Stink bugs can be small, but they can leave a big impact on your home. In fact, it’s their reputation that most often causes major issues for homeowners. If you’ve ever been unfortunate enough to crush one and become familiar with that infamous odor, you know just how much of a pest they can be.
In this article, we’ll answer all of your burning questions: What are stink bugs? Why do they invade homes? How can you prevent them from coming in? What can homeowners do to get rid of them?
We’ll answer all these questions and more.
Meet the Culprits: Stink Bugs
Stink bugs are also known as Halyomorpha halys. They’re an invasive species that originally hails from Asia, but now covers much of the U.S. They are recognizable by their shield-like shape and mottled brown color.
Stink bugs are harmless to both people and pets, but they can still be a major annoyance to homeowners. This is because, while they like to spend their time outdoors during the spring and summer months, feasting on gardens and crops, they begin to seek out shelter in the fall. They usually find their way into homes and other buildings to overwinter.
Why Are Stink Bugs So Nuisance?
Homeowners don’t just have to deal with the appearance of stink bugs. If you happen to come into contact with these bugs, they’ll release their foul-smelling odor as a defense mechanism. It’s a way for them to deter predators, but not for homeowners trying to remove them.
On top of that, stink bugs can:
- Amass in large numbers indoors, usually hidden in walls or attics
- Damage your gardens or houseplants
- Invade your home and fly clumsily around your rooms in the winter, if the weather warms up for a period of time
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
The best way for homeowners to deal with stink bugs is to never let them in in the first place. Here are some time-tested ways to keep your home stink bug free:
Seal up the entry points
- Check your doors, windows, and siding for cracks or gaps
- Fill gaps around windows and utility pipes with caulk
- Add weather stripping to keep out drafts
Repair your window and door screens
Stink bugs can fit through even the tiniest of tears in screens. Make sure to replace any rips, or even upgrade to thicker mesh for better results.
Switch your outdoor lighting
Stink bugs and other insects are attracted to light, so switch to yellow-hued bulbs outdoors, and turn off unneeded lights at night.
Tend to your garden
Stink bugs love fruits, vegetables, and ornamental flowers, so it’s important to care for your garden. Remove fallen or overripe produce right away, and use row covers during peak infestation times.
The Battle Plan: How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs for Homeowners
Even if you do your best, there’s always the chance that a few stink bugs will find their way into your home. If this is the case, homeowners have several safe and effective methods for ridding their homes of them before they set up residence.
Vacuum Cleaner Heroics
If you don’t want to make your home smell like a skunk, using your vacuum to suck up stink bugs is a great idea. Just be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately.
Soap to the Rescue
A mixture of water and mild dish soap is a simple yet powerful weapon in your stink bug battle. Fill a spray bottle and spray stink bugs directly. The soapy water will break down their outer coating.
Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is an all-natural powder that dehydrates and kills stink bugs. Sprinkle it around any potential entry points to stave them off.
Natural Repellents
It’s no secret that natural ingredients, like citrus and peppermint, can also work to repel stink bugs. If you grow basil, catnip, or mint, you can also use them to your advantage. Place a few pots near your doorways or windows.
Call the Pros
If you find yourself battling stink bugs and they’re coming at you in hordes, it’s time to call in Steel City Pest. Our professional exterminators use safe, effective products and treatments to keep your home pest-free year round.
How to Get Rid of Stink Bug Odor
Stink bug odor is a major issue for homeowners, but it’s important to note that you can take steps to reduce or eliminate it. Here are some tips:
- Don’t Squish Stink Bugs: Avoid crushing stink bugs at all costs to prevent the odor. Pick them up with a vacuum or by capturing them in a container.
- Ventilate Rooms: Open windows and use fans to circulate air in the room. This will help to disperse the odor quickly.
- Clean Affected Areas: Use a solution of vinegar and water or a mild detergent to clean surfaces that stink bugs have come into contact with.
- Odor Absorbers: Use bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or coffee grounds to absorb the smell. Place them near the affected area and replace them as needed.
Why Professional Pest Control is the Best Option
As you can see, there are several DIY options for getting rid of stink bugs. However, most often these pesky intruders come back year after year to visit. This is why professional pest control is your best bet because it offers:
- Long-lasting, protective barrier treatments
- The safest, most effective products not found in stores
- Peace of mind for homeowners
Professional pest control experts like Steel City Pest understand stink bugs. We know what makes them tick and how to deal with them.
Final Thoughts: Homeowners vs. Stink Bugs
Stink bugs can be just another seasonal annoyance, but it’s their tenacity that often makes them one of the most frustrating pests for homeowners to deal with. With a little prevention, some natural remedies, and the help of your pest control pros, you can keep your home fresh and free of them.
Just remember: seal those cracks, keep your lights off, and tend to your garden. If a few still sneak by, it’s time to break out the vacuum or soapy water spray. But if things get out of hand, Steel City Pest is just a phone call away.
Homeowners now have everything they need to breathe easy, and live in a home that smells great instead of bad.
