Most people’s first instinct when spotting a centipede is to reach for a shoe—but you might want to think twice. These often-feared critters actually do more good than harm, acting as tiny, natural pest control agents in your home.

House centipedes—especially the smaller ones with about 20 legs—are incredibly efficient at hunting down unwanted pests like cockroaches, spiders, ants, and even bedbugs. Their presence can help you avoid harsher chemical solutions while keeping your living space healthier.

Unlike other household pests, centipedes don’t spread disease or germs. Their venom is designed for hunting insects, not humans, and any bite they might give is usually harmless—far milder than the risks posed by mosquitoes or fire ants.

Rather than squashing them on sight, try letting centipedes do their job. They’re nocturnal, so you’re unlikely to see much of them anyway, and in the meantime, they’re quietly clearing out bugs while you sleep.

These little predators are fast, precise, and strong for their size—capable of taking down bugs much larger than themselves. That makes them especially helpful when it comes to tougher infestations, like termites.

If the idea of sharing space with them still gives you the creeps, consider steering them toward out-of-the-way areas like basements, attics, or behind furniture. Keep those spots clean and slightly damp to make them more appealing hiding places.

Bottom line: centipedes might look scary, but they’re actually on your side. Letting them stick around might just mean fewer pests—and fewer headaches—for you.