Earwigs invade Ontario homes by the hundreds, especially in summer. While they're not dangerous, a large infestation is unpleasant and difficult to eliminate without professional treatment.
Earwigs are reddish-brown insects about 15mm long with distinctive pincers (cerci) at the rear. They're outdoor insects that migrate indoors in large numbers during hot, dry weather or heavy rain seeking the cool, moist conditions found in basements, bathrooms, and under sinks. They're nocturnal and can be alarming to encounter in large numbers.
Signs of earwig activity:
Earwigs don't bite humans or spread disease, and their pincers rarely break skin. However, a heavy infestation is distressing and indicates a moisture problem that likely attracts other pests. Outdoors, large populations cause noticeable damage to garden plants.
Earwig treatment focuses on the exterior perimeter of the home targeting the moist areas around the foundation where earwigs congregate before entering. We apply residual treatment around entry points, windows, doors, and foundation gaps. Interior treatment addresses active populations in basements and lower-level areas.
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Targeted treatments tough on pests and safe for your household.
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No. The name comes from old folklore, not science. Earwigs are harmless to people. They do not burrow into ears, bite, or spread disease. They do pinch if handled but rarely break skin.
Earwigs love moisture. They enter through gaps around foundation, basement windows, bath fans, and crawlspaces, then head to the dampest rooms. A wet basement or leaky bath trap is usually the attractant.
In the garden they chew on hostas, dahlias, lettuce, and strawberries, which shows up as ragged holes in leaves and petals. Indoors they do not damage wood, fabric, or structure. The issue is the sheer number and the creep factor.
We apply a residual perimeter treatment around the foundation, dust into wall voids and cracks where they shelter, and use bait stations in active zones. Outdoor earwig populations drop within 7 to 14 days.
Pull mulch and leaf litter back 15 cm from the foundation, trim vegetation that touches the siding, run a dehumidifier in the basement, seal gaps around basement windows, and keep outdoor lighting away from doorways. Our protection plan includes a spring perimeter treatment.
Same day service available. Free quotes. No obligation. Discreet unmarked vehicles.