AnnaMaria
Earwigs aren’t dangerous to humans, but that doesn’t mean you want them making themselves at home in your house or garden. Many people have noticed a recent spike in earwig sightings—I’ve seen more in my own garden this year than ever before.
If you’re spotting earwigs around your property, especially close to your house, it might be time to take action.
A Quick and Easy DIY Earwig Trap
Alicia Alexander, a Facebook user, shared a simple and effective way to trap earwigs outdoors. Here’s what she did:
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Fill a shallow bowl with about half a cup (4 oz, 120 ml) of olive oil.
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Set the bowl outside—on a deck, patio, or wherever you’re seeing earwig activity.
Within 24 hours, the bowl had collected a surprising number of earwigs. After 36 hours, even more bugs had been caught.
Why Does Olive Oil Work?
Strangely enough, earwigs are strongly attracted to olive oil. They crawl into the bowl, lured by the scent, but can’t get back out. The oil acts as a natural trap—no chemicals, no hassle, and no mess.
Check for Underlying Issues
If earwig numbers seem unusually high, there may be more to it than just bad luck. Earwigs love damp, rotting wood—which can point to moisture or structural problems around your home.
Take a few minutes to inspect your wooden decks, porches, and the foundation for signs of dampness or decay. Addressing these issues can help prevent future infestations.
Enjoy Your Outdoor Space Again
If earwigs have been ruining your outdoor time, this olive oil bowl trick is a quick, natural solution. It’s budget-friendly, easy to try, and surprisingly effective.
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple kitchen staple to help you reclaim your garden and enjoy the outdoors—just like that.
