Exploring How To Get Rid Of Stink Bugs: What You Need to Know

In the fall of 2022, British Columbia issued a pest alert about the brown marmorated stink bug, which has made its way from Asia to North America and now established itself in parts of Metro Vancouver.

To tackle this pest effectively, it’s essential to arm ourselves with the right strategies.

Read on to discover five curated approaches and essential tips for dealing with stink bugs.

How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs in Vancouver

Before we dive in, remember: don’t crush stink bugs, as they release a foul odor that can attract more bugs. Instead, try these five methods to eliminate them from your home.

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Option 1: Use a Vacuum and Pantyhose

Difficulty: Easy
Number of Steps: 3
Time: 1 hour
Things You Need: Vacuum, pantyhose, elastic bands

1. Set Up Your Vacuum and Pantyhose: Attach pantyhose to your vacuum’s intake hose, securing it with elastic bands. Ensure the pantyhose is intact.
2. Vacuum up the Stink Bugs: Capture the stink bugs by vacuuming them up.
3. Dispose of the Stink Bugs: Detach the pantyhose outside, seal it, and dispose of it in a trash bin. Alternatively, submerge the pantyhose in soapy water to prevent odors.

Option 2: Set up a Stink Bug Trap with Light

Difficulty: Very Easy
Number of Steps: 3
Time: 15 minutes
Things You Need: Foil roasting pan, desk lamp, dish detergent

1. Prepare the Trap: Fill a foil roasting pan with soapy water and position a desk lamp above it.
2. Perform the Deed at Night: Turn off other lights and let the desk lamp attract the bugs.
3. Check in the Morning: After 12 hours, dispose of the bugs in the pan.

Option 3: Improvise a Battery-Powered Trap

Difficulty: Moderate
Number of Steps: 5
Time: 2 hours
Things You Need: Two-liter soda bottle, battery-powered light, weather stripping or masking tape, cutter

1. Prepare the Main Body: Cut a two-liter bottle to create a funnel.
2. Attach Walking Strips: Use tape to create a surface for bugs to climb.
3. Attach Your Light Source: Place a battery-powered light at the bottom of the bottle.
4. Attach the Funnel: Secure the funnel to the bottle body.
5. Catch Some Stink Bugs: Place the trap where bugs are found and leave it overnight.

Option 4: Use a Mix of Cedar Oil and Isopropyl Alcohol

Difficulty: Very Easy
Number of Steps: 3
Time: 30 minutes
Things You Need: Cedarwood oil, isopropyl alcohol, water spray, gloves

1. Mix Cedarwood Oil and Isopropyl Alcohol: Combine 32 oz of isopropyl alcohol with 10 ml of cedarwood oil in a spray bottle.
2. Do Some Test Sprays: Test the mixture on surfaces to ensure no staining.
3. Spray the Mixture: Spray potential entry points like door and window frames.

Option 5: Use a Water Bottle with Soapy Water

Difficulty: Easy
Number of Steps: 3
Time: 1-2 hours
Things You Need: Small water bottle, soapy water

1. Prepare the Trap: Fill a water bottle with soapy water.
2. Catch Some Stink Bugs: Nudge stink bugs into the bottle.
3. Dispose of the Stink Bugs: Seal the bottle and let the bugs die in the soapy water.

Things to Keep in Mind When Dealing with Stink Bugs

Know How to Identify the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug

The brown marmorated stink bug has alternating brown and white markings and white bands on its antennae. Familiarize yourself with its appearance to effectively address infestations.

Report Stink Bug Sightings to the Province

Report any sightings of stink bugs to help manage the infestation. The province is studying natural solutions like the samurai wasp.

Prevent Stink Bugs from Entering the House

Seal entry points with high-quality silicone, install door sweeps, and replace damaged screens to prevent stink bugs from entering your home.

Take Care of Your Backyard

Keep firewood 20 feet away from your house and off the ground. Clean and inspect your backyard to reduce stink bug habitats.

Consider Professional Pest Control Services

If DIY methods aren’t enough, consider professional pest control services like Local Pest Control and Pesticon.

By following these strategies, you can effectively manage and reduce stink bug infestations in your home.