Start using a dehumidifier to lower humidity levels, and aim for under 50%. Run it regularly during damp months or anytime your basement feels stuffy.
Ensure your dryer vents outside, and fix any condensation buildup on cold water pipes. Moisture is the #1 reason they’re down there.
2. Fix Leaks and Moisture Sources
Sowbugs love damp places, and leaks give them exactly what they need. Check under sinks, near hot water tanks, and around your washing machine for any signs of dripping water or puddles.
If you find any, fix them right away. Wrap insulation around pipes that collect moisture (also known as “sweating”), and make sure your sump pump works like it should. If rainwater is pooling near your home’s foundation, use downspout extensions to move it further away.
3. Seal Entry Points
Sowbugs get in through the smallest openings.
Here’s where to look:
- Cracks in the foundation or basement walls.
- Gaps around windows or where pipes enter the house.
- Unsealed door frames or floor drains.
- Use weatherproof caulk or expandable foam to close these gaps and prevent more from sneaking in.
4. Declutter and Store Items Properly
Sowbugs love messy, damp spaces. Remove anything that holds moisture, like wet cardboard, old newspapers, or fabric that has been sitting too long. Use sealed plastic bins instead of open boxes, and keep storage off the floor if possible. This helps keep sowbugs out and makes cleaning your basement a lot easier.
5. Clear the outside zone
Many sowbugs come from just outside your basement wall. If the area around your foundation is cluttered or damp, they’ll gather there and eventually find their way inside.
Tidy up by:
- Raking away wet leaves, mulch, and soil buildup.
- Moving firewood and compost bins at least 3 feet from the house.
- Trimming back any shrubs or plants that trap moisture near the wall.
6. Try natural repellents
If you want to avoid chemicals, start with natural solutions. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth along basement edges and near entry points. It’s safe for people and pets, but deadly to bugs.
Some homeowners also use essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus, or even place cedar shavings in storage areas. These will not kill sowbugs; they will just discourage them from settling in.
7. Know when to call a pro
If you’ve done all the above and sowbugs are still showing up, a hidden moisture problem or structural issue may need a closer look.
At that point, it’s worth bringing in a pest control expert. A proper inspection can uncover missed entry points, and targeted treatments will clear up the problem quickly, without guesswork.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Sowbugs (Pet- and Kid-Safe Options)
If you’ve got pets, kids, or just prefer to skip chemical sprays, there are safe and effective ways to keep sowbugs out of your basement. These natural methods won’t harm your family, and when used consistently, they can help reduce sowbug numbers or prevent a new infestation from starting.
Diatomaceous earth (DE)
This fine, natural powder is one of the best non-toxic options for pest control. It is made from crushed fossils. DE works by drying out sowbugs once they crawl through it.
Sprinkle it:
- Along baseboards and wall edges.
- Near floor drains or sump pumps.
- Around cracks where you’ve seen activity.
- Use food-grade DE and reapply after vacuuming or if it gets wet.
Essential oils
Some essential oils repel sowbugs without harsh smells or toxins in your home. Peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oils are the most effective.
Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle and mist:
- Behind storage shelves.
- Around the basement door frames.
- In corners where sowbugs may hide.
Repeat every few days to keep the scent strong. While this won’t kill sowbugs, it can make your basement less appealing.
Cedar blocks or shavings
Cedar has natural oils that repel many soft-bodied bugs, including sowbugs. Place cedar chips, blocks, or sachets in storage bins, closets, or behind large furniture in the basement.
This is especially helpful if you remove excess moisture and seal entry points.
Clean and dry storage practices
Even the best natural repellents won’t help much if your basement stays damp or cluttered. Sowbugs thrive where there’s food (decaying matter) and shelter.
Stick to these clean habits:
- Store items in sealed plastic bins, not cardboard
- Keep everything off the floor.
- Avoid leaving damp towels, laundry, or rags in the basement.
- Regularly vacuum to remove organic dust or mouldy materials.
White vinegar spray
Though not as long-lasting as DE or cedar, vinegar can disrupt sowbug activity. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and spray in areas where they gather. It helps break down scent trails and can act as a short-term deterrent.
