How To Get Rid Of Earwigs With One Simple Ingredient
While earwigs aren’t harmful to humans, no one wants them crawling around their home, garden, or outdoor seating areas. And if you’ve noticed more of these pesky insects lately—you’re not alone. Many homeowners are reporting a surge in earwig activity this year.
If you’re seeing earwigs more frequently, especially near your deck or garden, it might be time to take action. Luckily, there’s a simple, all-natural solution that’s easy to try and surprisingly effective.
A DIY Earwig Trap That Really Works
Alicia Alexander, a clever Facebook user, recently shared a genius trick for catching earwigs in her backyard. Her method? A shallow bowl and some olive oil.
Here’s how she did it:
- Fill a small bowl with about half a cup of olive oil
- Place it outside in a spot where you’ve seen earwig activity—like a deck, porch, or garden bed
- Leave it overnight and check the results
Within just 24 hours, Alicia’s bowl had trapped a surprising number of earwigs. After 36 hours, the results were even more dramatic—all without a single chemical.
Why Olive Oil?
Oddly enough, earwigs are attracted to the scent of olive oil. They crawl in but can’t climb back out—the slippery texture makes escape nearly impossible. The oil essentially acts as a natural, non-toxic trap.
No harsh pesticides.
No special equipment.
Just a bowl and a pantry staple.
Check for the Source: Could Your Home Be Attracting Earwigs?
If you’re seeing an unusual number of earwigs, it might not be random. These insects are often drawn to moist or rotting wood, which can indicate hidden structural issues.
Take a moment to inspect:
- Wooden decks or porches
- Garden beds with decaying mulch
- Foundations with signs of water damage or rot
Fixing these conditions can help eliminate the root cause of the infestation and prevent earwigs from returning.
The Perfect Low-Cost Solution for Outdoor Comfort
Whether earwigs are bothering you on the patio or sneaking into your garden shed, this olive oil trick is an easy, affordable, and chemical-free way to deal with them.
You’ll love how simple it is:
- Safe for pets and kids (just place the bowl out of reach)
- Budget-friendly using ingredients you already have
- Fast results in just a day or two
Final Tip: Refresh the Oil Regularly
To keep the trap effective, change the oil every couple of days—especially in warm or rainy weather. You can also try adding a few drops of soy sauce to boost the scent and draw even more bugs in.
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