How To Get Rid Of Earwigs With One Simple Ingredient

Earwigs might not be dangerous, but their presence can still make your skin crawl. These creepy-crawlies are notorious for sneaking into homes, gardens, and outdoor spaces, leaving many homeowners frustrated and searching for solutions. If you’ve noticed an uptick in earwig activity this year—whether it’s in your garden, on your deck, or even inside your home—you’re not alone. Fortunately, there’s a simple, natural, and highly effective way to get rid of them using just one ingredient: olive oil .

Why Olive Oil Works Wonders on Earwigs

Earwigs are attracted to certain scents and substances, and olive oil happens to be one of them. The oil acts as a natural trap, luring the earwigs in with its aroma. Once they come into contact with the oil, they become trapped and unable to escape. This method is not only easy to set up but also environmentally friendly, making it a safe choice for households with pets, children, or gardens.

The effectiveness of this hack was shared by Facebook user Alicia Alexander, who successfully eliminated a large number of earwigs from her backyard using nothing more than a shallow bowl and some olive oil. Her post went viral as people marveled at how such a simple solution could yield such impressive results.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Olive Oil to Get Rid of Earwigs

1. Gather Your Materials
   All you need is a shallow bowl (like a saucer or pie tin) and about half a cup of olive oil . Any type of olive oil will work—extra virgin, light, or even leftover oil from cooking.
2. Set Up the Trap
   Place the bowl in areas where you’ve noticed earwig activity. Common spots include:
   • Near cracks or crevices in walls
   • Under potted plants or garden furniture
   • On decks, patios, or porches
   • In damp, shaded areas of your yard
3. Wait for Results
   The earwigs will be drawn to the scent of the olive oil and climb into the bowl. Unfortunately for them, once they fall into the oil, they won’t be able to climb back out. Within 24 hours , you’ll likely find dozens of earwigs trapped in the bowl.
4. Dispose of the Trapped Earwigs
   Once the bowl has done its job, simply dispose of the contents. You can pour the oil and trapped earwigs into a sealed bag and throw it away, or bury the remains in your compost pile if you prefer a more eco-friendly approach.
5. Repeat as Needed
   Depending on the size of your infestation, you may need to repeat this process a few times to fully eliminate the problem. For persistent issues, consider placing multiple bowls around high-activity areas.