Stink bugs can be a common nuisance pest in certain areas. As their name implies, they can also emit an unpleasant odor when crushed. There are several strategies you can use to eliminate the problem and avoid any odors associated with these pests.

Reduce Entry Points

The most important tactic you can use to reduce stink bugs is to prevent them from coming inside your home. Check both inside and outside your home for cracks and other ways these bugs can sneak inside. Smaller cracks, such as those that might be in your foundation, can be filled with caulking. For example, if you will buy caulking for the foundation, make sure it is intended for outdoor use and is resistant to moisture.

Other areas that may need to be secured are areas around windows and doors. Some types of caulking can be applied around window frames to minimize gaps between the window and frame. A door sweep can reduce gaps underneath the door, but you may also want to add a snug-fitting storm door as an additional barrier.

Eliminate Breeding Grounds

Stink bugs enjoy vegetation, so you should be mindful of places around your home where they can have a food or nesting spot. Routinely keep your grass cut during the warmer months, and rake leaves during the cooler months so the bugs have fewer places to hide. If you have a garden or ornamental plants, either plant them further away from the foundation of your home or regularly trim them back so there are fewer hiding places against your home. You should also consider professional services to control stink bugs. They may have options that would kill the bugs while being safe for your plants.

Be Gentle

With proper pest control services, you can control or eliminate the nuisance of stink bugs. However, in the meantime, you may have the occasional bug enter your home. You can purchase sprays formulated to be effective against stink bugs. After you spray the bug and it has died, you should be gentle when disposing of the bug to avoid releasing an unpleasant smell. Simply scoop up the bug with a sheet of paper or use a paper towel to grab it without crushing it, and either toss it outside or flush it down the toilet. If stink bugs are currently a major problem, you may want to try foggers to kill them since the fogger will disburse the pesticide over a wider area.

If stink bugs are causing a stink in your home, there are multiple strategies to reduce or eliminate the problem. In addition to preventing them from entering your home, use professional services, and be careful about the way you dispose of these bugs.