How to Get Rid of Earwigs
Although they look quite intimidating, earwigs aren’t really a threat to humans. They have a pincer that protrudes from their abdomen that looks like it could hurt but it’s not strong enough to cause any pain to humans.
Luckily, it does not excrete any poison or venom to cause stinging and pain even if it would bite. Still, when we see these scary-looking insects racing about, the first thing we wonder is how to get rid of earwigs.
What Is an Earwig?
An insect commonly found in the United States, there are over 20 different species of earwigs that live here, although there have been over 1,500 species documented. Most have wings but they prefer to crawl and 
burrow in the damp ground.
When threatened, they emit a foul-smelling liquid. There is an ancient superstition that earwigs crawl into a human’s ears when they are sleeping but there is no evidence of this.
Where Do Earwigs Live?
It’s uncommon to find an earwig in the home. These insects prefer damp conditions and when found in a home, it’s usually because they were brought in by accident or outside conditions have turned unfavorable. You’ll be happy to know that they don’t survive well indoors because of a lack of food.
The earwig thrives in dark and damp places and will often lay their eggs in the same type of space. Have you ever picked up large rocks from your yard or even a wet rug from your porch and seen these “pincher bugs” underneath?
What Do Earwigs Eat?
Earwigs eat decaying vegetation such as dead leaves and other dying plants that are found under mulch and garden stones. Some earwigs eat other insects for food. When the conditions are right, earwigs can attack plants in your garden.
How to Get Rid of Earwigs
Earwigs aren’t a huge problem indoors and the best way to make sure they don’t become a problem is by controlling any moisture around your home. Clean up piles of dead leaves or other types of vegetation that may be just laying around the exterior of your home.
You should seal any crevices and cracks on the exterior of your home. Insecticide can be used around the foundation. Target any areas where earwigs could congregate. It’s best to apply the insecticide later in the day, right before dusk as earwigs are nocturnal and come out to eat in the dark.
Recommended Insecticides
It’s important to know which insecticides can be used for edible plants if you are having a problem with earwigs in your vegetable garden. Read the label on all pesticides before applying. The treatment for earwigs include these pesticides:
- Permethrin
- Esfenvalerate
- Azadirachtin
- Bifenthrin
- Carbaryl
- Pyrethrins
- Malathion
- Diatomaceous earth
One of the main methods to control earwigs is by trapping. You can make your own traps using a small can, such as a tuna can and filling it with a half inch of fish oil to attract the earwigs. Put these traps out at night near where you see them outdoors.
The following day, you can either dump them in a bucket of soapy water or place them in a plastic bag and crush them. Continue doing this until you no longer see them.
If you see them in your home, simply vacuum them up or sweep them up and kill them. They pose no danger or health hazards.
Prevent Future Problems
You can prevent any problems in the future by eliminating any type of moisture around the home that might attract these insects. If your basement tends to be excessively damp, use a dehumidifier and be sure that no outdoor faucets are leaking.
Get Rid of Earwigs Today
If you want to eliminate earwigs from your home or yard, call us today or contact us for a free estimate. Our specialists will help you to manage earwigs and any other type of pest that may invade your home.