Pee-Yew: How to Deal With a Stink Bug Problem

If you've ever accidentally stepped on a stink bug, you know the strong, pungent odor they release is something you never want to experience again. While brown marmorated stink bugs don't bite or pose a risk to humans, they're considered a nuisance.

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Stink bugs in the house can be extremely frustrating, as these critters are experts at entering homes through the smallest cracks and holes. They also feed on plants and shrubbery and wreak havoc on field crops. If you're in the middle of an invasion, don't stress out just yet.

If you’re ready to rid your home of stink bugs for good, there are several options to consider. Experts say a true stink bug infestation occurs when there are 40 or more bugs present. In these cases, you may want to contact a professional exterminator. They'll have the skills, tools and expertise to locate hidden bugs and eradicate larger infestations.

If you've only spotted a handful here and there, here are some recommended remedies that may help eradicate mini infestations and deter stink bugs from entering your home:

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that consists of the fossils of marine phytoplankton. While the definition is definitely a mouthful, DE is an easy solution to eliminating stink bugs and preventing future infestations. When a stink bug comes in contact with the powder, the DE's scratchy texture breaks through the insect's exoskeleton and dries them out from the inside. Sprinkle a light layer of DE on areas with visible stink bugs and on their suspected entry points. 

Soapy Water

If you've got stink bugs on the walls of your home, placing an open jar filled with warm, soapy water directly beneath the bugs is a simple yet effective pest control trick. When brown marmorated stink bugs feel threatened, their first instinct is to drop downward. If the bugs sense the jar below them, they'll most likely fall into the water. 

Trap and Release

Believe it or not, stink bugs are actually pretty docile. They often sit in the same spots for hours, and they don't bite. If you spot a stink bug or two on a countertop or resting on a wall, place a glass or plastic cup over the insect and slide a piece of paper or a paper plate beneath the rim. Gently flip the cup over so the plate serves as a cover and release the bugs outside.

Whatever You Do: Don’t Squish Them

If you're tempted to stomp out the unwelcome stink bugs, this is a bad idea. The name says it all, as the bugs release their odor as a defense mechanism when threatened or injured. 

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How Do You Prevent Stink Bugs From Coming Back?

After you've sent the stink bugs packing, it's important to take some preventive measures so they don't come knocking as the weather starts to cool down. If you used home remedies to eliminate the initial infestation, it may be a good idea to schedule an inspection with a pest control specialist to ensure every last stink bug has left the building.

Once you have the all-clear, follow these easy steps to help keep your home bug-free throughout the seasons:

Seal Off All Potential Entry Points

Stink bugs are notorious for slipping in undetected through small entry points. Tiny cracks in siding, window gaps, damaged screens and gaps between the door and bottom rail of the doorway are all common points of entry. Use caulk or expandable window foam to seal small cracks and window gaps, and replace or repair any damaged window screens. It's also important to replace any damaged weatherstripping to stop the stink bugs from sneaking in beneath the front door.

Reduce Outdoor Light

While it's definitely important to have some outdoor lighting up and running throughout the night, turning off nonessential lights may help prevent stink bugs from gravitating toward your home. You can also replace your existing outdoor bulbs with yellow bulbs or "bug lights." These bulbs are treated with a special coating that makes the light invisible to insects. 

Keep Your Outdoor Landscaping Properly Maintained

Since stink bugs are known to feed on shrubbery and ornamental trees, keeping your outdoor landscaping clean, clipped and maintained may help prevent their return. Stink bugs also love to hide out in firewood. If you've been storing your wood next to the house, moving it at least 20 feet away may help prevent the bugs from making their way inside.