These methods are safe for kids, pets, and the environment. But remember that natural solutions work best with moisture control and physical prevention. If you still see sowbugs after trying these, it may be time to seek professional help.
When to Call a Professional Sowbug Exterminator in Edmonton
If you’ve done everything right—sealed cracks, reduced moisture, and cleaned up clutter—but sowbugs keep showing up, it’s time to bring in the experts.
Call a professional if:
- Sowbugs keep returning, even after deep cleaning and sealing.
- You can’t locate the source, and bugs appear without an obvious entry point.
- Other pests like centipedes, silverfish, or springtails are showing up too.
- Basement humidity remains high despite using a dehumidifier.
- Dead sowbugs, especially windows or floor edges, pile up around the same spots.
- You’re seeing activity year-round, not just during damp months.
- You want a long-term solution, not temporary fixes.
What a professional will do:
- Inspect your basement, foundation, and exterior to find hidden access points.
- Identify moisture issues or areas with poor ventilation.
- Apply safe, targeted treatments approved by Health Canada.
- Offer custom prevention advice to keep sowbugs from coming back.
- Provide follow-up service if needed for complete peace of mind.
Why Choose Major Pest Control Edmonton
- We are local experts who understand Edmonton’s pest issues and climate.
- Safe, proven treatments approved by Health Canada.
- Thorough inspections to find entry points and moisture problems.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Service guarantee with follow-up if the problem returns.
FAQs
Q: How do I naturally get rid of sowbugs in the basement?
Start by reducing moisture, such as running a dehumidifier, fixing leaks, and improving ventilation. Then remove clutter, seal cracks, and use natural products like diatomaceous earth around baseboards. These changes make your basement less inviting and help control sowbugs without chemicals.
Q: Are sowbugs harmful to humans?
No, sowbugs are not harmful. They don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases. However, they’re a strong indicator of excess moisture in your home. Eventually, if you ignore this, it can attract more serious pests.
Q: What’s the difference between sowbugs and pill bugs?
Sowbugs have tail-like appendages and can’t roll into a ball, while pill bugs can. Both are moisture-loving and often found in basements or gardens. But they behave slightly differently indoors.
Q: How do I get rid of pill bugs in the house using vinegar?
Vinegar can help disrupt scent trails and deter pill bugs. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, and spray around baseboards, entry points, and damp areas. It’s a temporary solution best used alongside proper moisture control.
Q: Why do I have pill bugs or sowbugs in my basement?
They’re there because your basement likely has too much moisture, organic material, and easy access points. These bugs need damp environments to survive and will settle in if your basement provides it.
Q: How can I get rid of potato bugs in the house?
Potato bugs (also known as Jerusalem crickets) are rare indoors but may enter through cracks. Keep your home sealed, dry, and free of food waste or organic debris. If you see them often, professional pest control is recommended.
Q: Are pill bugs in the house dangerous?
No. Like sowbugs, pill bugs are harmless to humans and pets. However, their presence suggests high moisture levels, which can lead to other infestations if not addressed.
Q: Can I get rid of sowbugs in the garden naturally?
Yes. Avoid overwatering, remove mulch buildup, and let the soil dry between waterings. You can also add crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around plant bases to repel them safely.
Q: What are the other names of sowbugs?
Depending on region and context, sowbugs are known by several other common names. Some of the most widely used names are:
- Woodlice
- Moisture bugs
- Basement bugs
- Pillbugs (often confused with, but technically different)
- Roly-poly (commonly used in the U.S.)
- Porch bugs
- Isopods (their scientific group)
- Potato bugs (though this name also refers to unrelated insects in some areas)
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Basement Sowbug-Free
Sowbugs might not be dangerous, but they’re a clear sign that something’s off in your basement, usually, excess moisture, clutter, or small structural gaps. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals to deal with them.
You can keep your basement dry and bug-free with the right mix of prevention (like sealing cracks and lowering humidity), natural repellents, and smart storage habits. And if things get out of hand, professional help is just a call away.
At Major Pest Control Edmonton, we’re here to help you solve and prevent the problem from returning.
For additional insights and resources on ant prevention, check out this detailed guide from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA).