Whether you should get rid of paper wasps depends on a few factors. If you are dealing with a large population and have household members or pets that are being stung frequently, it’s best to get rid of these wasps. But they aren’t all bad. Paper wasps feed on common garden pests, like caterpillars and beetle larva, that can harm your plants.

In certain cases, yes, the bees may go away on their own, but it’s a risk. Some bee types, such as bumblebees, create seasonal nests and then die out as their new queens seek homes elsewhere. But in most cases, you can’t count on the bees leaving naturally. It’s also not a great idea to leave openings in your walls any longer than you have to, which can attract other pests or cause moisture damage.

Generally, the chemicals in hornet venom deliver a more painful sting than wasp stings. But wasps can still pack a punch when they sting, especially if they sting multiple times. One of the most painful insect stings in the world is that of the tarantula hawk. Fortunately, this sting is usually only an issue if you’re a tarantula.

To keep animals away from your trash, you can spray store-bought ammonia-based cleaners on the bag or make your own spray. All you need is a spray bottle with one part ammonia and one part water. Once you’ve sprayed the bags, keep your kids and pets away.