Earwigs can invade homes quickly, especially in humid climates like Grand Prairie, TX. While they don’t pose serious health risks, their presence is unnerving. As your trusted local pest control company, Brady Pest Control breaks down proven strategies for how to get rid of earwigs in your house fast and prevent future invasions.

Why Earwigs Invade Homes

Earwigs seek moisture, shelter, and food. Common reasons for infestations include:

• Damp environments: Leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or standing water.
• Organic debris: Mulch, leaf piles, or rotting wood near your home.
• Cracks and gaps: Unsealed windows, doors, or foundation cracks.

5 Fast-Action Earwig Removal Methods

Vacuuming

Quick fix: Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to suck up earwigs hiding in corners, under appliances, or near damp areas.

Pro tip: Empty the vacuum bag immediately into an outdoor trash bin to prevent escape.

Soap and Water Spray

DIY solution: Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap with 1 quart of water. Spray directly on earwigs—this breaks down their protective wax layer, killing them quickly.

Rubbing Alcohol

Effective killer: Combine equal parts 70% isopropyl alcohol and water. Spray in cracks, under sinks, or along baseboards. Avoid spraying plants or fabrics.

Light Traps

Nighttime trick: Place a shallow bowl of soapy water near outdoor lights. Earwigs attracted to the light will fall in and drown.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Natural barrier: Sprinkle food-grade DE near entry points. This powder dehydrates earwigs on contact.

Overwhelmed? Call Brady Pest Control at (817) 714-5875 for same-day earwig removal near you!

Long-Term Prevention Tips

Eliminate Moisture

• Fix leaky faucets, pipes, and AC units.
• Use dehumidifiers in basements or crawl spaces.
• Clean gutters regularly to prevent water buildup.

Seal Entry Points

• Apply weatherstripping to doors/windows.
• Caulk gaps around utility lines, vents, and foundations.
• Install door sweeps to block gaps under exterior doors.

Yard Maintenance

• Keep mulch 12+ inches away from your home’s foundation.
• Trim bushes and shrubs to reduce shaded, damp areas.
• Store firewood off the ground and away from the house.

Natural Repellents

• Essential oils: Mix 10 drops of peppermint, citrus, or tea tree oil with water. Spray around windows and doors.
• Cedar chips: Place near entry points—earwigs hate cedar’s scent.

Struggling with recurring earwigs? Let our local exterminator near me create a tailored prevention plan!

When to Call a Professional Pest Control Contractor for Earwig Removal

DIY methods work for small infestations, but severe cases require expertise. Brady Pest Control’s earwig removal services include:

• Thorough inspections to locate nests and entry points.
• Targeted treatments using EPA-approved insecticides.
• Preventive barriers to stop future invasions.
• Follow-up visits to ensure long-term results.

We also handle General Pest Control, Cockroach extermination, and Fleas and ticks management!

Don’t Let Earwigs Take Over—Act Fast!

Earwigs multiply quickly, and delays can worsen infestations. Whether you need DIY tips or professional earwig removal, Brady Pest Control is here to help. From General Pest Control to specialized treatments, we protect Grand Prairie homes year-round.

Contact your local exterminator near you today for a pest-free home tomorrow! 

FAQs

How do I get rid of earwigs permanently?

Combine professional pest control with moisture control and sealing cracks. Earwigs return to damp environments, so fixing leaks is crucial.

What smells do earwigs hate?

Strong scents like peppermint, citronella, and cinnamon repel earwigs. Mix 10 drops of essential oil with water and spray entry points.

What are earwigs a warning of?

They indicate excess moisture, decaying organic matter, or other pests (like aphids) in your yard.

What are earwigs attracted to?

• Damp, dark spaces (under sinks, basements).
• Rotting wood, mulch, or compost piles.
• Outdoor lights at night.

What household item kills earwigs?

• Boric acid: Sprinkle in cracks (keep away from pets/kids).
• Alcohol spray: Kills on contact.
• Soapy water: Effective for small infestations.

Why do I suddenly have earwigs in my house?

Sudden appearances often follow heavy rain, lawn watering, or new mulch/soil near your home.