Get Rid Of Crickets: Inside & Outside Your Home

Sep 5, 2025 by Aria Freeman 48 views

Are you hearing those telltale chirps of crickets in your home, guys? Or maybe you're finding these little critters hopping around your yard? Crickets can be a real nuisance, especially when they decide to move indoors. But don't worry, you're not alone, and there are plenty of effective ways to get rid of crickets and keep them from coming back. In this guide, we'll explore everything from natural remedies to professional solutions for cricket control, ensuring your home stays cricket-free. So, let's dive in and learn how to reclaim your peace and quiet!

Understanding the Cricket Problem

Before we jump into solutions, it's crucial to understand what attracts crickets to your home in the first place. These nocturnal insects are drawn to warm, moist environments with plenty of food sources. Think about it: your garden might have lush plants they can munch on, and the dark, damp corners of your basement could be the perfect hiding spots. Understanding these attractants is the first step in effective cricket prevention.

What Attracts Crickets to Your Home?

Moisture: Crickets thrive in damp conditions. Leaky pipes, poor drainage, and humid basements are like a five-star resort for these guys. They need moisture to survive, so addressing any water issues around your home is paramount. You might not think a little dampness is a big deal, but to a cricket, it's everything. Make sure your gutters are clear, your downspouts direct water away from your foundation, and consider a dehumidifier for damp areas.
Food Sources: Crickets aren't picky eaters. They'll munch on plants, other insects, and even crumbs left on the floor. Your garden, especially if it's close to your house, can be a buffet for them. Inside, they'll feast on any organic matter they can find. So, keep your kitchen clean, store food properly, and be mindful of pet food left out overnight. It’s all about making your home less appealing to their appetites.
Warmth and Shelter: Especially during colder months, crickets seek warmth and shelter indoors. Cracks in your foundation, gaps around windows and doors, and even open chimneys can serve as entry points. Once inside, they find cozy spots to hide and breed. Sealing these entry points is a critical step in cricket prevention. Think of your house as a fortress – you want to make it as impenetrable as possible to these unwanted guests.
Lights: Like many insects, crickets are attracted to light, particularly bright outdoor lights. They gather around these lights at night, and if your home is nearby, they might wander inside. This is why you often see them near porch lights or windows. Switching to yellow or sodium vapor lights, which are less attractive to insects, can make a big difference. It's a simple change that can significantly reduce the number of crickets drawn to your property.

By understanding these attractants, you can take targeted steps to make your home less inviting to crickets. It's all about thinking like a cricket – what would make your place the perfect home? Then, do the opposite! This proactive approach is key to long-term cricket control.

Natural Ways to Repel Crickets

If you're looking for natural cricket repellents, you're in luck! There are several effective methods that don't involve harsh chemicals. These options are safe for your family, pets, and the environment, making them a win-win. Let's explore some of the best natural ways to keep crickets away.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Diatomaceous Earth, often called DE, is a powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. It's a completely natural substance that's safe for humans and pets but deadly for insects like crickets. DE works by dehydrating the crickets; when they come into contact with the powder, it damages their exoskeletons, causing them to dry out and die. It might sound gruesome, but it's a highly effective and non-toxic way to get rid of crickets.

How to Use DE: Sprinkle a thin layer of DE in areas where you've seen crickets, such as along baseboards, under appliances, and in cracks and crevices. You can also use it outdoors around your foundation, garden beds, and other potential entry points. Reapply after rain, as DE is only effective when dry. The key is to create a barrier that crickets have to cross.
Safety Precautions: While DE is non-toxic, the dust can be irritating to your lungs and eyes. Wear a mask and gloves when applying it, and avoid breathing in the dust. Once it settles, it's perfectly safe. There are two types of DE: food-grade and filter-grade. Make sure you're using food-grade DE for pest control, as the filter-grade is not safe for this purpose.

Boric Acid

Boric acid is another effective natural remedy for cricket control. It's a naturally occurring compound that disrupts the cricket's digestive system and damages its exoskeleton. Like DE, it's safe for humans and pets when used correctly, but lethal to crickets and other insects. Boric acid is particularly useful in areas where crickets are hiding, such as behind appliances or in wall voids.

