How To Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder bugs are annoying little pests that can invade your home and make you feel like you’re living in a horror movie. They are black and red insects that feed on the sap of boxelder trees, but they also like to hang out in warm and cozy places, like your walls, windows, and furniture. They don’t bite or sting, but they can stain your surfaces with their excrement and emit a foul odor when crushed. Yuck!

Here are some steps you can take to get rid of boxelder bugs from your home:

– Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, siding, pipes, or vents that could allow boxelder bugs to enter your home. You can use caulk, weather stripping, or mesh screens to block their access points.

– Vacuum up any boxelder bugs you see inside your home. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside, away from your home. You can also use a broom or a damp cloth to sweep or wipe them off surfaces.

– Spray a mixture of water and dish soap on boxelder bugs you see on the exterior of your home. This will kill them on contact and deter others from landing. You can also use a commercial insecticide labeled for boxelder bugs but follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying near plants, animals, or water sources.

– Remove any boxelder trees or branches near your home. Boxelder bugs are attracted to these trees and will congregate on them in the fall and winter. If you cannot remove the trees, you can prune them to reduce the number of seeds and sap available for the bugs.

– Apply diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home. This is a natural substance made of fossilized algae that dehydrates and kills boxelder bugs and other insects. Sprinkle it lightly on the soil, mulch, or gravel around your foundation, windows, doors, and other entry points. Reapply after rain or watering.

Call Truly Green Pest Control. If all else fails, or if you have a severe infestation, you might want to call a professional pest control service. They have the expertise and the equipment to deal with boxelder bugs effectively and safely. They can also give you some advice on how to prevent future infestations.

Boxelder bugs are not dangerous, but they are certainly annoying. By following these tips, you can get rid of them from your home and enjoy a bug-free environment. Good luck!