How to Kill Earwigs
An old wives' tale claims that earwigs will crawl into your ear and eat your brain; hence the name. However, earwigs are benign creatures, despite their creepy appearance. There are more than 20 species of earwigs, all which have 1/2-inch long thin, flat black or brown bodies with pinchers on the tail. In general, you won't find earwigs inside your home except for the occasional intruder. They can usually be found in moist areas around the foundation of your home and under mulch, leaves and logs in the lawn and garden. There are simple ways to rid your yard of earwigs. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Mix soap with water in a spray bottle. Spray the soapy water in areas where you've spotted earwigs to kill them. Concentrate on damp areas around the foundation and in the yard.
-
2
Loosely wrap a section of newspaper into a coil and tie the tube in place with string. Dampen the newspaper with water and place it in an area where earwigs congregate. Earwigs will be attracted to the moisture and crawl inside the coil. Dispose of the newspaper and its earwigs in a sealed plastic bag.
-
-
3
Fill an empty tuna can with a 1/2 inch of vegetable oil and a small amount of honey. Place it where you suspect an earwig infestation. Earwigs will be attracted to the honey, crawl into the can and drown in the oil.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Clean up moist, damp areas around your house. Earwigs are attracted to these areas.
Regularly move patio furniture and potted plants so that the areas beneath them can dry.
Remove any mulch or leaf piles from your yard.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
