To get rid of earwigs effectively, you can use a combination of natural remedies, traps, and preventive measures:
Natural and Homemade Remedies
- Soapy Water Spray: Mix dish soap with water and spray areas where earwigs are seen. This solution repels and kills them on contact
- Rubbing Alcohol Spray: A 1:1 mixture of rubbing alcohol and water sprayed directly on earwigs kills them instantly by penetrating their waxy coat
- Strong Scents: Use essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, cinnamon, lemon, or place lavender plants near entryways to repel earwigs
- Neem Oil: Safe for plants and pets, neem oil is effective against earwigs and other pests
Traps
- Light Trap: Fill a container with soapy water and place a bright light over it at night. Earwigs attracted to the light will fall into the water and drown
- Soy Sauce and Oil Trap: Mix equal parts soy sauce and vegetable oil in a container with holes in the lid. Earwigs attracted to the fermented smell enter and drown in the oil
Preventive Measures
- Remove Moisture: Earwigs thrive in moist, dark places. Fix leaks, clean gutters, avoid overwatering plants, use dehumidifiers, and install vapor barriers in crawl spaces to reduce moisture
- Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum earwigs and their eggs from infested areas and dispose of the vacuum contents in soapy water to kill them
- Seal Entry Points: Check for and seal cracks, gaps, and vents where earwigs might enter your home
Chemical Options
- Boric Acid Powder: Sprinkle boric acid in cracks and areas of activity, but use with caution around children and pets due to its toxicity
- Commercial Insecticides: If natural methods fail, use pesticides like Ortho® Bugclear™ or other earwig-specific insect killers for lawns and landscapes
By combining these methods—removing moisture, using traps, applying natural repellents, and vacuuming—you can effectively reduce and eliminate earwig infestations in your home and garden
