Although earwigs are mostly harmless, they’re still not exactly welcome guests in a home or garden. If you’ve been seeing more of them lately, you’re not alone—many people notice spikes in their numbers during warm, damp seasons.
One simple trick that’s been circulating comes from a home remedy approach: using oil as a trap.
The idea is straightforward. Fill a shallow bowl with about half a cup of olive oil and place it outside—on a deck, patio, or in the garden where earwigs tend to gather. The oil attracts them, and once they fall in, they can’t escape.
According to people who’ve tried it, the results can be surprisingly fast. Within a day, the bowl can collect a noticeable number, and after a bit longer, even more. It’s a low-effort way to reduce their presence without using chemical sprays.
That said, it works best as part of a bigger approach:
- Reduce moisture around your home (earwigs love damp areas)
- Clear away mulch, leaves, or debris near walls
- Seal small cracks and entry points
The oil trap won’t eliminate them entirely, but it can make a visible dent—especially if you place a few traps in problem spots.
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