What are Earwigs?

Earwigs are small, elongated insects recognized by the pair of forceps-like pincers at the end of their abdomen. They are usually dark brown or black and may have wings, although they rarely fly. Earwigs are nocturnal, hiding in damp, dark places during the day and becoming active at night. They feed on a variety of materials including decaying organic matter, plants, and even other insects. While they are often feared because of their appearance, earwigs are not dangerous to people but can become a nuisance when they invade homes or gardens.

Signs of Earwig Infestation

• Small insects with curved pincers around doors, windows, or basements
• Damage to leaves, flowers, and garden plants, often with irregular holes
• Groups of earwigs hiding under mulch, stones, or damp debris
• Activity at night when lights attract them near patios or doorways
• Presence of earwigs indoors during wet or hot weather

Why They are a Problem

Earwigs are more of a nuisance than a health threat, but they can cause problems in homes and gardens. Outdoors, they damage ornamental plants, vegetables, and flowers by chewing on leaves and petals. Indoors, their sudden appearance can alarm homeowners, especially when they crawl across floors, sinks, or bathtubs. In large numbers, they can invade basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms, becoming difficult to manage without proper control.

Where Do They Come From?

Earwigs thrive in moist, shaded environments and often live in mulch, leaf litter, soil, and under rocks. They enter homes in search of shelter when outdoor conditions become too hot, dry, or wet. Common entry points include:

• Gaps under doors and around windows
• Cracks in foundations and siding
• Vents, drains, and utility openings
• Openings in basements, garages, or crawl spaces

How to Get Rid of Earwigs at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of earwigs in your house, here are some steps you can take:

• Reduce moisture by fixing leaks and improving ventilation in damp areas
• Remove piles of leaves, mulch, and other organic debris near the foundation
• Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and siding
• Use a vacuum to remove earwigs indoors instead of crushing them
• Place sticky traps or rolled-up damp newspaper near suspected hiding areas and dispose of them in the morning

These methods can help temporarily reduce numbers, but long-term solutions often require professional pest control.

Earwigs vs Silverfish

Earwigs are sometimes confused with silverfish due to their similar size and indoor activity. The differences include:

• Earwigs have visible pincers, while silverfish have long, thread-like tails
• Earwigs can damage plants, while silverfish primarily feed on starchy household materials like paper and glue
• Silverfish prefer consistently dry environments, whereas earwigs thrive in moisture

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in effective solutions for earwig infestations. Our team inspects your property to identify entry points and moisture issues, then applies targeted treatments to reduce and prevent infestations. We focus on both interior and exterior protection, ensuring your home or business stays pest free. With our professional approach, you can stop worrying about earwigs and enjoy peace of mind knowing the problem is resolved.