How to Keep Those Pesky Stink Bugs Out of the House

by M.C. Millman

As you have likely noticed, if you are a Rockland resident, stink bugs frequently seek refuge indoors when the weather gets cooler as they search for a warmer location for the winter. 

While these large bugs do not pose health concerns or damage homes, they have a smelly reputation, a disturbing large size, and create quite a buzz when flying. The trick is to be careful not to disturb them. They may release their pungent odor, described in a number of ways, including having a strong resemblance to cilantro or burnt tires. The smell has also been described as acridly sweet or akin to skunk spray. They also tend to cause quite a ruckus when they fly around, bumping into corners, ceilings, and light fixtures. 

Here are some top tips for preventing a stink bug infestation and dealing with more of them than you have to in your home. 

Seal off entry points - Check the outside of your home for easy access points. Focus on areas behind chimneys, around siding and utility pipes, and underneath the wood fascia or other openings. Cracks and holes should be sealed as soon as possible, and you should consider installing door sweeps if necessary. It's also a good idea to place fine mesh over air vents to prevent stink bug entry. 

Repair and Replace - Even the smallest openings invite stink bugs to enter a home. Damaged screens should be repaired or replaced. Torn weather stripping and loose mortar are other possible entry points to watch out for and repair.

Turn off the lights - Outdoor lighting should be kept to a minimum since stink bugs are attracted to light. If there is a safety concern, consider switching out the exterior light bulbs for sodium-vapor lights or yellow bulbs, which are not as attractive to the bugs. It can also be helpful to pull down window blinds to keep the indoor light from spilling outside. 

Use light as a trap - Alternatively, use light to attract and trap the bugs. Fill up a wide dish with soapy water and place a light over it. When the stink bugs fall off the light, they will drop into the water and drown.

Use Essential Oil - Mint essential oil repel stink bugs without killing them. Mix ten drops of mint essential oil with 16 ounces of water in a spray bottle. Then spray around interior entry zones like window frames and doors. This safe and nonpoisonous tip will keep the stink bugs away and freshen your home simultaneously.

Use Dryer Sheets - Rub a dryer sheet on window screens or other entry points to prevent the bugs from coming into your home. The scent repels the bugs.

Use a vacuum - A vacuum cleaner is the best way to get rid of multiple stink bugs without getting too close or risking a stinky situation. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum's contents immediately because even dead stink bugs leave a smelly residue which will attract more of its compatriots. 

Consider chemicals - If nothing else seems to work, there are chemical sprays to kill stink bugs. Sprays should be used near common entry points like doors, windows, or other areas where you notice the bugs congregate. 

Stink bugs are bound to bug nearly everyone - so make sure to keep these suggestions in mind as the days get colder and stink bugs decide to make themselves at home.