Tools and Materials
Materials
- Caulk
Shallow Pans
- Essential Oils
- Dish Soap
- Pesticides
Effective Ways to Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Follow the steps below to get rid of stink bugs from your house.
Start by inspecting the foundation of your house, windows, doors and any cracks or gaps where stink bugs might enter. Seal these entry points with caulk or weatherstripping to keep them from getting inside. Pay close attention to small gaps, especially around windows and doors, as stink bugs can squeeze through tiny openings.
Make sure that there is proper ventilation when using caulk, especially if it’s solvent-based, to avoid inhalation of fumes.
To increase effectiveness at night, place a flashlight on a flat surface near doors, windows or other entry points. Even soapy water traps can also be a highly effective solution to get rid of stink bugs. Fill shallow containers with soapy water and place them near these areas. The light from the flashlight will attract the bugs, and the soapy water will cause them to sink.
If you have kids or pets, place the traps and flashlights in spots they can’t reach, like on high shelves or inside cabinets. While soapy water is not harmful, it’s always better to keep it out of the way to avoid any spills or accidents.
If you spot stink bugs on the floor or walls, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to quickly remove them. This method avoids squashing the bugs and releasing their unpleasant odor. After vacuuming, empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag to contain the smell. Dispose of the sealed bag in an outdoor trash bin promptly to prevent foul odors indoors.
Ensure the vacuum is suitable for handling pests to avoid any damage or lingering odors in the device.
Mix 1 part of essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus or citronella with 1 part of water in a spray bottle and apply it around doors, windows and areas where stink bugs are present. These natural scents can help repel the insects.
Natural repellents should not be applied to skin and are meant only for non-living objects like furniture, windows or walls. When handling these repellents, wear gloves to protect your skin and wash your hands thoroughly after application to ensure safety.
Stink bugs are often drawn to certain plants like tomatoes and peppers. Check your garden for these and take steps to protect them, such as using natural repellents, covering the plants with nets, or regularly inspecting and removing stink bugs. This way, you can keep your plants safe while minimizing stink bug infestations.
A homemade soapy water spray can be effective if stink bugs are hard to reach, such as those on the ceiling or in small cracks and crevices. However, it’s important to test the spray on a small, hidden area of your ceiling or furniture first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.
Avoid using excessive liquid, as it could potentially harm delicate surfaces or leave watermarks. Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1 part of water and pour the mixture into the spray bottle and spray it directly on the bugs.
To prevent any potential damage, make sure you’re using safety goggles and avoid spraying the solution on delicate surfaces.
Even after trying all the above solutions, if stink bugs persist, you can turn to pesticides designed specifically for stink bugs. Apply them around windows, doors and any other areas where you see a buildup of bugs.
Always follow the instructions carefully for safe use. Keep pets and children away from treated areas until the pesticide has dried. Consider using natural alternatives if you’re concerned about chemicals, and ensure the area is well-ventilated after application. Store the pesticide in a safe place, away from kids and pets.
How to Keep Stink Bugs Away
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively deal with stink bugs in the house and take preventative measures to prevent them from returning. Whether you’re sealing cracks, using natural repellents or calling in experts, these methods will help you regain control of your home from stink bugs.