Why Earwigs Enter Homes and How to Stop Them

Earwigs may look a little intimidating with their pincers, but for most homeowners, the real concern isn’t their appearance—it’s when these insects start showing up indoors. Understanding why earwigs enter homes and how to prevent them can save you frustration and protect your property from unnecessary pest issues.

Why Earwigs Come Indoors

Earwigs are primarily outdoor insects, often found in damp, dark areas like under mulch, leaves, or stones. They are nocturnal and feed on plants, decaying matter, and sometimes smaller insects. However, several factors can drive them indoors:

1. Moisture and Humidity
   Earwigs thrive in moist environments. Leaky pipes, damp basements, or even overwatered garden areas near your home can make your property appealing to these pests.
2. Shelter and Safety
   Earwigs seek shelter from predators and harsh weather. During heavy rain or cold snaps, they may migrate into homes, garages, or crawl spaces to find a safe, dry environment.
3. Access Points
   Cracks in the foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and poorly sealed vents give earwigs an open invitation indoors. Even small spaces around utility lines can serve as entryways.
4. Attraction to Light
   Like many nocturnal insects, earwigs are attracted to lights. Outdoor lighting close to doors or windows may unintentionally draw them toward your home.

Common Signs of an Earwig Infestation

Spotting earwigs early can prevent them from becoming a bigger nuisance:

• Small clusters of insects in damp corners, basements, or bathrooms.
• Tiny black droppings near entry points.
• Evidence of plant damage near windows or doors.
• Occasionally, earwigs in your pantry, though this is less common.

How to Prevent Earwigs from Entering Your Home

While earwigs are generally harmless to humans, they can become a persistent nuisance indoors. Homeowners can take several proactive steps to reduce their presence:

1. Reduce Moisture Around Your Home

• Repair leaking faucets, pipes, and gutters.
• Avoid overwatering garden beds, especially near your foundation.
• Use dehumidifiers in damp basements or crawl spaces.

2. Seal Entry Points

• Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and utility lines.
• Install door sweeps on exterior doors.
• Check screens for tears or loose fittings.

3. Maintain Landscaping

• Keep mulch, leaves, and woodpiles away from the foundation.
• Trim back shrubs and plants that touch your home’s exterior walls.

4. Manage Outdoor Lighting

• Use yellow or sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to insects.
• Position lights away from doorways and windows.

5. Professional Pest Control

Even with careful prevention, earwigs may still find a way indoors. Specter Pest Control offers safe, effective treatments tailored for residential properties. Our team can identify problem areas, apply targeted solutions, and provide ongoing prevention strategies to keep your home pest-free.

When to Call Specter Pest Control

If you’re noticing earwigs indoors regularly or struggling to manage them on your own, it’s time to call the experts. Specter Pest Control specializes in protecting homes from earwigs and a wide range of other pests. With family-owned reliability and modern, safe methods, we help homeowners keep their properties comfortable and secure year-round.

Don’t let earwigs take over your home. Schedule your home inspection with Specter Pest Control today and get fast, professional help from your trusted local pest pros.