If you’re reading this, you’ve probably asked “How do I get rid of stink bugs?” recently. And if you’ve asked that—we’re going to guess you have a stink bug problem.
The best way to get rid of stink bugs is through a mix of common-sense pest prevention and professional extermination support. While stink bugs aren’t harmful to humans, they are a nuisance. They get stuck in light fixtures, emit an unpleasant odor when threatened, and attract other pests like spiders and rodents. It makes sense that no one wants them as houseguests!
At Bug Man Exterminating, we’ve seen it all. We’re experts on stink bugs and how to get rid of them. We’ve put together a guide of our most frequently asked stink bug questions including how to prevent infestation and remove these pests from your home.
FAQs About Stink Bug Control
How Do I Get Rid of Stink Bugs?
If you’re eager to remove the stink bugs from your home ASAP, here are a couple of approaches that could work:
- Vacuuming up and disposing of the bugs away from your home.
- Place a bucket of soapy water underneath a light and wait for the bugs to drop in.
- Use a bug catcher or trap, which allows you to catch and release stink bugs without harming them.
Insecticides are not recommended to address a stink bug problem. According to Ohio State University, Insecticides “will not stop additional invasions, and exposure of humans and pets to pesticides should be avoided.”
It’s best to leave more pesticide treatment to professionals like Bug Man Exterminating. We offer green pest control solutions that are effective and safe for people and the planet.
Where Do Stink Bugs Come From?
The pungent brown stink bug is native to Asia and was accidentally introduced to the Eastern United States in 1998. In other words, stink bugs are a relatively new problem for American homeowners. Since then, it has spread to 46 states as well as four Canadian provinces. Today, the stink bug has established itself as part of the American ecosystem, invading homes and damaging fruit crops.
Why Are There Stink Bugs in My Home?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, “in early autumn, adult brown marmorated stink bugs look for wintering sites.” Drawn to warm interiors during colder months, stink bugs love to congregate in the warmest parts of your house: the upper floors, near ceilings, or next to lightbulbs.
How Do I Prevent Stink Bug Infestation?
General pest prevention best practices will go a long way in keeping stink bugs out of your home. As a bonus, following these tips will also deter other unwelcome visitors like spiders, rodents, and ants!
Like many other pests, stink bugs are attracted to warmth, light, moisture, and food. Our pest control experts recommend the following steps for healthy stink bug prevention:
- Caulk or seal any cracks or gaps in doors, windows, and walls.
- Install screens on windows and doors and replace damaged screens.
- Keep your house clean and free of clutter.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Dispose of garbage and compost regularly.
- Trim trees and bushes near your home.
- Secure crawl space entries.
Should I Squish Stink Bugs?
It’s really tempting to squish these annoying, smelly invaders but we don’t recommend it. “Crushing stink bugs releases their odor—which can linger for a long time—and will attract other stink bugs,” our expert team advised.
Do Dryer Sheets Get Rid of Stink Bugs?
There’s no scientific proof that dryer sheets are an effective stink bug repellent. Some people recommend rubbing dryer sheets on your window screens and doorways to repel stink bugs. While there may be anecdotal evidence to support this strategy, you’re better off using more effective methods of stink bug control.
Are Stink Bugs Dangerous?
No, stink bugs aren’t dangerous. Again, the EPA weighs in, “while large infestations can be a nuisance, they do not bite people or animals, nor do they damage buildings.”
They may not be dangerous but they are annoying. And there are plenty of cases in which the infestation is too large for DIY strategies alone. In 2011, a senior scientist with the National Wildlife Federation counted all the stink bugs he found in his home over a six-month period. His total came to 26,205 stink bugs!
If you’re dealing with an extreme case like the unfortunate scientist, we recommend hiring a professional who can eliminate stink bugs and prevent them from returning.
Contact Bug Man Exterminating
Stink bugs can be a nuisance in your home and affect your quality of life. If you need help eliminating these unpleasant pests, call us! Bug Man Exterminating has been the Roanoke region’s trusted source for pest control since 1994. We specialize in green pest control solutions and all our experts are extensively trained and fully certified. Don’t suffer with stink bugs, contact us today.