Almost everyone can agree that the sight of a slimy creature slithering across the ground is enough to elicit a visceral response. It’s no surprise, then, that handling slims (also known as slugs and snails) is an uncomfortable task for many people.

However, whether you’re a gardener, an animal lover, or simply someone whose property is infested with slims, learning how to handle them is an important skill.

Fortunately, there are several easy strategies you can use to make the process as painless as possible.

Strategy 1: Wear Gloves

One of the simplest and most effective strategies for handling slims is to wear gloves. This is particularly important if you have sensitive skin or are worried about getting slime on your hands.

Garden gloves or any disposable gloves will work just fine.

When wearing gloves, be sure to handle the slims gently, using as little pressure as possible to prevent damaging their delicate bodies. Take care when handling slims with shells, as they can be particularly sensitive to pressure.

You should also avoid squeezing them too tightly, as this can cause them to release more slime than normal.

Strategy 2: Create a Trap

If you don’t want to handle the slims at all, you can try creating a trap to catch them. This is a particularly effective strategy if you’re dealing with a large number of slims and don’t want to go through the process of catching them one by one.

To create a trap, place a shallow dish or pan in the affected area and fill it with beer or sugar water. The slims will be attracted to the liquid and will crawl in, where they will subsequently drown.

This method can be very effective, but be sure to empty the trap regularly to prevent a buildup of slime and other unwanted substances.

Use Salt: Strategy 3

If you want to eliminate slims without having to handle them at all, using salt is a simple and environmentally friendly option. Salt will cause slims to dehydrate and die, making it a quick and effective way to rid your property of these creatures.

To use salt, simply sprinkle it on the affected area or directly on the slims themselves. Be sure to use a generous amount of salt to ensure that it is effective.

However, be mindful of the fact that salt can also harm grass and other plants, so use it sparingly if you’re concerned about this.

Strategy 4: Use a Natural Deterrent

Finally, if you want to discourage slims from coming onto your property in the first place, using a natural deterrent is a great option. There are several options to choose from, ranging from crushed eggshells to copper tape.

Crushed eggshells are a particularly popular option, as they are easy to come by and safe for the environment. Simply crush the eggshells and scatter them around the area you want to protect.

Slugs and snails will avoid crossing the shells, as the sharp edges can be uncomfortable or painful for them.

Conclusion

Handling slims may never be a pleasant experience, but with the right strategies, it can be a relatively straightforward process.

By wearing gloves, creating a trap, using salt, or using a natural deterrent, you can effectively manage the slims on your property without causing undue harm to the creatures themselves.