How to Exterminate Stink Bugs in the House: 5 Methods to Try

Stink bugs can be a nuisance, punishing those who crush them with their pungent, repulsive scent. What’s worse, where there’s one, there’s almost always more. 

Luckily, learning how to exterminate stink bugs from your house is possible, thanks to a few DIY methods. This guide covers how to exterminate stink bugs in the house without the assault on your nostrils, and how to keep them from coming back.

Why Do I Have Stink Bugs in My Home?

While it can seem like they spawn out of nowhere, the great outdoors is where stink bugs come from—they don’t breed indoors. Stink bugs sneak indoors when they need a warm place to spend the winter. They’re attracted to light and warmth, so you’ll often find them near sunny windows, attics, or light fixtures. 

These pests enter through small cracks in windows, doors, siding, and even chimneys. While they don’t bite or spread disease, they release a foul-smelling odor when squished, making them annoying to tackle the old-fashioned way.

How Much Does It Cost to Exterminate Stink Bugs?  

The cost of pest control services for a stink bug infestation falls between $100 and $300. However, prices can fluctuate based on the severity of the problem and the type of treatment method. Get in touch with a local exterminator for a custom quote that fits your unique situation.

How to Exterminate Stink Bugs

1. Use Diatomaceous Earth

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth along door thresholds, window sills, and in crawl spaces. The fine powder damages the stink bug’s outer shell, causing it to dehydrate and die. It's safe for people and pets when used as directed.

2. Create a Trap With Soapy Water

Fill a shallow pan or bowl with water and add a few drops of dish soap, then place the bowl in a sunny spot or near a light source where stink bugs gather. The bugs will be attracted to the light, fall into the water, and drown. Dispose of the water and repeat as needed.

3. Vacuum Them Up

Use a vacuum with a bag to suck up stink bugs (avoid bagless vacuums). Immediately dispose of the bag in an outdoor trash bin to ensure the bugs don’t crawl back out into your home. Clean the vacuum canister or hose thoroughly with a vinegar solution afterward.

4. Catch Them With a Sticky Object

To nab individual bugs without releasing their awful aroma in your home, try trapping them with something sticky. For example, you can attach a ball of sticky tape to a telescoping duster pole and use it to trap out-of-reach bugs before bringing them outside to meet their end. You can also try hanging fly paper near points of potential entry. 

5. Hire a Professional Exterminator

If nothing you’ve tried successfully keeps the stink bugs at bay, then it’s the right time to hire a professional exterminator. If you don’t already have a trusted pro you work with, contact at least three pest control services for quotes to find the best deal and ensure they specialize in stink bug eradication.

How to Prevent Stink Bugs From Coming Back

Once you’ve finally seen the last of these smelly, annoying insects, consider these tips to keep them from infiltrating your home in the future.

1. Clear Out Clutter in Hiding Spots

Stink bugs love to hide in quiet, cluttered areas like attics, basements, and garages. Declutter regularly and keep your home clean to avoid creating their favorite type of hideout. If you find infested items, the simplest fix is to throw them out and take the bugs with them.

2. Seal Up Cracks and Gaps

Stink bugs sneak in through the smallest openings, especially around windows and doors. Inspect these areas and reseal them with caulk or fresh weather stripping as needed. Since these bugs are drawn to light, try minimizing exterior lighting at night and use curtains or blinds to keep interior lights from shining during the night.

3. Keep Your Yard Maintained

Unkempt yards can easily become havens for stink bugs. Trim overgrown shrubs, rake up fallen leaves, and mow the lawn regularly to remove potential hiding spots. Regular outdoor maintenance creates a less inviting environment for these sneaky invaders.

4. Use Natural Repellents

Consider placing dryer sheets around potential points of entry, or spritzing the area down with garlic spray, or essential oils like mint or neem oil. These natural scents can deter stink bugs without the use of harmful chemicals. However, note that they are toxic to pets, so be sure to keep them out of reach of your furry family members.