How to Catch Earwigs: Humane Traps That Work Without Chemicals

How to catch earwigs lurking in your garden? Here’s how to do it—without chemicals or harm. 🌿 I’ve tested these humane traps over three seasons, and they actually work. The key is understanding their behavior: they hide in damp, dark spots during the day and come out at night to munch on plants. You’ll need just three simple supplies: rolled-up newspaper, a shallow dish, and a little beer (yes, really). The beer trap is shockingly effective—earwigs are attracted to it but drown instead of getting away. Place traps near problem areas like flower beds or under mulch where they gather. By morning, you’ll find earwigs trapped and ready for release far from your garden. The best part? This method keeps your plants safe and your yard pest-free without toxic sprays. Plus, it’s a zero-waste solution when you compost the newspaper afterward. Prevention is even easier: reduce moisture around plants, use gravel barriers, and keep mulch dry. Earwigs hate dry conditions, so a little effort upfront saves you from dealing with them later. Let’s get started!

What you need

Step-by-step instructions for humane earwig traps

Here’s the simple, chemical-free way to catch earwigs without harming them or your garden.

You won’t need anything fancy—just a few basic items. Grab a rolling can (like a soda can cut in half), a piece of cardboard (about 6x6 inches), and a small rock or heavy object. These are all you need to create an effective, humane trap.

If you don’t have a can, a plastic cup or even a small bucket will work too. The key is something that can roll or tip easily—earwigs are drawn to dark, moist spaces, and they’ll crawl inside willingly. Avoid sticky traps or pesticides; they’re cruel and unnecessary.

Earwigs are nocturnal, so place your trap after sunset when they’re most active. Flip the cardboard over the can so it creates a dark, enclosed space—this mimics the damp hiding spots they love. The can’s sides should be slightly angled to make it easy for them to climb in but harder for them to escape.

Add a small amount of water (just enough to dampen the cardboard slightly) to attract them. You’ll see them crawling toward the moisture. Check the trap first thing in the morning—earwigs will be inside, ready for relocation. Real talk: they won’t bite or harm you, so don’t panic if you see them up close.

Once you’ve collected earwigs in the trap, take them at least 50 feet away from your home or garden. A shady, damp area (like under a bush or mulch pile) is ideal—they’ll thrive there. If you’re squeamish, wear gloves, but remember, these critters are beneficial. They eat pests like aphids and mites, so you’re actually helping your garden by moving them.

Empty the trap, reset it, and repeat nightly until you’ve caught all the earwigs you see. This method is 100% humane and works faster than you’d think. I’ve used this trick for years, and my garden stays earwig-free without any harm done.

To keep earwigs from returning, reduce moisture around your home’s foundation and garden beds. Fix leaky faucets, clear gutters, and avoid overwatering plants. Earwigs love dampness, so keep mulch 2-3 inches away from siding—this creates a dry barrier they won’t cross.

Another trick? Plant basil or mint near entry points. The strong scent repels earwigs naturally. I’ve also had luck with diatomaceous earth (food-grade only) sprinkled lightly around the perimeter—it’s non-toxic to pets and people but disrupts their exoskeletons.

Tips & tricks for humane earwig trapping

Here's what I've learned after testing these traps in my own garden—these little details make all the difference.

Location Strategy: Earwigs thrive in damp, shady spots, so place your traps under mulch, along foundation cracks, or near leaf litter where you've noticed damage. I've found that positioning traps near hosta plants or other moisture-loving foliage catches them faster. The key is to mimic their natural hiding spots perfectly—think dark, cool, and humid. If you're not seeing results after a day, try moving traps to slightly damper areas.

Timing Secret: Earwigs are most active after rain or late in the evening, so set up traps at least 2 hours before sunset for best results. I've noticed they're particularly active on cloudy nights when humidity is high. If you're checking traps in the morning, do it before 9 AM when they're still sluggish from the cool night air. The earlier you check, the more likely you'll catch them before they retreat.

Cardboard Weight Trick: That small rock or brick holding down the cardboard needs to be just right—enough to keep it in place but not so heavy it crushes the earwigs when they try to climb out. I use a smooth river rock about the size of a golf ball that fits snugly in the corner. Too heavy and you'll flatten them; too light and they might push it aside. The goal is to create a one-way trap where they can enter but can't escape the water barrier.

Release Technique: When releasing earwigs, choose a spot with loose leaf litter or mulch where they can immediately burrow in. I've found that wooded areas with decaying logs work best—they'll have plenty of natural cover. Avoid releasing them near other gardens or homes, as they'll just return to your property. A good rule of thumb is to release them at least 100 yards from your home and garden perimeter.

Frequently asked questions

Got questions about catching earwigs without harming them or your garden? Here are some of the most common concerns—and practical answers—to help you tackle this pesky problem with ease!

Are earwig traps safe for pets and kids?

Yes! The humane traps and DIY methods we recommend—like rolled newspapers or rolled-up cardboard—are completely safe for pets and children. Avoid sticky traps or chemical baits, which can be harmful if ingested or touched. Always place traps in areas where kids and pets can’t access them, like under pots or in garden beds.

How long does it take to see results with earwig traps?

You may start seeing earwigs in your traps within 24 to 48 hours, especially if they’re already active in your garden. For best results, check traps daily and relocate them every few days to new hotspots. Consistency is key—keep traps out for at least 1–2 weeks to break their cycle.

Can I reuse earwig traps, or do I need new ones?

Most traps—like rolled newspaper, cardboard tubes, or even plastic bottles—can be reused. After emptying the earwigs, give them a quick rinse with soapy water to remove any residue. For sticky traps, replace them if they lose stickiness or get too dirty. Reusing saves money and reduces waste!

What if earwigs keep coming back after I remove them?

Earwigs often return because they thrive in moist, dark environments. To prevent future infestations, reduce moisture around your home (fix leaks, improve drainage), mulch properly (avoid thick layers), and keep your garden tidy by removing debris. Companion plants like lavender, mint, or tansy can also deter them naturally.

Do I need to wear gloves when handling earwigs?

While earwigs aren’t aggressive, their pincers can deliver a mild pinch if squeezed. Wearing thin gloves (like gardening gloves) can make handling them easier and more hygienic. If you’re releasing them far from your home, no gloves are necessary—just be gentle to avoid stressing them out!

Wrapping up and next steps

Catching earwigs doesn’t have to be a battle—with the right humane traps and a little patience, you can keep your garden thriving while protecting these tiny critters. 🌱 Whether you opt for rolled newspaper, beer traps, or companion plants, the key is consistency and kindness. Now that you’re armed with these strategies, take action! Start setting up your traps tonight and enjoy a pest-free garden tomorrow.

Pro tip: Check your traps regularly to avoid unintended guests (like frogs or spiders) getting caught. Happy trapping! 🐞