Earwigs are sneaky little pests that hide in dark, damp corners of your home. You can identify them by their long, slender bodies and pincers at the back. They often hang out in basements, bathrooms, or any spot where moisture builds up. If you see small holes in plants, droppings, or earwigs crawling from under mulch or rocks, it’s likely an infestation. Spotting the problem early helps you tackle it quickly and effectively.

Earwigs are drawn to environments that offer moisture, shelter, and food. They often enter homes through cracks, gaps, or even through doors and windows that aren’t properly sealed. Once inside, they seek out damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or basements, where they can find moisture and organic matter to feed on. Understanding why they come in allows you to take preventive steps, such as managing indoor humidity and securing entry points, to make your home less appealing to these unwelcome guests.

One of the most effective ways to deter earwigs is by controlling moisture. Fix any leaks in your home, especially in the basement or bathroom. Use dehumidifiers in areas that tend to stay damp, and ensure that your home is well-ventilated. Even small amounts of standing water, like those found in plant saucers or under sinks, can attract earwigs. By keeping your living spaces dry and addressing any moisture issues promptly, you can significantly reduce the chances of an earwig infestation taking hold.

To stop earwigs from sneaking into your home, seal off all possible entry points. Check for cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows or doors, and spaces where wires or pipes enter your house. Use caulk or weatherstripping to close these gaps. Adding door sweeps and fixing window screens with holes also helps. A tightly sealed home not only keeps earwigs out but also blocks other pests.

If you prefer to avoid chemical treatments, there are several natural repellents that can help keep earwigs at bay. Essential oils like cedarwood, peppermint, and eucalyptus are effective when diluted with water and sprayed around your home’s perimeter. Diatomaceous earth, a natural powder, can also be sprinkled in areas where earwigs are likely to travel. These methods are not only safe for children and pets but are also environmentally friendly, making them a great first line of defense against earwigs.

You can easily make traps at home to catch earwigs without spending much. One simple trick is to roll up a damp newspaper and leave it overnight where earwigs are active. By morning, you can toss the paper with the trapped bugs. Another option is to mix soy sauce and oil in a shallow dish. The smell attracts earwigs, and they get stuck in the liquid. These traps are quick, easy, and effective indoors and outdoors.

Maintaining a clean and dry yard is crucial in preventing earwigs from getting too close to your home. Remove piles of leaves, mulch, or other organic debris where earwigs like to hide. Trim back any shrubs or plants that touch your home’s foundation, and consider switching to gravel or synthetic mulch, which is less attractive to earwigs. Regularly inspect your garden and flower beds for signs of earwigs, and take action by removing potential shelters to reduce the risk of them migrating indoors.

For more severe infestations, chemical treatments may be necessary. Look for insecticides specifically labeled for earwigs, and always follow the instructions carefully. These can be applied around the perimeter of your home, in cracks and crevices, or directly on areas where earwigs have been spotted. Be sure to keep these products out of reach of children and pets. If you're concerned about environmental impact, consider using baits that specifically target earwigs while minimizing harm to beneficial insects and other wildlife.

If your earwig problem persists despite your best efforts, it might be time to call in a professional pest control service. Experts can assess the situation and recommend a targeted treatment plan to eliminate the infestation effectively. They can also offer advice on long-term prevention strategies. Professional pest control services have access to specialized products and techniques that aren’t available to the general public, making them an invaluable resource when dealing with a particularly stubborn earwig infestation.

Keeping earwigs away for good requires regular maintenance. Check your home often for moisture and seal any gaps where they might sneak in. Keep your yard clean by removing leaves, mulch, and debris, and trim plants touching your home. Continue using natural repellents or traps when needed, and consider scheduling pest inspections to prevent future problems. With a little ongoing effort, you can keep your home earwig-free and comfortable all year long.