Earthworms are incredibly beneficial residents of the soil. According to the National Wildlife Federation, these slimy wriggling creatures help break down dead and decaying organic matter into rich humus soil, thereby supporting plant growth. They also dig tiny channels and make holes that aerate the soil and improve drainage. Interestingly enough, earthworms do not have lungs - they breathe through their skin. They also lack eyes and instead use receptors in their skin to sense light and touch. Earthworms have five so-called hearts that pump blood through their bodies. Deepak Sharma from Indian Pest Control Company shared that earthworms are slender, with segmented, reddish-brown or pinkish bodies. Generally 3-12 cm long with no legs, they wiggle or stretch when touched. They are odourless and non-aggressive creatures. Shedding light on why earthworms enter our houses, Sharma said that moisture is a big reason. "They love damp places. Monsoon season or leaky areas inside your home attract them. In fact, when the ground outside is waterlogged and the soil gets flooded, they escape into relatively drier zones that are damp—often your home," he said. Cracks and gaps, and other openings in the foundation, bathroom drains, or tiles give them easy access. Once inside, you can find earthworms hiding underneath your bathroom mats, near drains or floors corners, damp basements or store rooms, or behind washing machines or sinks. "They try to avoid light and seek dark, moist, undisturbed spots," said Sharma. How can you get rid of them? Sharma shared a 5 step plan to help you get rid of earthworms at your place: 1. Reduce moisture: Fix leaks and improve ventilation and use a dehumidifier, if needed. 2. Seal entry points: Check gaps around doors, drains, and windows. Use silicone sealant where needed. 3. Improve drainage: Make sure water doesn’t collect around the house foundation. 4. Natural repellents: Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or salt near entry points (avoid overuse—salt can damage tiles and plants). 5. Keep the area clean and dry: Earthworms don’t survive in dry surfaces. Some common mistakes to avoid According to Sharma, using harsh pesticides is a big no-no. "Earthworms are not pests in the traditional sense. In fact, they’re good for your garden—just not inside the house," he said, adding that most people tend to ignore structural leaks or wet corners. Also, he warned against killing earthworms without sealing entry points first, or else they will just come back. Leaving food or waste water near doorways or drains is another common mistake that ends up encouraging worm activity.
