Stink bugs in my room, what do I do? Easy—this post will guide you through so you get rid of this bug permanently. Stink bugs are annoying pests that emit a foul odor when they feel threatened or if they’re squashed. During the winter, they often invade the small gaps and cracks of your home’s exterior. By the time spring rolls around, they could turn the inside of your house into a stink bug hotspot.
You really have to get rid of stink bugs without crushing them. In this post, we’re going to see how to identify signs of stink bug activity, how to treat them, and how to prevent future infestations.
Stink Bugs in My Room!
The brown marmorated stink bug is the most common type of stink bug. These bugs can grow up to 17 millimeters long. They have a body shape like a stout shield and are mostly brown with a speckled pattern. While some stink bugs might be green or red, most have this shield-like shape. Be careful not to squash a stink bug because it will let out a bad smell.
Start by checking the outside of your building. Pests that stay over the winter might get into your home through things like vents or chimneys. They can also come in through gaps in walls, door seals, window frames, places for utilities, and cracks in the foundation. Also, look for any window screens that are damaged or missing. Inside, look for signs of pests. Pests that stay over the winter will gather near warm places or hide in small cracks. You should check behind and under big appliances that get warm, under plumbing, behind electrical plates, and in your cabinets and cupboards. Lastly, check places in your home that you don’t go to often, like the attic or basement, for hidden spots in tight areas.
Why am I getting stink bugs in my room?
As for how stink bugs enter your room, they usually sneak in through small openings. This includes cracks, crevices, gaps around foundations, window and door frames, soffits, attics, and even beneath the siding.
Houses near agricultural fields, fruit orchards, large gardens, or areas with infested ornamental shrubs and trees that attract stink bugs often see larger numbers of them seeking shelter for overwintering.
Stink bugs have various factors that lead to their presence. A significant reason is their invasive nature. Specifically, the Brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB) originates from regions like China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. They accidentally made their way into the United States, with the first known case recorded in Pennsylvania in 1998.
Since their introduction, these stink bugs have spread to many states, including:
- California
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts,
- Mississippi
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- Washington, D.C.
- West Virginia
Efforts are underway to find natural predators and other means to control their population.
How to get rid of stink bugs in my room
You can take several steps to get rid of stink bugs in your room. You will learn about these steps in this article. Before you start, be sure to wear your personal protective equipment or PPE, especially when you handle any chemicals.
1. Seal All Entryways
Ensure that doors and windows are well-caulked and weather-stripped. Repair any broken window screens and seal other openings. Since stink bugs are attracted to light, minimize outdoor lighting and use curtains or blinds to prevent indoor light from attracting them outside.
2. Maintain Landscaping
Regularly mow your lawn and ensure landscape maintenance. Clean your yard by removing debris and vegetation that might attract stink bugs, reducing the number of pests near your home.
3. Spray Garlic
Garlic is a natural deterrent for stink bugs. Make a spray by mixing two cups of water with four teaspoons of garlic powder. Spray this mixture on windowsills and doorways.
4. Use Soapy Water
Stink bugs tend to drop downwards when threatened. Place a jar with a soapy water solution beneath them to catch them. You can also spray a mixture of warm water and liquid dish detergent on potential entry points. This solution dehydrates and eventually kills the stink bugs.
5. Sweep or Vacuum
To remove stink bugs from your home, sweep or vacuum them up. To minimize their odor, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and empty it outdoors.
Prevention
Regularly inspect your property for signs of stink bugs. Look for their distinctive shield shape and gray-brown color.
To prevent stink bugs from getting into your house, maintain regular pesticide treatments and fix any entry points you discover when inspecting your home. Seal small openings on the outside of your house using copper mesh and caulk. Fix any broken screens and door seals. Cut back plants and any tree branches that are too close to your house. Lastly, remember to use Reclaim IT pest control every 90 days to ensure control.
Contact Your Local Pest Control for Stink Bugs
Regarding pest control for stink bugs, many homeowners first try to handle the situation themselves before thinking about calling an exterminator. However, contacting a professional early on can save time, money, and effort, and reduce frustration.
If you have a problem with Brown marmorated stink bugs (BMSBs) on your property, reach out to your local pest control professional for a free inspection. They will evaluate your stink bug issue and offer a scientific approach to get rid of it.
