As the temperature gets colder, many pests start looking for shelters to nest in. Already starting to see these little pests inside your home? This is the thing that earwigs do. These insects are small and can quickly squeeze into your home through little gaps and holes. Even though they are not scary, it doesn’t mean one would be comfortable living with them. The question remains- how do earwigs get in your house, especially when they live outside? To help you understand, here is how they enter your home.
Different Ways Earwigs Get in Your House
Despite regular cleaning, many people still wonder about- how do earwigs get in the house. Well, to make sure you are aware, here is how these small pests enter your premises:
1.Cracks and Crevices
One of the easiest ways for these small pests to get inside your house is through cracks and crevices in the basement walls or the foundation. This includes tiny holes or openings around doors, pipes, windows, etc.
2.Food Sources
Looking for reasons on how do earwigs get in the house? Another common way is through food. Earwigs are versatile pests and they feed on both plant matter and other insects. They feed on the fallen decaying leaves and also leftovers in your home. Unlike other pests, they don’t chew on your home’s foundation, instead rely on garbage, small crumbs, spilt food, etc.
3.Cardboard Boxes and Containers
No matter how much you clean your home, there is always something left behind. The biggest mistake homeowners or business owners often make is not throwing away used cardboard boxes. For instance, they may get inside with bundles of newspapers or books that you have recently moved inside. In addition to hiding in boxes and crates, these insects also get into your home through used containers.
4.Plants/Flowers
Another place where earwigs hide is on plants and in soils. Most people unknowingly bring the infested plants indoors not knowing that they are inviting these insects inside too. How do earwigs get in your house? Are you still wondering? Well, they also enter your home by hitching a ride on people, pets, clothes, bags, etc.
5.Firewood/Lumber
Items such as firewood or lumber are another cause of earwigs entering your home. When stored inside, it quickly leads to an infestation. These small, creepy insects also crawl under doors, especially if there are cracks. Another way they get inside is when you bring items indoors from infested areas like furniture, plants, etc. They are also highly attracted to rotten wood and feel right at home living inside those holes.
6.Nearby Infestations
How do earwigs get in the house? Talking about this, another way is through nearby infestations. For instance, if your neighbors or your surrounding area has an earwig infestation then there are high chances for these insects to migrate in. They enter easily through adjacent buildings and shared walls.
7.Gutters/Drain Pipes
Thinking cracks are the only way these insects get inside your home? Well, you are sadly mistaken. Earwigs also easily enter your premises through sewer lines, drains, pipes and gutters as they can live and multiply in damp and moist environments. Additionally, they also squeeze into your house when the gutter guards are not properly installed.
8.Lighting
Another way these small insects get into your home is by being attracted by the lights. The exterior lights may be bringing them in as they are attracted to brightness. In addition to exterior lights, the interior light that floods out of the home to the outside via windows may also bring them in.
How to Get Rid of Earwigs in Your Home?
How do earwigs get in your house? Now that you know this, you must be wondering how to get rid of them. Aren’t you? Well, here are some best ways how to eliminate them:
i) Vacuum
Vacuuming your home daily is a great way to get rid of earwigs living in your home. Not only will you suck up any rouge earwigs but also any food crumbs on the ground. Once you are done vacuuming, make sure to empty your bag outside. Also, make sure to clean up indoor clutter and throw away items such as newspapers or cardboard boxes that are no longer in use.
ii) Secure Entries
Because these creepy crawling animals easily crawl into your home through tiny spaces, cracks and holes, it is vital to secure all entry points by sealing them. Look thoroughly for cracks, gaps between doors and windows, and tiny holes. You can also add an extra layer of protection by using and placing nets as barriers in your windows.
iii) Eliminate Moisture
As said earlier, earwigs love to live in damp and dark places, where the moisture is high. This includes areas like a damp basement, under a sink, bathroom, etc. So, make sure you keep such areas dry by using fans or dehumidifiers. Additionally, also check and fix leaking faucets and install proper ventilation.
iv) Minimize Lighting
Another way you can stop earwigs from entering your home is by minimizing lighting. Reduce outdoor lighting and avoid lighting the indoors unnecessarily. Instead, you can use bug-repellent bulbs or yellow ones.
v) Natural Remedies
Another way you can get rid of these pests is by using natural remedies. This includes tips such as:
- Wiping down every entry point in your home using a vinegar solution.
- Spraying areas where earwigs are active with a dish soap and water mixture.
- To kill them on contact, you can use a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water.
- Place scented sachets or spray essential oils with a good smell like lavender, rosemary or peppermint in areas where earwigs are active.
Let Earwigs Not Be Your House Guests
When it comes to eliminating earwigs from your house, the best decision is to opt for professional services. Opt for the best and reputed pest control services and leave the rest to them.
These professionals not only are trained in various methods but also use high-end equipment and products for effective results. However, just make sure to hire experts who offer guarantees and charges reasonably.
