Stink Bugs in House
While stink bugs seem to have been around forever, they are actually not native to New Jersey or even the US. They only came from Asia in 1998. However, with no major natural enemies, they quickly spread and took residence here.
Stink bugs are now a common sight in and around homes. So if there are stink bugs in house, what do you do? Let’s take a look at the steps you should take and how to prevent stink bugs in the first place.
Why Are Stink Bugs in My House?
If you’re wondering what attracts stink bugs in your house, the answer may surprise you since it’s not the same as many other pests. They aren’t looking to eat the wood in your home or to carry away food you’ve dropped on the floor. They are looking for a warm home.
It’s quite common for stink bugs to come into homes in the cooler months. This is because they are looking for a warm place to spend the winter. So the fall is the time to be on the lookout.
Once inside, they tend to explore and try to find warm places to stay. You might find them on the upper floors or in tight spaces.
The problem with stink bugs is that they are usually not solitary. If you see one or a few inside, chances are there are hundreds or thousands more already in your home or on their way.
How to Prevent Stink Bugs
Seeing one usually means thousands more are present.
The best control for stink bugs is to prevent them from coming inside. You can start by sealing off entry points outside that they could use to enter your home, including near siding, pipes, chimneys, and any other cracks.
You should also make sure to replace or repair any screens that are damaged. This includes the weather stripping and mortar since stink bugs can enter through small spaces. Keeping the outdoor lights off can also help reduce their entry because they are attracted to light.
Reducing moisture and food sources can make your home less appealing to stink bugs. Keeping shrubbery trimmed and firewood away from the house can also make it less likely they’ll stay near your home. Try ventilating any areas they might find hospitable.
Finally, before you bring in boxes or grocery bags inside your home, do a quick check to make sure no stink bugs are hitching a ride.
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs in Your House
Stink bugs don’t pose any risks to you or your family. They mostly only cause damage to crops. However, their odor can become a nuisance for many homeowners. It’s important that you try to get rid of these pests before they become a huge problem.
Many prevention techniques will also help reduce the chance that they come inside, to begin with. However, if you do see stink bugs inside, don’t squish them. This will release the odor that comes from their skin. Instead, vacuum them up.
If the problem persists, you should consider contacting a professional pest control company. They will be able to develop a plan for how to get rid of stink bugs in house.
What to Do if There Are Stink Bugs in House
Prevention is the key to keeping stink bugs from becoming too much of a nuisance. However, if they have already made their way into your home, a professional can take care of stink bugs in house quickly and safely.
Call NJ Pest Control now to get your stink bug problem under control.
