How to Protect Your Home During Stink Bug Season

Anyone who’s ever had stink bugs in their home has probably immediately wondered how to get rid of stink bugs. It’s no big mystery why; after all, though stink bugs don’t bite or sting, they smell… well, not good. What else is not good? It’s fall, aka sting bug season, where the pesky insects make their way into homes (maybe even your home) to seek warm shelter.

What are stink bugs?

Native to Asia, stink bugs only first arrived in the United States back in the 1990s, but now they appear in 44 states, sharing their wretched scent with far too many homeowners. The problem with stink bugs is that even if you swat them or squash them like you would a fly or an ant, they leave their stink behind even after they’re dead. Yuck!

Because they can be difficult to get rid of, experts say prevention is key. To prevent stink bugs from making an appearance in the first place, make sure all the cracks around windows, doors, siding, utility pipes, chimneys, and any other openings are all sealed up. High quality silicone or silicone-latex caulk are good options to make sure the critters don’t creep in. It’s also a great idea to replace and repair any broken screens on windows and doors.

But if stink bugs are already in your home, the good news is that you have options.

How to get rid of stink bugs

Some experts recommend using a tissue or a plastic bag to gently catch the bugs. Then, you can dispose of them outside, where their smell won’t disturb your home.

If you’re too afraid they’ll find their way back into your house, you can also try flushing them down the toilet after you (gently) catch them.

Another option is to vacuum up the stink bugs. The caveat to this choice is that you have to empty the bag quickly outside. Otherwise, expect your vacuum to reek to high heavens.

Some folks swear by trapping them in a straight-sided container full of soapy water and drowning them.

If all else fails, call an exterminator.

h/t House Beautiful

NEXT: Find out some quick ways to keep your home warm in these colder months.

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