Earwigs, with their ominous-looking pincers, often find their way into homes and gardens, causing discomfort and potential damage to plants. Though they are not dangerous to humans, their presence can be unsettling. If you want to learn how to get rid of earwigs, this guide will provide uncommon yet effective methods to eliminate them completely.

Understanding Earwigs: Why Are They Invading?

Earwigs thrive in damp, dark spaces and are drawn to moisture, shelter, and food sources like decaying plants and small insects. Identifying what attracts them is key to successfully implementing how to get rid of earwigs in your house fast and preventing future infestations.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs in Your House Fast

If earwigs are appearing indoors, act quickly using these unique strategies:

1. Reduce Indoor Moisture

• Place moisture absorbers like charcoal briquettes or silica gel packs in damp areas.

• Improve air circulation by using exhaust fans and dehumidifiers.

• Dry wet floors, kitchen sinks, and bathroom corners regularly.

2. Block Their Entry Points

• Seal tiny cracks and crevices with silicone caulk.

• Use copper mesh or steel wool around pipes and vents to deter entry.

• Install self-closing door sweeps to keep them from sneaking in.

3. Utilize Natural Repellents

• Cedarwood chips or cedar oil around doorways repel earwigs effectively.

• Cinnamon powder sprinkled along baseboards discourages their presence.

• A garlic-infused spray (blend garlic cloves with water) can act as a natural deterrent.

4. Set Unique Traps

• Rubbing Alcohol & Water Trap: A mix of rubbing alcohol and water in a shallow dish attracts and kills them.

• Molasses & Water Trap: A bowl with molasses and water lures earwigs, trapping them inside.

• Petroleum Jelly Barrier: Apply petroleum jelly around plant pots or window frames to prevent climbing.

5. Keep Indoor Areas Tidy

• Sweep and vacuum corners where they might hide.

• Store newspapers, cardboard, and damp fabrics in airtight containers.

• Dispose of old wooden furniture or logs that can harbor them.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs in House for the Long Term

If earwigs persist, try these additional long-term tactics:

• Set up UV light bug traps to attract and eliminate them.

• Apply food-grade diatomaceous earth along baseboards and entryways.

• If necessary, seek help from professional exterminators.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs in the Garden

Earwigs can be both beneficial and destructive in the garden. If their numbers grow too large, follow these uncommon but effective control measures:

1. Modify Garden Conditions

• Use pea gravel instead of mulch to reduce damp hiding spots.

• Trim overgrown plants to allow more sunlight and reduce moisture levels.

• Rotate mulch regularly to keep it dry and less attractive.

2. Encourage Natural Predators

• Welcome chickens or ducks to your garden, as they eat earwigs.

• Introduce parasitic nematodes that naturally control their population.

• Create a bird-friendly environment to invite insect-eating species.

3. Alternative Organic Insecticides

• Spray fermented rice water on plants to deter earwigs.

• Apply a baking soda and sugar mix in garden beds.

• Use a hot pepper spray (blend hot peppers with water) on leaves.

4. Unique Traps for the Garden

• Place empty tuna cans filled with beer at ground level to attract and trap them.

• Leave out banana peels overnight; earwigs love them and can be collected in the morning.

• Use corrugated cardboard strips in garden beds as hiding places, then discard them daily.

5. Adjust Watering Practices

• Switch to drip irrigation to keep soil drier at the surface.

• Water plants in the morning instead of the evening to avoid damp conditions overnight.

• Ensure good drainage to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

How to Prevent Earwigs from Returning

After successfully removing earwigs, follow these steps to keep them from coming back:

• Keep your environment dry by improving ventilation and fixing leaks.

• Seal all potential entry points with caulking and weather stripping.

• Maintain a clutter-free yard by regularly removing leaves, logs, and garden debris.

• Use barriers such as diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells around plants and doorways.

Conclusion

Earwigs can be a persistent nuisance, but with these unique and effective strategies, you can confidently learn how to get rid of earwigs and prevent them from coming back. Whether they’re in your home or garden, a combination of natural repellents, homemade traps, and environmental modifications will keep your space earwig-free. If the infestation continues, professional pest control services can provide additional assistance.