Earwigs are the definition of creepy crawlies, scuttling around with their long pincers and rapid movements. Thanks to old myths, many people believe these insects burrow into human ears—but that’s nothing more than folklore. While their appearance might be unsettling, earwigs are generally harmless to humans. However, if you’re noticing them in your home or garden, it could be a sign of a growing infestation.

Do Earwigs Bite?

Technically, earwigs don’t bite. Those intimidating pincers, or cerci, are primarily used for defense and capturing prey. If an earwig feels threatened, it may pinch, but it’s not venomous or dangerous. The worst it can do is cause mild irritation or redness, but it won’t break the skin. If your child claims to have been bitten, another bug—such as a spider or beetle—might be the real culprit.

Why Are Earwigs in Your Home?

Earwigs love damp, dark spaces. If they’ve made their way inside, they’re likely searching for shelter from extreme temperatures or moisture. Here are some common attractants:

• Moisture – Leaky pipes, basements, and bathrooms provide the perfect humid environment.
• Decaying Matter – Earwigs feed on rotting wood, leaves, and organic debris.
• Other Insects – These opportunistic feeders prey on smaller bugs.
• Mulch & Leaf Piles – They often hide in moist garden beds and plant debris.

Signs of an Earwig Infestation

Since earwigs are nocturnal, spotting them during the day can be tricky. However, these warning signs may indicate an infestation:

• A Foul, Musky Smell – Earwigs release an odor when they feel threatened.
• Tiny, Black Droppings – Their excrement may appear in basements, kitchens, or near food sources.
• Damaged Plants – Small holes or ragged edges on leaves could mean earwigs are feeding.
• Frequent Sightings – If you’re seeing multiple earwigs in dark, damp areas like under furniture or near drains, you likely have a problem.

How to Get Rid of Earwigs Indoors

If earwigs have invaded your home, take these steps to eliminate them:

1. Eliminate Moisture
   • Fix leaky pipes and improve ventilation.
   • Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.
2. Seal Entry Points
   • Close cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundation walls.
   • Use caulk and weather stripping to block entryways.
3. Clean Up Indoors
   • Sweep and vacuum floors to remove food crumbs.
   • Store food in sealed containers.
   • Take out the trash regularly.
4. Use DIY Traps
   • Rolled-Up Damp Newspaper – Earwigs crawl inside overnight; dispose of it in the morning.
   • Soy Sauce & Vegetable Oil Trap – The scent attracts them, and the oil drowns them.
   • Sticky Tape – Place near baseboards and doorways to catch stragglers.

How to Control Earwigs in Your Garden

While earwigs help break down decomposing material and control smaller pests, too many can damage your plants. Here’s how to keep their population under control:

1. Remove Hiding Spots
   • Clear away woodpiles, leaf piles, and old plant debris.
   • Avoid placing mulch too close to your home’s foundation.
   • Turn over logs and rocks to expose and eliminate earwigs.
2. Encourage Natural Predators
   • Birds, frogs, and toads naturally reduce earwig populations.
   • Install bird feeders or small water sources to attract them.
3. Use Diatomaceous Earth
   • Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around plants to dehydrate and kill earwigs.
4. Apply Natural Repellents
   • Neem oil disrupts insect growth, making it harder for earwigs to thrive.
   • Essential oils like peppermint, cinnamon, and eucalyptus act as natural repellents.

Preventing Future Earwig Infestations

The best way to avoid another earwig invasion is to make your home and garden less appealing to them:

• Keep Indoor Spaces Dry – Repair leaks, wipe down damp areas, and use a dehumidifier.
• Store Firewood & Mulch Away from the House – Keep them at least 5-10 feet from your home’s foundation.
• Improve Drainage – Make sure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your house.
• Limit Outdoor Lighting – Earwigs are drawn to light, so turn off unnecessary exterior lights at night.

When to Call Pest Control

If earwigs keep appearing despite your efforts, it may be time to call a professional exterminator. A pest control expert can assess the severity of the infestation and apply targeted treatments to remove them safely.

Final Thoughts

Although earwigs may look unsettling, they are mostly harmless to humans. They don’t bite, sting, or carry diseases, but their presence often signals excess moisture or food sources. By eliminating these attractants and using effective pest control methods, you can keep your home and garden free from these unwelcome guests. If the problem persists, professional pest control can offer a long-term solution.