How To Get Rid of Earwigs: Effective Methods for Your Home and Garden

Earwigs can be an annoying and unsettling pest to deal with. If you’ve found these creepy crawlies in your home or garden, you’re probably wondering how to get rid of earwigs quickly and effectively. Luckily, there are a variety of methods to help eliminate these pests, whether you’re facing an infestation inside your house or in your garden. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to get rid of earwigs in both areas, offering practical and eco-friendly solutions to keep them away.

What Are Earwigs?

Earwigs are small, nocturnal insects typically recognized by their pincers on the back of their abdomen. They thrive in dark, damp areas and are often found hiding in cracks, crevices, or under objects like mulch and leaves. While earwigs don’t pose a significant threat to humans, they can damage plants and become an unwelcome presence in your home. The good news is, getting rid of earwigs is possible with the right strategies.

How To Get Rid of Earwigs in Your House

If you’re dealing with earwigs indoors, it’s essential to act quickly. These pests can move from one part of your home to another, making it crucial to prevent further spread. Here's how you can get rid of earwigs in your house effectively:

1. Seal Cracks and Crevices

Earwigs enter your home through small cracks and gaps. Inspect the walls, windows, doors, and foundation of your house. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any openings. This simple step can prevent earwigs from entering in the first place.

2. Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps are a non-toxic and effective way to catch earwigs. Place the traps near areas where you’ve seen earwigs, such as along baseboards, behind furniture, or near windows. The earwigs will get stuck to the trap, allowing you to dispose of them easily.

3. Reduce Humidity

Earwigs thrive in moist environments. To get rid of earwigs in your house fast, it’s important to lower the humidity in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and basement. Use a dehumidifier to dry out these spaces, making them less attractive to earwigs.

4. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that can help get rid of earwigs. When earwigs come into contact with it, the powder dries out their exoskeletons, eventually killing them. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around areas where you’ve seen earwigs, such as doorways, windowsills, or cracks.

5. Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, like peppermint and eucalyptus, can repel earwigs. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it to areas where earwigs are present. Not only will this help to get rid of earwigs in the house, but it will also leave your home smelling fresh.

How To Get Rid of Earwigs in the Garden

Earwigs in your garden can damage plants by chewing on leaves, flowers, and fruits. If you’re dealing with earwigs in the garden, here are some effective strategies to keep them away.

1. Use Natural Predators

Encourage natural predators like birds, frogs, or certain types of beetles to live in your garden. These creatures can help keep the earwig population in check. You can also introduce nematodes (microscopic worms) to the soil, which will target earwig larvae and prevent them from maturing.

2. Remove Hiding Spots

Earwigs like to hide in damp, dark places during the day. To get rid of earwigs in the garden, remove piles of leaves, mulch, and any other debris where they can seek shelter. Regularly rake the garden beds and prune overgrown plants to minimize hiding places.

3. Trap Them with Containers

A simple way to get rid of earwigs in your garden is by setting up traps. Place rolled-up newspapers, old cardboard tubes, or shallow containers with a bit of oil inside near infested plants. The earwigs will crawl in for shelter, and you can easily remove them in the morning.

4. Use Homemade Repellents

Spray a mixture of water and a few drops of dish soap around your garden. The soap will irritate the earwigs and help keep them away. You can also try garlic or citrus-based sprays to deter earwigs, as they dislike strong scents.

5. Limit Watering

Earwigs are attracted to moisture, so watering your garden in the evening or at night can create an inviting environment for them. Try watering in the early morning, allowing the soil to dry out during the day and reducing moisture levels in the garden.

Preventing Future Earwig Infestations

Once you’ve successfully gotten rid of earwigs, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are a few tips to keep your home and garden earwig-free:

• Keep your home dry: Regularly check for leaks or areas of high humidity in your home, particularly in basements and bathrooms.
• Seal entry points: Ensure all cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior are sealed to prevent earwigs from entering.
• Maintain your garden: Regularly clean up fallen leaves, debris, and mulch in your garden to reduce hiding spots for earwigs.
• Keep your plants healthy: Healthy plants are less likely to attract earwigs. Make sure they’re well-maintained and free from pests.

Conclusion

Earwigs can be a nuisance, but knowing how to get rid of earwigs in your house and garden is the first step to regaining control of your space. Whether you're dealing with earwigs indoors or outdoors, there are various methods you can use to eliminate them quickly and effectively. By sealing entry points, using traps, and reducing moisture, you can keep your home and garden free of these unwanted pests. Remember, prevention is key—taking proactive steps will ensure your space remains earwig-free long-term.