How to Use Boric Acid: Sprinkle a thin layer of boric acid powder in areas where you've seen crickets. Be careful not to use too much, as crickets might avoid large piles of the powder. You can also create a bait by mixing boric acid with a sugary substance, like cornmeal, to attract the crickets. Place the bait in areas where crickets are active. Remember, a little goes a long way.
Safety Precautions: Keep boric acid out of reach of children and pets. While it's generally safe, ingestion can cause illness. Wear gloves when applying it to avoid skin irritation, and avoid inhaling the powder. It's crucial to use boric acid responsibly to ensure the safety of your household while effectively controlling crickets.

Essential Oils

Essential oils are a fantastic natural cricket repellent. Many essential oils have insect-repelling properties, and they're a safe and pleasant-smelling alternative to chemical pesticides. Oils like peppermint, neem, and citrus are particularly effective against crickets. The strong scents of these oils disrupt the crickets' senses, making them want to stay away. Plus, your house will smell great!

How to Use Essential Oils: Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray around areas where you've seen crickets, such as baseboards, windowsills, and doorways. You can also soak cotton balls in essential oil and place them in strategic locations, like under sinks or in closets. Reapply the spray or replace the cotton balls every few days to maintain the repellent effect. Experiment with different oils to see which works best for you.
Safety Precautions: Essential oils are highly concentrated, so it's essential to dilute them before use. Direct contact with undiluted oils can cause skin irritation. Keep essential oils out of reach of pets, as some oils can be toxic to animals. When using essential oils, always do a patch test first to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction. And remember, while essential oils are effective repellents, they may not eliminate a large infestation. In severe cases, you might need to combine them with other control methods.

Other Natural Repellents

Besides DE, boric acid, and essential oils, there are other natural cricket repellents you can try. These include:

Molasses Traps: Crickets are attracted to molasses, so you can create a simple trap by mixing molasses and water in a shallow dish. The crickets will be drawn to the sweet scent, fall into the trap, and drown. It's a sticky situation, but it works!
Soapy Water: A mixture of soap and water can kill crickets on contact. Simply spray the solution directly on the crickets, and the soap will disrupt their outer coating, causing them to dehydrate. This is a quick and easy way to deal with individual crickets you spot around your home.
Citrus Peels: Crickets don't like the smell of citrus, so placing citrus peels around your home can help deter them. Place orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels in areas where crickets are active. Replace the peels every few days as they dry out.
Vinegar: Vinegar is another natural repellent that can help keep crickets away. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray around entry points and areas where crickets are present. The strong smell of vinegar will deter them.

By using these natural cricket repellents, you can effectively manage cricket populations without resorting to harsh chemicals. It's a safe, eco-friendly way to keep your home cricket-free.

Getting Rid of Crickets Inside Your Home

So, you've noticed crickets have made their way inside – now what? Don't panic! There are several steps you can take to get rid of crickets indoors and make your home less appealing to them. The key is to address the problem from multiple angles, combining immediate solutions with long-term prevention strategies.

Sealing Entry Points

The first step in any indoor pest control strategy is to seal off potential entry points. Crickets can squeeze through incredibly small spaces, so a thorough inspection of your home's exterior is crucial. Look for cracks, gaps, and openings around windows, doors, pipes, and the foundation. Think of your home as a ship – you need to plug all the holes to keep the unwanted passengers out.

Caulk and Sealants: Use caulk or sealant to fill any cracks or gaps in your foundation, around windows and doors, and where pipes enter your home. This is a relatively inexpensive and easy way to create a barrier against crickets and other pests. Make sure to use a high-quality, weather-resistant sealant for long-lasting protection.
Weatherstripping: Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal gaps and prevent crickets from entering. Weatherstripping is easy to install and can also help improve your home's energy efficiency by reducing drafts. It's a double win – keeping crickets out and saving on your energy bill!
Screens: Ensure that all windows and doors have screens that are in good repair. Replace any damaged or torn screens to prevent crickets from sneaking in. Screens are your first line of defense against many pests, so it's essential to keep them in top condition.
Chimney: If you have a chimney, make sure it's properly sealed when not in use. Crickets and other pests can enter your home through the chimney, so a chimney cap or screen can be a worthwhile investment.

