How to Kill Stinkbugs in Your House Where Pets Are Present

Vacuum

• You can control stinkbug populations in your home by vacuuming frequently, though most pets do not enjoy the sound of a vacuum. Use a standard or handheld vacuum to eradicate stinkbugs. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately following a thorough cleaning. Do this as often as necessary to remove stinkbugs from your home.

Soapy Water Jar

• Fill a medium-size jar at least halfway with soapy water made from liquid hand soap or liquid dish soap. You can also dump soap scraps into a jar with water to create a soapy mixture. Stinkbugs do not bite or sting, though they will emit an odor if handled. Rather than touching stinkbugs, use a jar rim to nudge the stinkbugs into the jar. If the rim itself is not enough, use a piece of paper to coax the bugs into the jar. Once the jar is full of dead stinkbugs, pour the mixture onto your compost pile or flush the jar contents down your toilet.

Diatomaceous Earth

• Diatomaceous earth is not toxic to humans or pets, though it equals death for most bug species. Inhaling the stuff is bad for you, however, so wear a dust mask while applying the earth around your home. It is not harmful to humans or pets once it has settled. Diatomaceous earth is the remains of fossilized, microscopic "diatoms" or algaelike plants. These remains have razor edges that slice into insect bodies, or they destroy the insects from the inside out if consumed. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around areas of your home stinkbugs appear, such as the attic, and focus on trap door and window openings.

Preventative Measures

• Take steps to prevent stinkbugs from entering your home such as sealing door frames and window cracks with caulk. Other preventative measures include installing screens on doors and windows, and over vents. Plug your chimney when it's not in use to keep stinkbugs from entering your home. Remove all window air conditioning units, as this is a favored method of stinkbug home entrance.