When the seasons change, pest control becomes a priority for homeowners who know that prevention is essential for warding off invasive insects and critters. Although most people are prepared to find an occasional spider or roach, a stinkbug infestation can be a surprise. According to the State University of New Jersey, stinkbugs tend to invade gardens and homes during the fall, and they can emit an offensive odor that is a nuisance indoors. From preventative measures to eliminating an infestation, here are the top tips for dealing with stinkbugs.
Seal All Entry-Points
A seasonal inspection of the exterior of a home is essential for preventing stinkbugs. Due to their small size, stinkbugs can squeeze through tiny cracks around windows, beneath doors and around siding. If holes are found, sealing them with caulk or weather-stripping material will keep stinkbugs outdoors. Be sure to keep lights dim around these areas to avoid attracting stinkbugs to a potential entrance.
Effective Landscaping
Stinkbug infestations often begin in outdoor areas, such as gardens, and then move into the home when the weather turns cold. Practicing proper landscaping can eliminate stinkbugs before they have a chance to spread. Keeping lawns trimmed and branches away from the house will make it more difficult for stinkbugs to travel indoors. Finally, repair leaks to avoid creating a moisture-rich environment in which stinkbugs prefer to live.
Practice Proper Food Storage
Similar to many household pests, stinkbugs can thrive on spilled food crumbs and any unsealed contents of a home’s pantry. Therefore, all food should be stored in airtight containers that cannot be entered by a stinkbug. Checking groceries before putting them away can also help a person to avoid carrying stinkbugs inside from their car.
When finding a stinkbug, a person’s first response is to squish them as they would any other household pests. Unfortunately, doing so will cause them to release a noxious odor that can spread through the home. Using a vacuum or broom is one way to remove individual stinkbugs. However, the best method for control is to utilize the services of a professional pest technician who can remove stinkbug infestations while preventing future recurrences.