How to Get Rid of Earwigs with One Simple Ingredient

Earwigs—those creepy, pincher-tailed insects—can be a real nuisance in your home and garden. While they don’t usually pose a serious threat, their sudden appearance in sinks, basements, and plants can be alarming. Fortunately, you don’t need harsh chemicals or expensive extermination methods to get rid of them. You can eliminate earwigs easily using one simple ingredient that’s likely already in your kitchen!

Let’s dive into how this natural solution works and how you can use it effectively.

---

Understanding Earwigs

Before you attack the problem, it helps to understand your enemy. Earwigs are nocturnal insects that thrive in moist, dark environments. They hide under leaves, mulch, flower pots, and damp crevices during the day, coming out at night to feed on plants, decaying matter, and even small insects.

They enter homes through tiny cracks and gaps, especially during hot, dry weather or heavy rains when they seek moisture and shelter.

---

The One Simple Ingredient: Olive Oil (or Vegetable Oil)

That’s right—ordinary olive oil or vegetable oil can help you get rid of earwigs quickly and naturally! Earwigs are attracted to the smell of oil and get trapped in it once they crawl in. This method works as both a bait and a trap, making it one of the easiest and most eco-friendly pest control tricks around.

---

How to Use Olive Oil to Trap Earwigs

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make your own earwig trap:

What You’ll Need:

• A small dish, jar lid, or shallow container

• Olive oil or vegetable oil (about 2 tablespoons)

• A few drops of soy sauce or fish oil (optional – enhances the bait)

Steps:

1. Pour the olive or vegetable oil into the container.

2. (Optional) Add a drop or two of soy sauce or fish oil to attract more earwigs with its strong scent.

3. Place the container near problem areas—under sinks, in basements, around plants, or wherever you’ve seen earwigs.

4. Leave it overnight.

5. In the morning, you’ll find earwigs trapped in the oil.

6. Dispose of the contents and refill the trap as needed.

---

Why It Works

Earwigs are attracted to the smell of the oil, mistaking it for food. Once they crawl in, the thick oil coats their bodies, preventing them from escaping. This simple trap is safe, natural, and non-toxic—making it ideal for use around children and pets.

---

Additional Tips to Keep Earwigs Away

While the olive oil trap works wonderfully, here are some extra tips to prevent future infestations:

1. Eliminate Moisture

Earwigs love damp places. Fix any leaky faucets, use a dehumidifier in basements, and avoid overwatering plants.

2. Seal Cracks and Entry Points

Inspect your doors, windows, and foundation for cracks or gaps. Seal them with caulk to prevent earwigs from sneaking inside.

3. Reduce Outdoor Hiding Spots

Remove piles of leaves, mulch, and garden debris where earwigs hide during the day.

4. Use Light Strategically

Earwigs are attracted to light. Turn off unnecessary outdoor lights at night to avoid drawing them near your home.

5. Diatomaceous Earth (Optional)

If you prefer another natural remedy, sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home or garden. It dehydrates and kills earwigs on contact.

---

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of earwigs doesn’t require harsh pesticides or expensive pest control services. With just one simple ingredient—olive oil—you can naturally trap and eliminate these unwanted insects from your home and garden. Pair this trick with good sanitation and moisture control, and you’ll keep your space earwig-free all year long.