Banish Lizards for Good: 12 Clever Ways to Get Rid of Them

Alessia Rizzo | Posted on August 8, 2024 |

Lizards can be a common problem in many homes, often sneaking into places they are not wanted, particularly in warmer climates. While they help decrease bug populations, most people prefer to keep them out of their homes. There are various efficient strategies for getting rid of lizards.

Why there are lizards in your house?

Lizards in your house can be due to several factors. Recognizing these causes will allow you to address the problem more effectively. Here are some common reasons why lizards may be present in your home:

Presence of Insects: Lizards feed on insects like flies, ants, and mosquitoes. If your home has many insects, it naturally attracts lizards hunting for food.
Warm Environment: Lizards are cold-blooded animals that thrive in warm environments. If your home is warm and humid, it becomes an ideal habitat for lizards.
Open Entry Points: Lizards can enter through minor gaps, cracks, and open doors or windows. Homes with unsealed entry points are more likely to have lizards.
Cluttered Spaces: Lizards choose cluttered locations as hiding spots. Piles of clothes, boxes, or other items can create a safe haven for them.
Outdoor Vegetation: Having plants, shrubs, or gardens close to your house can attract insects, which attract lizards. Lizards may find their way inside while searching for food.
Water Sources: Lizards need water to survive. Leaky pipes, pet water bowls, or other water sources in or around your home can attract lizards.
Lights at Night: Outdoor lights attract insects, and lizards follow the insects. Bright lights at night can attract lizards to your property.
Shelter from Predators: Lizards may seek safety within your home to avoid predators. Lizards are more likely to stay if your home offers safety and shelter.
Pet Food: Pet food can attract insects and lizards. If you leave pet food out, it can become a source of attraction for lizards.
Open Trash Cans: Uncovered trash cans can attract insects and lizards. Ensuring that your trash cans are covered can help reduce the lizard population.
Moisture: Moist areas like basements, bathrooms, or kitchens can attract lizards. Maintaining a dry environment can help keep lizards away.
Natural Habitat Proximity: If you live near natural habitats like forests, parks, or fields, you are more likely to encounter lizards in your home.

Addressing these factors can make your home less attractive to lizards and reduce their presence indoors.

How to get rid of lizards?

If you’re wondering how to get rid of lizards out of your house, here are 12 practical strategies to help you keep these reptiles at bay:

1. Seal Entry Points

One of the first steps in getting rid of lizards is to identify and seal entry points. Lizards can squeeze through tiny cracks and gaps, so inspect your home for potential access points. To seal gaps around doors, windows, and walls, apply caulk or weather stripping. This not only prevents lizards from entering but also keeps other pests out.

2. Maintain Cleanliness

Keeping your home clean is crucial to deterring lizards and effectively getting them out of your house. Vacuum and sweep the floors often, wipe down the counters, and remove trash immediately. Lizards will be less interested in your home if you eliminate food sources. Keep food in containers that can’t be opened, and clean up any spills immediately. If you want to eliminate lizards, you must ensure the area is clean.

3. Use Natural Repellents

Lizards are known to dislike certain scents. You can create natural lizard repellents using everyday household items:

Garlic and Onion: Put garlic pieces or onion slices in places where you see lizards. Lizards may not go into those areas because they smell terrible.
Coffee Grounds: The smell of coffee is unappealing to lizards. Lizards like to hang out in places where used coffee grounds are dusted around.
Chili Powder: Spray your house with chili powder mixed with water. Alternatively, you can leave sachets of dried chili in the corners.

These natural repellents are safe and effective ways to keep lizards at bay.

4. Use Eggshells

Interestingly, the smell of eggs repels lizards. After using eggs, do not discard the shells. After cleaning them, put them in places where lizards often hang out. The scent will deter them from lingering in those spots. This is a simple and natural method to get rid of lizards.

5. Cold Water

If you encounter a lizard, splashing it with cold water can immobilize it temporarily. This allows you to catch the lizard and release it outside. This method is handy for those who prefer a non-lethal approach to lizard removal—wondering how to get a lizard out of your house? Try this humane approach.

6. Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices are a modern solution for lizard control. People can’t hear these gadgets’ high-frequency sound waves, but lizards may find them annoying. Plugging these devices into power outlets in affected areas can create an invisible barrier that deters lizards from entering your home.

7. Use Naphthalene Balls

Naphthalene balls are a well-known chemical deterrent for lizards. Place them in corners and areas where lizards are frequently seen. However, caution is advised if you have pets or children, as these balls are toxic. Always ensure they are placed out of reach. They are an effective lizard repellent, but safety must be a priority.

8. Eliminate Insect Food Sources

Since lizards are primarily attracted to insects, reducing the insect population in your home can effectively keep lizards away. Regularly check for and eliminate any pest infestations. Consider professional pest control services if necessary. By cutting off their food source, lizards will have less reason to stay. This step is crucial in figuring out what kills lizards instantly by removing their food supply.

9. Plant Repellent Herbs

Certain plants are known to repel lizards. Incorporating these into your garden can help keep lizards at bay:

Peppermint: The strong scent of peppermint is unappealing to lizards.
Eucalyptus: This plant also emits a scent that lizards dislike.
Pencil Trees: These can be planted around your home to deter lizards.

Creating a garden with these plants can naturally repel lizards from your property, making it an effective natural lizard repellent.

10. Use Traps

Consider using humane traps if you need to remove lizards already in your home. Lizards can be caught in these traps without getting hurt. Place the traps where lizards are frequently seen, and check them regularly. Once the lizards are caught, let them go outside, away from your house. To get a lizard out of your home, follow these simple steps.

11. Maintain Landscaping

Your yard can also attract lizards if it provides shelter and food sources. Keep your landscaping tidy by:

Trimming overgrown bushes and trees.
Removing standing water that can attract insects.
Clearing debris and clutter where lizards can hide.

Maintaining a neat yard reduces the likelihood of lizards taking up residence.

12. Use Chemical Repellents Sparingly

Chemical repellents can work but should only be used in small amounts and with care. Look for products designed explicitly for lizard control. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider the safety of pets and children in your home. Chemical repellents can kill lizards instantly, but they should be used responsibly.

Successfully Get Rid of Lizards Out of Your Home

Lizards are common in many homes, especially in warmer climates. While they help control insects, most people prefer to keep them out of their living spaces. Understanding why lizards come inside and using preventive measures can keep them away. Seal entry points, clean your home, use natural repellents, and reduce insects. Maintain a tidy yard, use screens, and consider ultrasonic devices. These practical tips will help you enjoy a lizard-free home.