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 squashed 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 marmorated stink bug is a common household pest. Typically known by their distinctive 'V' pattern on their back, these creatures may enter homes or structures once the weather turns cold, to search for warmth and food. Additionally, this type of stink bug is harmful to gardens as it can suck sap from native plants and feast on homegrown fruits or vegetables, especially if you are growing tomatoes.
If you haven't seen one yet, you'll likely find stink bugs hiding under rocks, window frames, furniture, or cracks in walls. 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 you 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, learn how to get rid of gnats or how to get rid of fruit flies.
1. Keep the outside clean and clutter-free
Rake leaves on the lawn(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Remove weeds, overgrowth or any other exterior debris to keep your backyard tidy..Rake piles of leaves into compost, and clean up any piles of logs on the ground. Stink bugs love to hide under logs, leaves, and other garden materials, so be sure to eliminate any potential hiding places.
2. Seal any possible entry points
Sealing window base with caulking gun(Image credit: Shutterstock)
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. Just like learning how to get rid of ants, seal gaps with caulk (a silicone-based formula is recommended for glass) or make any necessary repairs to patch larger openings. Also, close all windows and doors or add screens to them to prevent stink bugs from entering the house.
3. Create a natural repellent
white vinegar and spray bottle(Image credit: Shutterstock)
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 the outside lights
Signature Garden Solar Sidewalk Garden Lights(Image credit: Signature Garden)
Stink bugs are usually attracted to outdoor lights, so avoid leaving lights on when not needed. Alternatively, you could invest in some motion sensor outdoor lights like these BAXIA TECHNOLOGY Wireless Security Solar Motion Sensor Outdoor Lights ($29(opens in a new tab),Amazonas(opens in a new tab)). Also, close blinds or curtains after dark so that the light inside your home does not attract these bugs.
5. Make a stink bug trap
Stink bugs on the surface(Image credit: Shutterstock)
This DIY trap can come in handy if you have stink bug infestations. Simply fill an aluminum 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 pan and leave it on a flat surface overnight. Since the bugs are attracted to light, this should draw them into the trap so they are captured and ready to be disposed of. This is usually done by flushing it down the toilet.
6. Fill the air with essential oils
Essential oil bottles(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Bed bugs hate the scents of essential oils, particularly clove oil, lemongrass oil, spearmint oil, and ylang ylang oil. Simply add a few drops of essential oil to water in a spray bottle and spray it around the areas where you've seen stink bugs. Plus, the oils will leave the air smelling fresh and fragrant, which is way better than the smell of bed bugs!
7. Eliminate food sources
Fruit bowl with bananas(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Like most pests, stink bugs are attracted to food traces and food sources. Make sure to store perishable goods in airtight, sealed containers, and throw away any rotten or overripe fruit in the container. Make sure to clean up spills on countertops right away, and clean daily. Also, sweep the floor 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 haven't had any luck, it's time to call the professionals to help you get rid of stink bugs for good.
What time of year do stink bugs appear?
Stinky bug on screen(Image credit: Shutterstock)
Stink bugs frequently enter homes starting in the fall, once the temperature drops. This is mainly to find a warm place during winter. Although stink bugs are not dangerous to humans, they multiply quickly, which can be a nuisance in your home. In fact, the adult brown marmorated stink bug can live for 6 to 8 months in your home. So be sure to take the necessary precautions to prevent them from invading your property.
When you're done here, check out our guides on how to get rid of fruit flies quickly, how to get rid of spiders, how to get rid of silverfish, and how to get rid of mice in your home.
