Earwigs Indoors: What to Do When Children Are Nearby

Hi, I’m Gunhee Park with Anteater Pest Control (678-704-3349). When a child reaches for an insect on the floor, you want it gone right away. Have an adult sweep or vacuum up the insects and dispose of them out of children’s reach.

In an earlier message, someone described moving with their family from Dallas to a first-floor apartment in Tennessee. After pest trouble at their previous home, they were finding dark insects with rear pincers indoors and dead ones by the door. Their kindergarten-age daughter cried at the sight. Their one-year-old son, who had skin problems, tried to put a dead insect in his mouth. They wished they had arranged pest control before moving and wanted to spray immediately.

That worry is understandable. But not treating before a move does not mean spraying now is the right answer. Rear pincers suggest earwigs; confirm the insect before choosing a treatment. Earwigs are active at night and hide in damp outdoor places. They can find their way indoors through gaps.

To reduce repeat entry, check around doors and windows, address accessible openings, and reduce excess moisture and leaf debris near the building. These steps help limit entry without promising that no insect will ever get inside.

Young children need particular consideration before pesticide use. “Natural” or herbal ingredients do not make a product automatically non-irritating or suitable for a child with a skin condition. Risk depends on the product and exposure. Discuss skin concerns with the child’s clinician and tell the pest professional about children and health concerns. Keep products out of reach and follow the label’s directions for removing children and toys from treatment areas.

If insects keep appearing, ask an appropriately licensed and insured professional to identify them and inspect the conditions. Any pesticide use must follow label precautions for people and the environment. Ask what follow-up and home care the findings call for.

Contact Anteater Pest Control to discuss your household pest concerns.