How to get rid of earwigs in San Diego County
Earwigs live outdoors in mulch and damp soil but wander inside San Diego homes through gaps around doors and windows, especially after irrigation or a rare rain. They look alarming with their pincers but rarely cause real harm indoors.
What you're dealing with
The European earwig is the species found throughout San Diego County, thriving in irrigated gardens, mulch beds, and potted plants.
How to get rid of earwigs: step by step
- Reduce mulch and organic debris near the foundationEarwigs hide in damp mulch during the day. Pulling it back a few inches from the house removes their closest staging area.
- Water in the morning instead of the eveningMorning watering lets soil dry out before nightfall, when earwigs are most active and looking for a damp place to hide.
- Seal gaps around doors and windowsWeatherstripping and door sweeps block the most common paths earwigs use to wander inside from garden beds.
- Set out rolled, damp newspaper traps outdoorsEarwigs will hide inside a loosely rolled damp newspaper overnight. Shake it out into soapy water in the morning.
- Remove standing plant debris and leaf litterClearing dead leaves and cut plant material near patios and entryways takes away daytime hiding spots close to the house.
When to call a pro
If earwigs are getting inside regularly despite sealed entry points and reduced mulch, the outdoor population near the foundation is likely large enough to need a perimeter treatment. General pest control service covers earwigs along with the other common invaders crossing that same perimeter.
Check general pest cost, or read the signs of earwigs first.
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Common questions
Do earwigs in San Diego County bite or sting people?
Earwigs can pinch with their rear pincers if handled, but it rarely breaks skin and they do not carry disease or venom.
Why are there more earwigs after I water my garden?
Earwigs need damp soil to survive the day. Evening watering leaves the ground moist right when they come out to feed and hide.
Will earwigs damage my house if they get inside?
No. They do not eat wood or wiring. Indoor earwigs are a nuisance, not a structural risk, and usually dry out and die within a few days.
Want earwigs gone for good?
Call for a free inspection and a flat-rate quote across San Diego County.