Sniff, sniff.
What’s that smell?
Stink bugs are, unfortunately, common and unwanted household pests that invade homes during the late fall. Many homeowners start to see these pests pop up around early spring as the weather outside grows warm.
Knowing how to get rid of stink bugs can save your home from a substantial invasion, as these pests habitually infest homes every year.
Want to learn the top tips on how to get rid of stink bugs? Keep reading to find out more!
Stink bugs often become a nuisance when they find their way into homes. But why are they here in the first place? From seasonal changes to easy access, you may spot these smelly pests inside for many reasons.
Knowing why you have stink bugs is just one piece of the puzzle. Learning how to eliminate stink bugs accurately can help you avoid long-lasting problems throughout the winter and spring months.
While difficult house guests, there are a few things you can do to rid your house of stink bugs. Keep reading to learn our top tips and tricks for stink bug prevention and removal! Plus, Zunex is always a call away when you have pest problems like stink bugs.
Stink bugs can exploit tiny gaps, cracks, or openings in windows, doors, and other areas. You may see a surge in pest activity during the fall as they seek shelter indoors from the dropping temperatures.
Carefully inspect your home's exterior, paying close attention to areas where stink bugs may congregate. Using caulk, weather stripping, or sealant, close these openings to create a barrier preventing stink bugs from gaining access.
Regular maintenance is vital; even small gaps can be enough for stink bugs to squeeze through. A little DIY treatment can keep your home stink bug-free and may even prevent a stray draft from slipping through during the winter!
Installing screens on doors, windows, and vents can physically block stink bugs from entering your living spaces. Mesh screens serve as a barrier, allowing fresh air to flow while keeping stink bugs and other pests out.
Make sure these screens are properly fitted around your windows or doors. Carefully inspect them to ensure they’re free from tears and gaps around the edges.
Avoid leaving windows or doors without screens or other barriers during stink bug seasons. No gap is too tiny for these pests, and they’ll surely slip through larger openings if they can. You can enjoy the fresh air with screens and avoid gaining new bug roommates!
Who knew stink bug control could be so easy? One practical and hands-on way to eliminate stink bugs involves a common household appliance you probably already use daily: a vacuum cleaner.
Using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, gently suck up any stink bugs you see. We recommend using a vacuum with a removable and sealable bag or canister to contain the stink bug’s defensive odor.
Quickly remove or dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash bin to minimize the unpleasant smell indoors. Plus, you don’t want these pests escaping and crawling back into your home to invade again.
While vacuuming is a quick and direct way to eliminate stink bugs, remember that it will not prevent other pests from returning or even eliminate the existing infestation. You must combine this method with other preventative measures to keep them away.
To make a simple trap, fill a shallow dish with soapy water and place it under a light source, such as a desk lamp or nightlight. Stink bugs, drawn to the light, will inadvertently land in the water and be unable to escape as the soap reduces the water's surface tension, preventing stink bugs from floating.
Regularly empty and refresh the trap to ensure it stays effective and doesn’t start to stink. Make sure to properly place the light and cords away from the water to prevent accidental spillage– we want to get rid of stink bugs and stay safe along the way!
Insecticidal soap can break down the protective coatings of insects, including stink bugs, causing them to dehydrate and die. To create an insecticidal soap spray, mix a solution of mild liquid soap and water in a spray bottle.
When you spot stink bugs on walls, windows, or other surfaces, spray the solution directly on them. It's important to note that while this method is effective, it may require repeated applications, especially if you have a significant stink bug presence in your home.
Peppermint, eucalyptus, and neem oil have strong scents that stink bugs dislike. Mix a few drops of your chosen oil with water in a spray bottle to create a DIY essential oil spray. Shake well and apply the spray around windows, doors, and other potential entry points.
Reapply this product regularly, as the scent will fade over time. While essential oils can help deter stink bugs, their effectiveness might vary, and you may need to combine this approach with other methods for optimal results.
Herbs like mint, lavender, and bay leaves are unpleasant for stink bugs. Create these sachets by placing dried herbs inside small fabric pouches or even old socks. Position them near windows, doors, and other openings where stink bugs might try to enter.
As air circulates, the herbal scents disperse and discourage stink bugs from approaching. This method helps keep stink bugs at bay and adds a pleasant aroma to your home. Just remember to replace or refresh the herbs periodically.
Place strips of double-sided tape along window sills, door frames, and other potential entry points. When stink bugs crawl over the tape, they'll become stuck and unable to move.
While low-cost and chemical-free, this approach might not be as effective in high-stink bug activity areas.
Citrus fruits can create a natural stink bug-repellent spray with their pungent scents. Blend citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or grapefruits with water to create a citrus-infused mixture.
Put the mixture into a spray bottle, then use it around windows, doors, and where bugs might get in. The strong citrus smell can stop stink bugs from coming close to your home.
If your stink bug infestation is severe or persistent, seek professional pest control assistance. Here at Zunex, we know how to get rid of stink bugs and other pests quickly– letting you enjoy your home again.
Getting rid of stink bugs isn’t easy, but using these DIY techniques and our services can help make your home pest-free in no time! Contact us today for more information on our general pest control services!
.png)
