Earwigs Indoors:
What Drives Them Inside?

Earwigs, also known as pincher bugs, are common insects that are often found in gardens and outdoor areas. However, they can also make their way inside homes, which can be a source of annoyance for many homeowners. In this article, we will discuss what drives earwigs indoors and how to prevent them from invading your home.

What are Earwigs?

Earwigs are elongated insects that range in size from 0.4 to 2 inches in length. They have long antennae and a pair of pincers on their rear end, which they use for defense and to catch prey. Earwigs are primarily nocturnal and feed on a variety of insects, plants, and decaying organic matter. They are not harmful to humans, but their appearance and behavior can be intimidating.

Why Do Earwigs Come Inside?

There are several reasons why earwigs may make their way inside your home:

1. Seeking Shelter

Earwigs are attracted to moist and dark environments, which makes them seek shelter in homes during hot and dry weather or after heavy rainfalls. They can enter through cracks and crevices in doors, windows, and foundations.

2. Searching for Food

Earwigs may also enter homes in search of food. They are omnivorous and will feed on a variety of plant and animal matter, including fruits, vegetables, flowers, insects, and spiders.

3. Attracted to Light

Earwigs are attracted to light sources at night, which can lead them to enter homes through open windows or doors.

How to Prevent Earwigs from Entering Your Home

Preventing earwig infestations requires removing their preferred habitats around your home’s exterior and blocking entry points into your home. Here are some tips:

1. Remove Moisture

Earwigs thrive in moist environments, so be sure to remove excess moisture around your home. Fix leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage, and remove standing water.

2. Declutter Your Yard

Earwigs love to hide in piles of leaves, mulch, and debris. Keep your yard clean and tidy and regularly remove debris.

3. Seal Entry Points

Block entry points by sealing up cracks and crevices in doors, windows, and foundations. Replace damaged weatherstripping around doors and windows.

4. Turn Off Outdoor Lights

Earwigs are attracted to light sources at night, so turn off outdoor lights or use yellow bulbs that are less attractive to them.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs Indoors

If earwigs have already made their way into your home, there are several ways to get rid of them:

1. Traps

Earwig traps can be purchased or made at home using a container filled with vegetable oil or soy sauce. Place the trap near areas where earwigs are commonly found, such as in damp areas or near light sources.

2. Vacuuming

Vacuuming can be an effective way to remove earwigs from your home. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use.

3. Insecticides

Insecticides can be used to kill earwigs indoors but should be used with caution as they may be harmful to humans and pets.

FAQ

Q: Are earwigs harmful to humans?

A: No, earwigs are not harmful to humans but can be a nuisance if they enter your home.

Q: Can earwigs fly?

A: No, earwigs cannot fly.

Q: How do I prevent earwigs from entering my home?

A: Prevent earwig infestations by removing moisture, decluttering your yard, sealing entry points, and turning off outdoor lights.

Q: How do I get rid of earwigs indoors?

A: Use traps, vacuuming or insecticides to get rid of earwigs indoors.

In conclusion, earwigs are common insects that can make their way inside homes in search of shelter, food, and light. Preventing earwig infestations requires removing their preferred habitats around your home and blocking entry points into your home. If earwigs have already invaded your home, there are several ways to get rid of them, including using traps, vacuuming or insecticides.