Why You Shouldn’t Kill Stink Bugs
Got Stink Bugs? Here's How To Get Rid of Them

Stink Bug Removal Toronto Area
When fall arrives and leaves begin to change, then you should know that most unpleasant insects are on the move. This, together with the arrival of stink bugs, signifies the start of cooler months.
An infestation of brown marmorated stinkbugs is easily identifiable because of their unpleasant smell and rugged shells. These insects seek shelter indoors in search of warmer places to overwinter.
Even though stink bugs are harmless to your health and do not damage property, the foul odor from this invasive species is unbearable to live with at home. Stink bugs do not bite, but you should be cautious when handling them. These insects release a pungent smell as a defense mechanism.
Like termites, ants and other bugs, stink bugs invade homes in large numbers, making pest control challenging. However, several simple ways can help with the eradication of stink bugs.
Why Shouldn't You Kill Stink Bugs?
When most people spot an insect, what comes to mind is killing it, but that should never be the case, even for stink bugs. When stink bugs feel threatened, they release a pungent odor to deter predators. This also happens when they're killed, and their smell can have lingering effects.
Stink bugs release foul-smelling chemicals that not only deter predators but also release pheromones that attract others. When this pheromone is released, it attracts more of its kind, and it's only a matter of time before a colony establishes in your home if you do not activate adequate pest control measures.
Spring and Fall Pests
Winter is a very tough season for most people. When this season ends, flowers bloom, and the snow starts melting. As you enjoy the warmer weather be cautious since insects and other animals also come out of hibernation and controlling them can be challenging.
During these months, most eggs laid during winter hatch, and the hunt for food begins. This makes controlling them very difficult. Pests that comes out in spring and fall include bees, wasp, butterflies, mosquitoes and other stink bugs.
What should you do to prevent insects from infesting your house in warmer months?
Bugs like termites can cause serious structural damage. Even harmless species like stink bugs are still very unpleasant to live with. They can also spread disease! To control stink bugs and other pests, ensure your house is clean with zero food particles on the floor because that's what attracts pests indoors.
How to get rid of stink bugs
Trash should be stored properly to deter pests from coming to seek shelter indoors. If you are overwhelmed, seek the services of a professional to help you find the source and control stink bugs.
The Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
types of stink bugs in Toronto
The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species native to Asia and is present throughout the USA. It is harmless to humans but can cause damage to several fruit trees, vegetables, crops and other plants. When you come across one, do not squish it because it smells awful.
Other Stink Bugs
There are several other species of stink bugs that farmers and homeowners must be aware of, including;
- Green Stink Bug
green stink bug Toronto
- Brown Stink Bug
brown stink bug on a branch
- Red-Shouldered Stink Bug
red shouldered stink bug Toronto
- Spined Soldier Stink Bug
- Kudzu stink Bug
All these types do not spread diseases, but for farmers, they can be deadly because they feed on plant material.
How To Get Rid of Stink Bugs In Your Home
For homeowners, bugs and insects are unwelcome but very common visitors. A stink bug attack is even worse for farmers because they feed on fruit trees and crops, and this can cause harm to plants. Getting rid of them can be challenging but, luckily, very doable.
rare stink bugs
There are several simple remedies that you can employ to get rid of stink bugs. It is easier and more sensible to deal with them at the early stages of infestation before stink bugs begin to multiply. The smell released by these bugs when they feel threatened by humans or predators is unpleasant and unbearable.
For this reason, it is best to avoid coming to contact with stink bugs when eliminating them. Here are the most effective methods to get rid of stink bugs.
Vacuuming stink bugs
It is a very common method of eliminating these bugs. This method allows you to get rid of them without running the risk of exposing your home to the pungent smell they release when threatened.
Even though vacuuming leaves your house smelling fresh, it is important to note that the vacuum used will definitely stink. Therefore, it is wise to use an old vacuum cleaner, or if you must buy one, the cheaper brands are better because they do an equally good job.
Buying a vacuum cleaner is the best option if you live in places experiencing regular stink bug infestation.
Setting up trays of soapy water
Can you guess how this DIY method works? Stink bugs drown in soapy water and unlike clean water, this mixture prevents post-mortem secretion. You can employ this method in your basements, and other hardly visited spots in your house. For homeowners with kids, setting up trays is a bad idea because kids are kids. They will get wet!
Using natural insecticides
natural insecticides for stink bugs in Toronto
Using insecticides is the most effective way of eliminating stink bugs. Moreover, aside from being effective, insecticides are also very easy to use, and the whole process can be done without specialists.
This is something you can do after work or over the weekend. Note that natural insecticides are homemade and are, therefore, safer to use.
For this method, fill up a hand spray bottle with equal proportions of vinegar and water. If you use a two-liter spray bottle, fill it with one liter of water and 1 liter of vinegar.
Unlike chemical insecticides, this concentration takes more time (30-45 minutes) to kill the stink bugs. But the fact that it is effective and safe even if you have kids makes the whole difference.
Manually removing the stink bugs
Like harmless insects that do not bite, stink bugs can be removed manually. But because of their pungent odor and the generally unpleasant feeling of coming in contact with bugs, protective gear is recommended.
Before you get into it, wear gloves, plastic bags, and any other covering that can protect you from coming in contact with them. This method is recommended during the early infestation periods to prevent the bugs from spreading.
A macro shot marmorated stink bug with blurred background
Using stink bugs repellants
There are several stinkbug repellants that can prevent their spread. This elimination method is effective for homeowners dealing with early infestations of stink bugs.
You can place the repellants of the notorious cracks and other entry points like windows and doors where the bugs can access your home. The repellants should be placed just before the start of winter because that's when stink bugs migrate in search of shelter and food. Stink bugs hate the scent the repellants release, which keeps them away from your house.
Hiring a pest control company
Even with a proper pest management program, the risk of facing a serious stink bug infestation is always imminent. Unlike DIY options, hiring professionals is always the right thing to do.
A professional touch always makes a huge difference, and that's what we at Secret agent pest control company offer. Regardless of the type of insect infestation, our experienced team and the most advanced pest control technologies and techniques have you covered. Feel free to contact us.