Reducing Indoor Attractants

Once you've sealed entry points, the next step is to reduce the attractants that are drawing crickets into your home. This means addressing moisture issues, eliminating food sources, and managing lighting. Remember, crickets are looking for a comfortable place to live and eat, so you need to make your home less hospitable.

Moisture Control: Fix any leaky pipes or faucets, and consider using a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces. Proper ventilation can also help reduce moisture levels. Crickets thrive in damp environments, so reducing moisture is a key step in cricket prevention.
Cleanliness: Keep your home clean and clutter-free. Sweep and vacuum regularly to remove crumbs and other food debris that might attract crickets. Pay particular attention to the kitchen and pantry, where food is stored. A clean home is less appealing to pests of all kinds.
Food Storage: Store food in airtight containers to prevent crickets from accessing it. This includes pet food, which can be a significant attractant. Don't leave food out on counters or tables, and clean up spills promptly. Proper food storage is essential for overall pest control.
Lighting: Crickets are attracted to light, so minimizing indoor lighting, especially at night, can help deter them. Close curtains or blinds to block light from escaping, and consider using yellow or sodium vapor lights outdoors, which are less attractive to insects.

Traps and Baits

In addition to sealing entry points and reducing attractants, traps and baits can be effective tools for cricket control indoors. These methods can help you capture and eliminate crickets that have already made their way inside.

Glue Traps: Place glue traps in areas where you've seen crickets, such as along baseboards, under appliances, and in dark corners. Crickets will get stuck to the traps and die. Glue traps are a non-toxic option that can be very effective, especially for monitoring cricket activity.
Molasses Traps: As mentioned earlier, molasses traps can also be used indoors. Place a shallow dish filled with a mixture of molasses and water in areas where crickets are present. The sweet scent will attract the crickets, and they will drown in the trap.
Bait Stations: You can purchase commercial cricket bait stations or make your own using boric acid or other insecticides. Place the bait stations in areas where crickets are active, and they will consume the bait and die. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label when using commercial bait stations, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively get rid of crickets inside your home and create a less inviting environment for them in the future. It's all about taking a comprehensive approach that addresses both the immediate problem and the underlying causes.

Getting Rid of Crickets Outside Your Home

Controlling crickets outside your home is just as important as managing them indoors. After all, if you can reduce the cricket population in your yard, you're less likely to have them sneaking inside. Let's explore some effective methods for cricket control in your outdoor spaces.

Yard Maintenance

One of the most effective ways to deter crickets is by maintaining your yard. Crickets thrive in overgrown vegetation and cluttered areas, so keeping your yard tidy can make a big difference. Regular yard maintenance reduces the hiding places and food sources available to crickets, making your property less attractive to them.

Mowing the Lawn: Keep your grass mowed regularly. Tall grass provides shelter for crickets and other pests. A well-maintained lawn is less appealing to crickets, reducing their presence around your home.
Removing Debris: Clear away piles of leaves, woodpiles, and other debris from your yard. These areas provide ideal hiding spots for crickets. By removing these hiding places, you'll make your yard less hospitable to them.
Trimming Vegetation: Trim shrubs and bushes around your home's foundation. Overgrown vegetation provides cover for crickets and can also create a bridge for them to enter your home. Keeping plants trimmed back will help reduce cricket activity near your house.
Managing Mulch: Be mindful of mulch, as it can retain moisture and provide a habitat for crickets. Avoid piling mulch too thickly, and consider using gravel or other non-organic materials in areas close to your foundation. While mulch is great for gardens, it can also create a cozy environment for pests.

Outdoor Lighting

As mentioned earlier, crickets are attracted to light, so managing your outdoor lighting can significantly reduce their presence around your home. Bright lights act like a beacon for crickets, drawing them to your property. By making some simple changes to your outdoor lighting, you can make your yard less attractive to these pests.

Switch to Yellow Lights: Yellow or sodium vapor lights are less attractive to insects than traditional white lights. Consider switching to these types of bulbs for your porch lights and other outdoor fixtures. This simple change can make a big difference in the number of crickets drawn to your home.
Use Motion-Sensor Lights: Motion-sensor lights only turn on when movement is detected, which means they're not constantly attracting crickets. These lights provide security while also minimizing the attraction of pests. They're a great way to light up your yard when needed without creating a constant beacon for crickets.
Minimize Light Use: Whenever possible, minimize the use of outdoor lights. Turn off lights when they're not needed, and consider using timers to control outdoor lighting. The less light you use, the fewer crickets you'll attract.

