How to Get Rid of Stinkbugs

A yearly occurrence is the proliferation of stinkbugs following the dwindling down of the season. Unlike lanternflies – undeniably destructive pestilences but at least interesting to look at – stinkbugs bear no such distinction. Few profess to actually love them, in contrast to the more endearing katydids or grasshoppers. 

They seep into crevices in homes, loiter around foliage, and wreak havoc on agricultural crops. In recent years, it seems like they have only increased in number, flocking in droves towards homes.

Here's what to do when one of them (or a plague) finds their way into your home. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are stinkbugs? 

The brown marmorated stink bug, the most common type, originated in East Asia, arriving in the United States during the 90s after infiltrating cargo shipments. Most stinkbugs are a mottled brown, with shield-shaped bodies, though some are green. Adults overwinter inside homes, seeking warm, humid locations. Once they locate a site, they release pheromones, signaling others to congregate. 

Preferred overwintering sites: 

• Attics

• Storage areas 

• Behind baseboards

• Underneath siding

• Basements 

Should I kill stinkbugs? 

You might notice stinkbugs in your house – on walls and curtains, or blundering around in a zombified state, bumping into objects. The reason for this behavior is due to diapause, a state of inactivity similar to hibernation. The short answer is yes, you should kill stinkbugs – they’re considered invasive pests and do not have much value. However, do not crush or squash them, as doing so releases a pungent odor and inadvertently attracts more. 

Do I need to call pest control?

In terms of pests, stinkbugs are rather mild, albeit unsightly. They do not cause structural damage, do not bite, nor do they transmit disease, though they can be rather frustrating. They also don’t feed on furniture or reproduce during the winter. If you spot a few flitting about, there’s a possibility that there’s a legion waiting, but don’t be alarmed. In most cases (if there’s only four or five around), stinkbugs can be gotten rid of using DIY methods, without the need for pest control. They can be incapacitated with a spray of water, dish soap, and peppermint oil. Only call professional services if your own methods aren’t working or if you’re seeing large infestations. 

 

Keeping Stinkbugs Out of the Home

1.  Seal Cracks and Crevices 

The first act of prevention is to seal off any entry points. Inspect your home for any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, or vents where stinkbugs might make an opportunistic arrival. In areas with wooden sidling, stinkbugs can be prevented entry by caulking or sealing up cracks. 

2. Vacuum Them   

If you’re the sadistic sort, you can capture them and watch them flounder and drown. One decidedly fun method entails using a portable vacuum to suck up stinkbugs, then emptying them into a bowl of water filled with a few drops of dish soap. Shake it to make sure the mixture becomes soapy. You can also use a plastic bottle filled with a few drops of soap, then go around the house and funnel in stink bugs by hand. A variation of the soapy water method is also recommended if you notice them in the garden – tap the leaves, letting the stink bug fall into the water and drown. 

3. Peppermint Spray 

Common solutions call for a spray made from some combination of water, soap, and essential oil, such as peppermint. Spray any on sight, as well as windows, doors and windowsills. Peppermint is recommended as it repels other common pests, including roaches, spiders, and white flies. 

4. Traps           

If you’re adamant about not spending money on pest control, one inexpensive lesser-known method turns out to be surprisingly effective. The basic premise is to build a simple DIY trap using household supplies: a foil pan or bowl of water, detergent, and a desk lamp. After mixing in the detergent, shine the desk lamp towards the water. Stinkbugs that find themselves unwittingly lured by the light must have envisioned it a warm paradise before realizing the sordid truth – a rapid death. Researchers from the College of Agricultural Sciences at Virginia Tech found that this setup eliminated 14 times more stink bugs than store-bought traps that cost up to $50. 

5. Neem Oil 

Neem oil, a natural, plant-based repellent, can be used to get rid of stinkbugs, both in the garden and indoors. Combine 32 ounces water and two teaspoons neem oil and spray around points of entry. However, this is not considered the most effective approach compared to other methods, as stinkbugs sometimes avoid plants sprayed with neem oil. 

6. Diatomaceous Earth 

Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be used to get rid of stinkbugs. The fine crystals break down their exoskeletons, causing dehydration. Spread around windowsills, doorways, and gaps both inside and outside. 

7. Mesh Cover 

In the garden, stinkbugs tend to gravitate towards a variety of plants, including tomatoes, squash, and peppers. A mesh cover can deter stinkbugs and other pests while enhancing plant growth.