You’ll want to know how to get rid of stink bugs in your home and garden. Stink bugs literally get their name from the foul-smelling odor they release once they are crushed or disturbed.
Additionally, the pheromone they produce not only protects them from predators, but also attracts more stink bugs. That’s why it’s so important to know how to get rid of stink bugs the right way to prevent an infestation.
So what are stink bugs? The brown marbled stink bug is a common household pest. Usually known for their distinctive ‘V’ pattern on their backs, these creatures may enter houses or structures once the weather turns cold, to seek warmth and food. Additionally, these types of stink bugs are harmful to gardens, as they can suck the sap from native plants and feast on homegrown fruits or vegetables, especially if you’re cultivation of tomatoes.
If you haven’t seen one yet, you’ll likely find stink bugs hiding under rocks, window frames, furniture, or wall cracks. While getting rid of stink bugs can be tricky (you don’t want to cause an unpleasant odor!), there are some easy ways to keep them at bay that will take very little time. So if you want to avoid an infestation, here’s how to get rid of stink bugs in your home and garden for good.
If you have other flying pests in your home, find out how to get rid of mosquitoes either how to get rid of fruit flies.
1. Keep the outside clean and clutter-free
Remove weeds, overgrowth, or any other outside debris to keep your backyard tidy.. Rake up piles of leaves and throw them into the compost, and clean up any piles of logs on the ground. Stink bugs love to hide under logs, leaves, and other yard materials, so be sure to remove any potential hiding spots.
2. Seal off any potential entry points
If you have stink bugs in your home, locate potential entry points or openings. These are usually cracks and openings in exterior walls, door or window frames, or even electrical outlets and fixtures. how to learn how to get rid of ants, seal gaps with caulk (a silicone-based formula is recommended for glass) or make any necessary repairs to fix larger openings. Also, close all windows and doors or add screens to prevent stink bugs from entering the house.
3. Create a natural repellent
If you don’t want to use insecticides, you can make a simple homemade solution to deter stink bugs. Simply add one cup of white vinegar and ½ cup of dish soap to two cups of hot water in a spray bottle before spraying directly on the bugs. When using it outdoors, avoid spraying it on sunny days as it can burn your plants.
4. Turn off exterior lights
Stink bugs are usually attracted to outside lights, so avoid leaving lights on when they’re not needed. Alternatively, you could invest in some motion sensor outdoor lights like these BAXIA TECHNOLOGY Wireless Security Motion Sensor Solar Outdoor Lights ($29 (opens in a new tab), Amazon (opens in a new tab)). Also, close your blinds or curtains after dark so that the light from inside your home doesn’t attract these critters.
5. Make a stink bug trap
This DIY trap can come in handy if you have stink bug infestations. Simply fill a foil cooking pan with two inches of water and add a drop of dish soap. Then tilt a lamp so it shines on the surface of the tray and leave it on a flat surface overnight. Since insects are attracted to light, this should draw them into the trap so they are captured and ready to be discarded. This is usually done by flushing it down the toilet.
6. Fill the air with essential oils
Bed bugs hate the scents of essential oils, particularly clove oil, lemongrass oil, spearmint, and ylang ylang oil. Simply add a few drops of essential oil to water in a spray bottle and apply around areas where you have seen stink bugs. Plus, the oils will leave the air smelling fresh and fragrant, which is way better than bed bug smell!
7. Eliminate food sources
Like most pests, stink bugs are attracted to food trails and food sources. Be sure to store perishables in airtight, sealed containers, and dispose of any rotten or overripe fruit in the container. Be sure to clean up spills on countertops right away and wipe down every day. Also, sweep the floors or use one of the best vacuum cleaners to remove crumbs and keep it spotless.
If you’ve tried all of the above and still no luck, it’s time to call in the professionals to help you get rid of stink bugs for good.
What time of year do stink bugs appear?
Stink bugs frequently enter homes beginning in the fall, once the temperature drops. This is mainly to find a warm place during the winter. Although stink bugs are not dangerous to humans, they do multiply quickly, which can be a nuisance in your home. In fact, the marbled brown adult stink bug can live 6-8 months in your home. So make sure you take the necessary precautions to prevent them from trespassing on your property.
When you’re done here, check out our guides on how to quickly get rid of fruit flies, how to get rid of spiders, how to get rid of silverfish, and how to get rid of mice in your home.