Natural Repellents

Just like indoors, natural cricket repellents can be effective outdoors. These methods are safe for your family, pets, and the environment, making them a great choice for outdoor pest control. Using natural repellents can help create a barrier around your home, keeping crickets at bay.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Sprinkle DE around your foundation, garden beds, and other areas where crickets are active. Remember to reapply after rain, as DE is only effective when dry. It's a safe and effective way to create a barrier against crickets and other pests.
Essential Oils: Use essential oil sprays around your yard to repel crickets. Mix a few drops of peppermint, neem, or citrus oil with water in a spray bottle, and spray around potential entry points and areas where crickets are present. Reapply every few days to maintain the repellent effect.
Beneficial Nematodes: These microscopic worms are natural predators of crickets and other soil-dwelling insects. Applying beneficial nematodes to your lawn and garden can help control cricket populations. They're a natural and effective way to manage pests without using chemicals.

Professional Pest Control

If you've tried these methods and are still struggling with crickets, it might be time to consider professional pest control. A pest control professional can assess your situation and recommend the best course of action for your specific needs. They have access to specialized treatments and techniques that can effectively eliminate crickets and prevent future infestations.

Inspection: A professional will start with a thorough inspection of your property to identify cricket activity and potential entry points. This inspection will help them develop a targeted treatment plan.
Treatment: Pest control professionals have access to a variety of treatments, including insecticides and baits, that are effective against crickets. They can apply these treatments safely and effectively to eliminate cricket infestations.
Prevention: In addition to treatment, a pest control professional can provide advice and recommendations for preventing future cricket problems. This might include sealing entry points, improving yard maintenance, and managing lighting.

By taking these steps, you can effectively get rid of crickets outside your home and create a less inviting environment for them. Combining yard maintenance, lighting management, natural repellents, and professional help when needed is the key to long-term cricket control.

When to Call a Professional

While many cricket problems can be handled with DIY methods, there are times when it's best to call a professional pest control service. If you've tried various remedies and the cricket infestation persists, or if the problem is particularly severe, a professional can provide the expertise and resources needed to effectively eliminate the pests. Let's explore some situations where professional intervention is recommended.

Persistent Infestations

If you've tried several DIY methods, such as natural repellents, traps, and sealing entry points, and you're still dealing with a cricket infestation, it's time to consider professional help. Persistent infestations often indicate a larger problem that requires more specialized treatment. A pest control professional can assess the situation, identify the root cause of the infestation, and develop a targeted plan to eliminate the crickets.

Large Cricket Populations

A large cricket population can quickly become overwhelming. If you're seeing dozens or even hundreds of crickets around your home, it's unlikely that DIY methods will be sufficient. A professional pest control service has the tools and expertise to handle large infestations effectively. They can apply treatments that will quickly reduce the cricket population and prevent it from rebounding.

Damage to Property

Crickets can cause damage to your property, especially if they're present in large numbers. They can chew on fabrics, paper, and other materials, leading to costly repairs. If you notice signs of cricket damage, such as holes in clothing or chewed-up paper, it's important to address the problem promptly. A pest control professional can not only eliminate the crickets but also provide advice on how to prevent future damage.

Peace of Mind

Sometimes, the biggest benefit of hiring a pest control professional is the peace of mind it provides. Dealing with a pest infestation can be stressful and time-consuming. A professional can take the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to relax knowing that the problem is being handled effectively. They can also provide ongoing maintenance and prevention services to ensure that crickets don't return.

By understanding when to call a professional pest control service, you can ensure that your cricket problem is handled effectively and efficiently. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're struggling to control crickets on your own. It's often the best way to achieve long-term results and protect your home from these unwanted pests.

Conclusion

Dealing with crickets can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can get rid of crickets and keep them from returning. By understanding what attracts crickets, using natural cricket repellents, sealing entry points, and maintaining your yard, you can create a cricket-free environment. Whether you choose DIY methods or professional pest control, the key is to be proactive and persistent. So, go ahead and take the necessary steps to reclaim your home and enjoy a peaceful, cricket-free space! You've got this, guys!