Natural Methods for Getting Rid of Earwigs

Earwigs, also called pincher bugs, are small reddish-brown insects. They have a set of pincers at their rear end to use for defense. Earwigs are scavengers that feed on organic debris. They are commonly found in the garden and can get into your home. Earwigs may try to pinch you, but they cannot sting you or hurt you. You can control earwigs without using harsh chemicals.

Make your own earwig traps. Tightly roll damp newspaper, securing it with rubber bands, twist ties, clothespins or other suitable means. In the evening place the roll in the area that you have seen the earwigs. They are attracted to dampness and will enter the newspaper only to become unable to find their way out. Discard the newspaper roll containing the trapped earwigs in the morning. Seal the trap in a plastic bag before discarding it.

Mix a earwig spray repellent from household products. Add 2tbsp. of baking soda to an 8-oz. spray bottle filled with water. Shake well. Add 1 tsp. of dish-washing soap. Spray the repellent around plants, light fixtures and door frames to keep the earwigs away. You can also create a spray repellent from a 50/50 mix of water and white vinegar.

Bury cans half full of beer in or near your garden. Bury it deep enough that the top of the can is even with the ground. The earwigs, attracted to the scent of beer, will fall in the can and drown.

Make a sticky trap to trap the earwigs. Cover a piece of cardboard with duct tape, sticky side up. Place the cardboard under couches, tables or anywhere you are bothered by earwigs. The insects will crawl across the trap and get stuck. Dispose of the entire trap, earwigs and all!

Earwigs often enter your home through doorways and areas near your foundation. Inspect your home for any gaps that they can enter through. Seal gaps near water pipes, baseboards and windows to prevent them from entering your home. Install a rubber door seal to keep them from coming through the front door.