stink-bugs, as the name suggests, well, stink. They are able to emit a terrible odor as a defense against predators. stink-bugs come in many sizes and colors ranging from a tiny 1/6 of an inch to a formidable 1-inch in length. They also come in a variety of colors ranging from greens to browns to grays. stink-bugs have a distinctive shape unlike other bugs. They are shaped like a shield. stink-bugs used to be found mainly outdoors and on or near tomato plants. stink-bugs leave a telltale sign of white colored spots on the plant. Unfortunately, stink-bugs have been making their way into homes, but have not been an infestation problem until fairly recently. Many people have begun to find the bugs all over their house. A favorite hiding spot is in hot air heating vents, air conditioning vents, closets, kitchens, bathrooms and the list goes on. In other words, stink-bugs can be found anywhere inside your home. Although stink-bugs do not cause any harm to humans or pets, no one wants to live with them.
Keeping stink-bugs Out
Check the window and door screens for small holes. If you find holes, replace the screens or sew a small piece of screening across the hole to seal it and block entry for the stink-bugs and other insects.
Check the seal around windows. Remove the old caulking or sealing material and replace it, if you find pieces missing or if they are pulling away from the area. Seal up the Stink Bug entrances. Make sure you also replace old sealing material inside of your house and outside of your house.
If you find a large population of stink-bugs, use your shop vac to pick them up. Take the shop vac outside immediately. Empty the shop vac into a large sealable plastic bag. Seal the top of the bag and throw the bag into the garbage. Cover the garbage can with a tight lid.
Avoid stepping on or smashing stink-bugs because they will release their odor. The odor can also absorb into whatever you just smashed the Stink Bug on including carpets, bedding and furniture.
Treat the exterior of your home around the entire foundation with cypermenthrin, which is an insecticide found in garden centers and home improvement stores Or if you are not comfortable using an insecticide, make your own. Add 4 to 6 drops of a liquid dish soap and 1/3 of a cup of lime to 1 gallon of water in a large bucket. Allow the lime to dissolve and pour the homemade insecticide into a spray bottle and generously spray the exterior of the house.
Buy Stink Bug traps and lay them in areas where you have seen the bugs walking around. Unfortunately, that is about all you can do on your own. If there is one Stink Bug, be sure you know there are many, many more.
When it's Time to Call a Pro
If you have a Stink Bug infestation or think you might, call an exterminator. Many home methods are successful, but only temporarily. To ensure success, employ all of the methods. Be warned, you may still have to rely on an exterminator.