Earwig
Easy DIY
Identification
Reddish-brown insects with prominent pincers (cerci) at the rear of the abdomen, active at night and found in damp mulch, under debris, and occasionally indoors.
Can I DIY this?
Easy DIYYou can handle this one yourself.
With the right product and a little patience, most homeowners take care of this pest on their own. Follow the treatment guide, read the product label, and you're set.
Recommended products
Syngenta Demand CS Insecticide, 8ozExterior perimeter barrierControl Solutions Bifen L/P Insecticide Granules, 25 lbsYard & perimeter granulesSome links may be affiliate links. Buggsy may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Always follow the product label.
- Check mulch beds, under stones, and other damp outdoor debris close to the foundation — that's their preferred daytime hiding spot.
- Reduce moisture and clear mulch or dense vegetation away from the foundation to remove harborage.
- Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility entry points to block their way inside.
- Apply a residual perimeter treatment around the foundation, focusing on mulch beds and entry points.
- Indoors, a crack-and-crevice treatment in damp areas (bathrooms, basements) handles stragglers.
Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, closed-toe shoes with socks, chemical-resistant gloves, and goggles. Add a respirator if the label calls for it or ventilation is poor.