Earwigs and silverfish are often lumped together as creepy household bugs, but they're not the same thing. Both fall under what we call occasional invaders, seasonal pests that usually live outdoors but wander in when conditions push them inside. Our experts can help identify which one you're dealing with and address the conditions drawing them in.
Despite their intimidating look, earwigs are more startling than dangerous.
Quick and elusive, silverfish are a common sight in damp corners of the home.
Book your free inspection to get expert, local advice.
Both pests tend to show up in similar places, but a few clues can help tell them apart. Earwig sightings often cluster near damp mulch, doorframes, or basements, sometimes with small pincer marks left on soft fruit outdoors. Silverfish leave behind yellowish stains, tiny pepper-like droppings, or irregular holes in paper and fabric.
Spotting either pest at night, when they're most active, is also common. If you’re unsure about what you’re seeing, we’ll come and identify the pest and the conditions that are attracting them.
Since both pests are drawn to moisture, reducing damp conditions is the best place to start. Fix leaking pipes, run a dehumidifier in basements or bathrooms, and improve ventilation in humid areas.
Sealing entry points also helps keep both pests out. Caulk gaps around doors and windows, and store paper, cardboard, and fabric items off the floor. For ongoing protection against earwigs, silverfish, and dozens of other common pests, our PestFree365 plans offer year-round coverage and regular visits from a local technician.¹
Our local technicians know what attracts occasional invaders like silverfish and earwigs, and how to keep them out.
¹Treatments and Covered Pests defined in your Plan. Limitations apply. See Plan for details
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