Natural Remedies Against Stink bugs in the House

Drowning

• The least smelly way of ridding the home of stink bugs is also the most labor intensive. Fill a bucket three-fourths of the way full with water. Some homeowners add three to four drops of liquid dishwashing soap to the water, although it isn’t necessary. Use a broom or other item with a long handle to knock the stink bugs off the wall and into the bucket. Those on the floor may be quickly scooped up with a spatula or other tool and dropped into the water. Stink bugs can’t swim and quickly drown.

Vacuum

• Entomologists at Virginia Tech suggest using your vacuum to suck the bugs off the walls, floors, drapes and furniture. The problem with this method is that the stink bugs release their scent, smelling up the vacuum and the home. The scientists suggest replacing the vacuum bag after each use. Once the new bag is in place, sprinkle some perfumed talc, such as room or pet deodorizer, onto the floor and vacuum it up to rid the machine of stink bug odor. If you are the victim of repeated stink bug invasions, invest in an inexpensive shop vacuum and reserve its use exclusively to stink bug removal.

Insecticidal Soap

• While stink bugs don’t hurt people and are considered non-destructive in the home, they may go after your houseplants. Insecticidal soap spray may help discourage stink bugs from feeding on them. These organic insecticides are available at nurseries and gardening centers or you can make your own. Combine 2 tsp. of vegetable oil, 2 tsp. of dishwashing liquid and 2 cups of water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle and spray the plants with it. The oil has a tendency to separate, so shake the bottle periodically as you spray.

Prevention

• Like many pests, stink bugs have the ability to squish their bodies down to fit into tight spaces. Seal all openings to the outdoors to prevent their entry into the home. Virginia Tech entomologists suggest caulking cracks around doors and windows, baseboards and any other area where the bugs may gain entry. Cover roof vents with window screening. Replace screens with holes and seal openings around ceiling fixtures and exhaust fans.