Earwigs have pincers that are known to frighten people away, but their large numbers are more concerning. These pests are occasional invaders that enter homes when their outdoor environment no longer suits their needs. Stopping an infestation before it starts will be easier than fighting an infestation. Check out how you can keep earwigs away from your home.
What Attracts Earwigs?
It’s important to understand why earwigs have invaded. Knowing what attracts them will make it easier to pest-proof your house and yard. Here are a few things that attract earwigs to your home.
Moisture
Earwigs love moisture and seek areas with it. Clogged gutters and damp soil can attract earwigs to your yard. Objects that collect water or areas where water builds in your yard can also be a problem. Earwigs will enter homes looking for moisture and leaky pipes or faucets are great sources of water.
Food
Unfortunately, earwigs aren’t too picky when it comes to food. They eat decaying vegetation including plants, leaves, and fruit. Some earwigs will also eat living plants, which can damage young seedlings. They may eat small insects as well. If you have a garden or even shrubs and bushes, earwigs may visit your yard.
Shelter
Earwigs like dark, damp, and undisturbed environments. Items in your yard, like rocks and mulch, can provide them with the perfect hiding spot. Plants can create shady spots that are prone to stay damp. Piles of firewood and rotting or moist wood can also house earwigs. These pests move indoors to escape harsh weather conditions. They seek shelter in basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
Lights
Earwigs are nocturnal and attracted to light. Your exterior lighting could be leading these pests to your home. It’s not uncommon to find earwigs clustered together on porches, decks, and patios. Brighter lights are more likely to attract earwigs and other pests.
How to Prevent Earwigs
Making your space as uninviting as possible to earwigs is key to keeping them away. Check out a few tips to prevent earwigs in your yard and home.
Eliminate Moisture
Since earwigs thrive in moist environments, keeping things dry is important. Make sure your gutters aren’t clogged. Check for leaky pipes and faucets and repair any you find. Remove items from your yard that collect water like toys and empty flowerpots. Don’t over-water your plants to help keep soil from becoming too wet. You can also use a dehumidifier or fan in your home to prevent moisture build-up.
Keep Your Yard Clean
Keeping your yard free of yard debris will help to deter earwig activity. Remove piles of leaves, grass clippings, and decaying vegetation. Trim back vegetation that could be creating shady and damp hiding spots for earwigs. If you have firewood, store it several feet away from your house.
Seal Entry Points
One of the best ways to prevent earwigs is to make sure they can’t find a way into your home. Check for and seal any cracks or gaps, especially in your home’s foundation. Make sure door sweeps and weather stripping are in good condition. Repair or replace damaged door and window screens. Pay special attention to windows or doors in the basement.
Vacuum
Taking the time to vacuum your home regularly can help get rid of earwigs. This will help to eliminate earwigs you find and their eggs. It can also help to remove any potential food sources that may attract these pests. Just make sure to carefully seal the bag and remove it from your house.
Create a Protective Barrier
Applying a plant-based insecticide spray to the perimeter of your yard can help keep earwigs away. Our Yard Bug Spray kills earwigs on contact while providing you with residual repellency. This acts as a creative barrier helping to deter earwigs. You can also spray common entry points and the perimeter of your home with our Home Bug Spray. It will kill and repel earwigs.
Earwigs may like your home and yard, but that doesn’t mean you have to welcome them. Taking the time to pest-proof your home can save you the headache of an earwig infestation. If pests are bugging you, we’re here to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products.