Although stink bugs pose zero threat to human health, an infestation could cause a nuisance and interfere with peaceful living. So you might be wondering if you should fumigate for stink bugs in your residential properties and offices. After thorough research, here's an answer we found.
House owners can fumigate for stink bugs to kill them as well as prevent and control an infestation. You should consider fumigating for stink bugs even when you suspect an infestation in your home.
Hang on and keep reading as you will learn how to properly fumigate stink bugs as well as how to find a stink bug nest.
What Are Stink Bugs?
Stink bugs are native to Japan, China, Korea, and some other Asian countries. The insect migrated into the USA sometime in the late1990s, and since then has become a common household pest for Americans.
Stink bugs are dark brown from the top with a creamy-white brown underside. There's also variation in colors ranging from copper to red, grey, etc. You can easily identify this insect, thanks to its heraldic shield shape.
These insects are harmless but produce a defensive chemical known for its unpleasant smell when they are threatened or crushed. The stink smells similar to coriander and can irritate your eyes and skin.
And this is why fumigating for stink bugs is necessary, especially when there's an infestation. You do not want those pungent smells in your house.
Can You Fumigate For Stink Bugs?
As mentioned before, stink bugs do not bite or sting humans. And there are different species with the brown marmorated stink bugs being the commonest. These insects are invasive and can become a problem in residential areas.
As a result, you can eliminate them by fumigation. Note that pest control is not the same as fumigation. In simple terms, fumigating stink bugs involves the use of gaseous chemicals to kill the insects.
When done properly, the process is effective and safe for humans. Make sure to read the section on how to get rid of stink bugs to avoid accidents.
Why is My House Infested With Stink Bugs?
There are many reasons why your house may become infested with stink bugs. Many people think stink bug infestations come from poor hygienic practices but that is wrong. The major reason stink bugs come to your house is that they want a place to keep warm in winter.
Just like humans, these insects need warmth during the cold season and your house seems a good fit. When a stink bug finds a place to keep warm, it releases a pheromone to attract more stink bugs into your house causing an infestation.
Here are other reasons why your house is infested with stink bugs.
Natural Elements
Stink bugs love natural settings and you will often find them in places like under a rocky crevice, or the bark of a dead tree. And yes, they will mistake your house for a hangout spot if it is made of natural materials.
Houses made of synthetic materials are less likely to attract stink bugs than houses with dark colors and made of natural materials.
Light
The lights are another good reason stink bugs may infest your house. Stink bugs are attracted to bright lights, especially at night. So if you suspect an infestation, it is best to minimize the exterior lights at night.
Green Spaces
Shrubs, orchards, agricultural fields, gardens, and the like, are favorite spots for stink bugs. Because they feed on plants, houses with green spaces are the go-to for warmth.
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Follow these processes to get rid of stink bugs.
Seal the entry points: Start by inspecting your house for open cracks and holes. Make sure to pay attention to places around utility pipes, chimneys, doors, and windows. Use high-quality silicone caulk to seal the entry points.
Allow ventilation: Crawl spaces, garages, attics, and basements should be well-ventilated to prevent sink bug infestations. You can also dehumidify such places for the best results.
Reduce exterior lights: Make sure to put off the lights before you go to bed because bright lights attract stink bugs. Pull down window blinds to stop the lights from spilling outside.
Remove access to food: Store your foods in airtight containers to prevent easy access. Avoid leaving out crumbs or spills in your home. And when disposing of garbage, try using sealed receptacles.
Proper cleaning routine: Do weekly inspections immediately if you suspect stink bug infestations. Check for clogged drains, overgrown bushes, leaky pipes, and so on.
Can You Bomb Your House For Stink Bugs?
While some people make use of aerosol-type bombs to kill stink bugs, these are not safe to use. Bombs are not labeled for killing stink bugs because of their toxicity. They can be effective when used to get rid of stink bugs in your house, but the side-effects are unpleasing.
Furthermore, it does not stop a future infestation in your house. It's best to fumigate for stink bugs and not bomb your house.
Can an Exterminator Get Rid of Stink Bugs?
An exterminator specializes in getting rid of pests from buildings. Because they are professionals at what they do, they know the right chemical to use for fast results. They also have hands-on experience with varying methods most suitable for a particular pest.
Note that exterminators also use natural methods to get rid of insects and pests in the house. However, it boils down to the type of pest, the degree of the infestation, and the size of the infested house.
You should consider using an exterminator to get rid of stink bugs in your house if you can afford it. It is reliable, faster, less stressful, and cheap.
How Do I Permanently Get Rid of Stink Bugs?
Here's what to do to permanently get rid of stink bugs in your home.
Use Essential Oil
Using essential oil to get rid of stink bugs not only guards your house against the insect but keeps it smelling nice on a low budget. Stink bugs find essential oil repulsive, so they will keep away from your home.
Put 10 drops of essential oil in 16 ounces of water and mix thoroughly. Pour into a spray bottle and apply at every corner of your house. Examples of essential oil to use are lavender, rose, myrrh, cedar wood, etc.
Use Garlic
Garlic is also very effective in getting rid of stink bugs. All you need to do is mix 2 cups of water and 4 teaspoons of garlic powder. Pour into a sprayer and apply at the entry points. You can also use garlic cloves as an alternative to garlic powder.
Use Neem Oil
Another effective way to get rid of stink bugs is using neem oil. However, this DIY method takes longer to get rid of the insects because it works by interfering with their instincts. Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil in 32 ounces of water, and spray at all entry points. Repeat twice daily for best results.
Spread Diatomaceous Earth
This is a natural pesticide powder effective for getting rid of stink bugs and all kinds of impulsive pests. It works by breaking the protective exoskeleton of the bugs. Make sure you place the spread diatomaceous earth at strategic locations. A good example is at the entrance of your house.
Use Dryer Sheets
Dryer sheets give off a kind of smell that repels stink bugs. How to use the dryer sheets to get rid of stink bugs? Rub the dryer sheets on your windows and entry points.
Vacuum Regularly
A vacuum cleaner can get rid of stink bugs from the floors, windows, and walls. This method is effective in preventing an infestation. And it is a safe way of getting rid of their smells.
Do Stink Bugs Lay Eggs in Your House?
Generally, no. Stink bugs breed during the warm season outside your house. The insects come into your house for warmth during the cold season and most times they are inactive throughout this period- no breeding. Once winter is over, they find their way back to the green spaces and lay their eggs.
How Do You Find a Stink Bug Nest?
During winter, stink bugs can find their way into your house through the vents, windows, door frames, and walls cracks and crevices, and hide inside the walls. So you will likely find a stink bug nest inside your walls, crawl spaces, and ceilings.
To Wrap Up
Like every other insect pest, stink bug infestation may be difficult to get rid of. The trick is to act quickly once you begin to suspect stink bugs in your house.
Always remember that getting rid of stink bugs using an exterminator is more reliable and faster. You can also decide to fumigate yourself, but make sure to use the right chemicals and handle them properly.
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