Why Do i Have Earwigs in my House? How to Get Rid of Them in 2025

Earwigs can be creepy and annoying when they show up inside your home. If you’re wondering, “why do I have earwigs in my house?”, the answer is simple. They’re looking for food, water, or shelter. Earwigs love damp, dark spaces, and even small cracks or gaps can be their way inside. If these pests have taken over your space, don’t worry. You can get rid of them with some simple steps. For starters, eliminate moisture sources, remove hiding places, and consider using insecticides or traps.

Why Earwigs Enter Homes 

Earwigs don’t just wander into homes for no reason. They are drawn to certain things that make your home comfortable for them. Here’s what attracts them:

1. Moisture 

Earwigs thrive in wet places. If you have leaky pipes, damp basements, or clogged gutters, it’s like giving them an invitation. They love environments where water collects. 

Tip: Fix leaks and make sure your home is dry to make it less appealing for earwigs. 

2. Food Sources 

Earwigs feed on decaying organic matter. Things like leaf litter, rotting vegetables, and food crumbs are a buffet for them. 

Tip: Clean up spills and get rid of outdoor debris near your home. 

3. Shelter 

Dark, hidden spots are earwigs’ favorite places. They’ll hide in cracks, under clutter, or behind wallpaper. 

Tip: Declutter your home and seal those cracks. 

4. Entry Points 

Earwigs don’t need big gaps to crawl in. Small cracks in your foundation, gaps under doors, or damaged window screens can all be doorways for them. 

Tip: Use caulk to seal cracks and keep door sweeps in place.  Read our Latest Post on Are Earwigs Dangerous or Poisonous to Humans and Dogs?

How to Get Rid of Earwigs 

Getting rid of earwigs doesn’t have to be hard. Follow these effective steps to kick them out and keep them out:

1. Reduce Moisture 

Earwigs can’t survive without water. Remove the moisture, and they’ll leave. 

• Fix leaky pipes and faucets. 
• Use a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements. 
• Make sure your gutters are clean and working well. 
• Get rid of standing water in and around your home.

2. Eliminate Food Sources 

Make your home less tempting by cutting off their food supply. 

• Sweep up food crumbs right away. 
• Store food in sealed containers. 
• Remove mulch or rotting leaves near your house. 

3. Remove Hiding Places 

Take away the dark, hidden spaces earwigs love. 

• Declutter your home, especially attics and basements. 
• Move firewood and other piles of debris away from your home. 
• Trim plants and bushes around your foundation. 

4. Seal Entry Points 

Block earwigs from getting inside. 

• Caulk cracks in walls, windows, and doors. 
• Install or repair door sweeps and weather stripping. 
• Patch any holes in window or vent screens. 

5. Use Insecticides or Traps 

If earwigs are still around, you can try these methods. 

• Use sticky traps or bait traps in areas where earwigs are active. 
• Apply bug spray or insecticides designed for earwigs around your home’s perimeter. Always follow the product’s instructions. 

6. Seek Professional Help 

If the infestation is too large to handle, consider calling a pest control service. Experts can use targeted treatments that are safe and effective for your home. Explore Why Are There Earwigs in My House? Prevention and Treatment Guide.

Read Our Most Recently Published Guides on Termites, Earwigs, Fruit Flies and Gnats:

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• Baby Termites vs Ants? How to Tell the Difference
• Fruit Flies vs Gnats: How to Tell the Difference in 2025
• Fungus Gnats vs Fruit Flies: How to Tell the Difference in 2025

Final Thoughts 

Earwigs can seem scary, but they’re not a huge threat. If you’re asking, “why do I have earwigs in my house?”, start looking for moisture, food, and hiding places. By fixing these issues, you can get rid of them for good. Follow these steps, and your home will be earwig-free in no time. Follow Us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter for the latest updates.

FAQs 

How do I permanently get rid of earwigs in my house? 

Seal cracks, clean up food, and fix moisture problems. This combination works best for keeping them out long-term. 

How long is earwig season? 

Earwigs are most active from spring to early fall, but they may come indoors year-round if conditions are right. 

Why are the earwigs so bad this year? 

Warm and wet weather can lead to a spike in earwig populations. Check for seasonal patterns in your area. 

Do earwigs have a queen? 

No, earwigs don’t work like ants or bees. They don’t have queens or colonies. 

Should I be worried if I find an earwig in my house? 

One or two earwigs aren’t usually a cause for concern, but if you see many, it’s time to act. 

What spray kills earwigs? 

Bug sprays labeled for earwigs or general household pests work well. Look for products with pyrethrin or bifenthrin. 

Is it bad to have earwigs in your house? 

While they aren’t dangerous, earwigs can be a nuisance. Taking steps to remove them helps keep your home comfortable. 

Do earwigs mean my house is dirty? 

Not necessarily. Earwigs are attracted to moisture and dark spaces, so even clean homes can get them. 

What are earwigs a warning of? 

Earwigs might indicate moisture issues or outdoor clutter near your home. Fixing these problems can help more than just pests.