Not Chemicals: Get Rid Of Stink Bugs With A Natural Oil They Can't Stand

While early autumn months bring on stink bugs in many parts of the United States, these smelly insects are more active in spring. As temperatures drop, these insects seek out the warmth of your home's walls and interior, finding tiny gaps in siding and window seals to overwinter in your attic or crawlspaces. Stink bugs are more than just an eyesore — they are an invasive pest that could cause problems in your home. They also emit a foul stench whenever they feel threatened. That's why taking key prevention steps is important, such as sealing cracks around windows and door frames and ensuring window screens are tight-fitting and free of holes.

While there are some commercially available stink bug sprays that you can buy, these are often chemically heavy and could pose health risks to children and pets. Instead, you can try getting rid of stink bugs in your home with a simple, natural solution — neem oil. This oil contains azadirachtin, which disrupts the bugs' hormonal balance and prevents them from molting and reproducing, while its naturally bitter taste and earthy scent help keep them away from your home and garden.

Because neem oil is an oil, it won't mix with water on its own. You'll want to mix one gallon of warm water with one to two teaspoons of unscented mild dish soap and slowly add one to two tablespoons of high-quality neem oil (look for cold-pressed). Shake well before every use, as the oil will naturally try to float to the top. Neem oil is generally safe for adults, but it can be toxic if ingested — especially to children.

To keep stink bugs from entering your home and overwintering inside, focus on where they congregate the most. Spray the mixture generously around window frames, door jambs, and any cracks in the siding. Stink bugs love the sunny side of the house, so pay extra attention to south-facing walls. If you notice that this pest is munching on your plants in your garden, spray the leaves directly. Be sure to spray the undersides of leaves where they like to hide.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using neem oil for stink bug control. Unlike harsh chemicals, neem oil breaks down quickly. For the best defense, reapply the spray every seven to 10 days or after a heavy rain. When using neem oil on outdoor plants, apply it in the evening, early morning, or on a cloudy day. If applied in the heat of a sunny day, the oil can act like a magnifying glass and burn the leaves. If this solution isn't as effective as you'd like, try adding 10 drops of peppermint oil to the mixture. The strong scent of peppermint will immediately deter the bugs, while the neem provides long-lasting protection.