Stinky bugs, as their name implies, are foul smelling creatures that wander into our homes in the winter months to escape the cold. They usually come in through very small openings, and once inside, are difficult to get rid of.
As the temperature drops, many of us are going to have to deal with these insects very soon, so to help you get a head start on preventing them from invading your house, here are some tips for managing a stink bug infestation.
Seal Entry Points
The best way to handle pests is to keep them from getting into your house in the first place, so seal off any entry points that stink bugs could use to sneak in. This means repairing window screens, making sure your doors are airtight and sealing any cracks around sidings and utilities pipes with caulk.
Turn off the Lights
Even though this is the time of the year when many of us put an especially large amount of glowing decorations out in front of our homes, it’s worth noting that stink bugs are attracted to light. The lights outside of your house should not be a problem, but you should keep the lights inside your house turned off, or at least have your blinds closed at night.
Reduce Moisture and Food Sources
Nearly all pests that come into our homes do so with the hopes of feasting off of the crumbs of food we leave behind, and stink bugs are no exception. This should be an incentive to keep our floors and countertops as clean as possible.
It’s also critical to keep moisture to a minimum, as even small amounts of water are enough to satisfy a stink bugs thirst, so dry your kitchen and bathroom sinks, insulate your pipes and invest in a dehumidifier.
Clean and Vacuum
Lastly, stink bugs love clutter, as it gives them ample room to hide and reproduce right below our noses. If you want to deprive them of shelter, keep your house as organized as possible. Put away boxes, hang your clothes, and vacuum your carpets regularly to clear away any eggs they may have laid there.
All pests are annoying, but stink bugs are creatures you want to keep as far away from your house as possible. Luckily, with a few simple tricks, you can make sure they won't be a problem this holiday season.
For more information, or to receive quality pest control services, contact our expert staff today!