Earwigs may be “mostly harmless insects,” but their appearance can still be unsettling. With their long bodies and pincers, they often show up in larger numbers during warm, wet weather, especially around gardens and patios. While they don’t pose a real threat, they can quickly become unwanted guests when they gather near entrances or start sneaking indoors, leaving many people wondering how to deal with them.

These insects are naturally drawn to “moisture, darkness, and shelter,” which explains why they hide under pots, mulch, and along foundations during the day. At night, they come out to feed on plants and debris, sometimes even helping by eating other pests. However, when their numbers grow, they can damage gardens and create discomfort around the home, making control necessary.

One simple and natural solution involves olive oil. This method became popular after someone shared how they eliminated large numbers of earwigs using just a bowl and oil. It’s an easy, low-cost alternative to chemicals, appealing to those who want a safer and more practical approach without adding harmful substances to their environment.

The process is straightforward: pour about half a cup of olive oil into a shallow container and place it where earwigs are active. The oil works as both an attractant and a trap—earwigs are drawn in, but the “slippery texture of the oil” prevents them from escaping. It requires little effort and continues working on its own once set up.

Results can appear quickly. “Within less than 24 hours,” many notice a significant number trapped, and after 36 hours, even more may be collected. Regularly refreshing the oil keeps the trap effective. Combined with simple prevention like reducing moisture and sealing gaps, this method helps control earwigs and maintain a more comfortable, pest-free space.