April showers bring May flowers, and May flowers bring stink bugs. Okay, that might not be scientifically correct, but you get the picture. Stink bugs are as prevalent as the summer crops they feed upon. You’ve probably noticed these nasty little guys in your yard, but as fall draws near and the temperature drops, they’ll be heading indoors. Here’s how to keep stink bugs out of your home.

Seal Entry Points

The best way to keep your home free from stink bugs is to keep them out from the beginning. Stink bugs can sneak in through the smallest crevices, so be sure to pay special attention to the following areas.

Siding

Seal cracks and holes in your siding with caulk. If there is substantial damage to your siding, you may want to replace it to prevent it from becoming an easy point of entry.

Windows and Doors

Check to make sure that all of your windows and doors shut tightly. If you can see light from outside coming in between your window or door and its frame, then a stink bug can definitely get in!

Screens

They may seem minuscule, but holes in your window or door screens are the perfect place for stink bugs to enter your home. Use a screen-patching kit to let fresh air in while keeping stink bugs out.

Properly Store Food

Food attracts stink bugs as well as a number of other annoying pests, so be sure to properly store it in your home. Keep tight lids on all food containers, and don’t let food sit out unattended for an extended period of time. Be sure to clean up any food or drink spills quickly, as they can attract many unwanted house guests.

Maintain Your Yard

Stink bugs love damp, dark places, so try to eliminate any potential homes for them in your yard. This includes

Draining excess water
Properly disposing of yard waste
Storing firewood away from your home
Keeping shrubs and landscaping trimmed
Using professional pest control services if necessary

Remove Them Carefully

Unfortunately, stink bugs may still find their way into your home every now and then. If you happen to encounter them, don’t panic! Here are a few effective ways to dispose of them.

Vacuum

To avoid smashing a stink bug in your home and subsequently releasing their namesake “stink,” use your handheld vacuum extension to safely suck them up. Once you’ve collected the stink bug(s), empty vacuum bag outside. Do not use a bagless vacuum to collect stink bugs, as the smell will linger.

Household Trap

Another way to safely exterminate stink bugs in your home is disturb them while holding a bucket of water and dish soap underneath. They will tend to fall into the bucket and drown.

Kill Outdoors

If you do encounter a stink bug outside, squish away! The odor that the stink bug omits will warn other stink bugs to steer clear of the area—and your home.

If you’re in need of pest control services in the Des Moines area, trust Springer. The experts at Springer Professional Home Services will inspect your home, treat problem areas, and prevent future infestations. Set up a free inspection today!