Earwigs may look intimidating with their long pincers, but they are primarily garden pests that occasionally make their way indoors. These insects, often called pincer bugs, feed on other insects and various plants, including dahlias, roses, sunflowers, and lettuce. Much like cockroaches, earwigs are nocturnal and prefer to avoid light.
During the daytime, you’ll typically find them in dark, damp environments, such as under rocks, mulch, or woodpiles. If your home has unsealed doors, windows, or small cracks, these pests might sneak inside. While they aren’t harmful to humans, they can cause damage to plants if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are effective ways to keep them out of your home and garden.
How to Keep Earwigs Away
Eliminating Earwigs Indoors
The first step is to address any earwigs that have already made their way inside. Check moist areas like bathroom sinks, kitchen cabinets, and baseboards, as these places mimic their natural outdoor habitat. While you can remove them by hand, trapping them is the most effective way to ensure they’re completely gone.
Try these simple DIY traps:
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Newspaper Trap: Crumple up a piece of newspaper and place it near areas where you’ve seen earwigs. They will crawl inside, seeking shelter. Dispose of the paper in the morning.
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Vegetable Oil Trap: Fill a small cup with vegetable oil. The scent will attract the bugs, and once they crawl in, they won’t be able to escape.
For a more direct solution, use Diatomaceous Earth or Boric Acid powder. These substances are safe for people and pets but will damage the exoskeleton of the earwigs, eliminating them upon contact.
Preventing Earwigs Outdoors
The best way to stop earwigs from entering your home is to eliminate their outdoor hiding spots. Here’s how:
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Encourage Natural Predators: Installing a bird feeder can help attract birds that prey on earwigs.
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Remove Debris: Keep your yard clear of excess leaves, woodpiles, and moisture-retaining materials where earwigs might hide.
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Use Pesticides: Spraying your yard with a mild pesticide can help reduce their population.
By following these steps, you can keep earwigs from invading your home and protect your garden from their damaging appetite!
Call a Professional for Effective Earwig Control
While DIY methods can help, a professional exterminator can provide a thorough, long-term solution to your pest problem. If you’re dealing with an earwig infestation or want to prevent future pest issues, A-ONE is here to help. Contact us today for expert pest control services and keep your home pest-free!
