How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs

If you feel like stink bugs are everywhere these days, you’re not alone. Their population is indeed rising in Tennessee, thanks to the warming temperatures that create perfect conditions for them to multiply. As our lovely state transforms into a stink bug paradise, there’s no cause for alarm. Despite their increasing numbers, they are a relatively minor inconvenience. Stink bugs pose no threat to humans and are quite simple to eliminate.

In this blog, we will discuss the most effective strategies for removing stink bugs from Tennessee homes and businesses.

When Do Stink Bugs Emerge in Tennessee?

Stink bugs typically emerge in early spring, around March or April, as temperatures begin to rise. They become more active during this time as they come out of their overwintering sites to search for food and mates. The warm weather encourages them to reproduce, leading to a noticeable increase in their population throughout the spring and summer months. By late fall, as temperatures drop, stink bugs start seeking shelter to overwinter, often invading homes and buildings to stay warm.

How Can You Get Rid of Stink Bugs?

Dealing with a stink bug infestation can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to manage them. Here are some of the best methods for eliminating stink bugs from your home or business: 

• Eject Them: Seeing a single stink bug? Simply trap it and throw it outside. While this won’t solve a widespread infestation, it can be quite beneficial if just a few bugs are causing you discomfort.
• Squash Them: There’s an ongoing debate about whether smashing stink bugs is advisable. While they will emit a foul odor if crushed, it’s a fast way to handle individual bugs if you can tolerate the temporary smell.
• Vacuuming Them: Using a vacuum with a long hose attachment is an excellent way to deal with stink bugs, especially if you want to avoid getting too close. Be sure to immediately transfer the vacuum contents to a sealed bag to prevent any bugs from climbing out.
• DIY Stink Bug Traps: Because stink bugs aren’t particularly clever, this DIY trap can work wonders when used in the right conditions. Fill a small tray with soapy water and position it under a lamp. The bugs will be attracted to the light, but they’ll end up falling into the water and drowning.
• Indoor Pesticides:  We advise against using pesticides indoors on your own, except as a last resort. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s better to hire a professional stink bug exterminator who can achieve more effective results.

How Can You Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs?

Stink bugs and boxelder bugs often look alike, making it easy to confuse them. Boxelder bugs are generally smaller, with a more elongated body and distinct orange and black markings, while stink bugs are larger, with a shield-shaped body and a more mottled brown or green appearance. Fortunately, their behavior is quite similar, so the techniques for dealing with stink bugs also work for boxelder bugs. 

If you’re dealing with boxelder bugs, feel free to give us a call. Our friendly and knowledgeable pest control exterminators will conduct a full inspection and recommend the best options for your situation. Whether it’s stink bugs, boxelder bugs, or any other pest, we have the treatments to resolve your problem quickly.

Schedule Your Stink Bug Treatment Today

Stink bugs excel at two things: creating a terrible smell and causing you irritation. If you’re sensitive to their odor or have pets that can’t resist them, living with these pests can be quite frustrating. Their presence can make it difficult to enjoy your home, and their odor can linger long after they’ve been removed. Effective control measures are essential to keeping your living space comfortable and odor-free.

If you’re ready for a solution, we’re ready to assist. Call Russell’s Pest Control today to schedule your treatment.