How To Get Rid Of Asian Lady Beetles With A Strong Scent They Can't Stand

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You know the pattern: It's fall, a cold snap hits, then a pleasant, sunny day follows. The next thing you know, your windows are teeming with swarms of Asian lady beetles. If they can find any ⅛-inch-wide holes, gaps, cracks, or crannies — you know, the kind that can fit two dimes — around fascia, soffits, windows, wall voids, or doors, they'll squeeze right through and overwinter inside your home. It's cozy indoors, after all. So, to show these uninvited Asian lady beetles the door, use a strong scent they can't stand (but you probably won't mind): camphor.

Researchers studying plant-derived products to modify the behavior of multicolored beetles (another name for Asian lady beetles) discovered that camphor had a noticeable effect. They published their findings in 2000 in the Annals of the Entomological Society of America. They noted that when tested on an external site, every Asian lady beetle was effectively repelled after making contact with camphor. Understandably, it releases strong vapors, which overwhelm their sensory organs. This persuades them to turn away, rather than continue pushing through to reach warmer areas inside to spend the winter.

Looking upon the intrusion of Asian lady beetles charitably is difficult in most circumstances. While you might not mind this 'pest' in the garden where it acts as a natural pest control by continually feeding on soft-bodied insects like aphids, it's a different story when it ventures indoors. They stain the surfaces they've been on, leaving a sickly yellow color, and may worsen allergies in sensitive individuals. Worse, they stink up the room, though not any worse than a stink bug. Hopefully, with camphor, you can neutralize some of those bad odors.

To deal with Asian lady beetles, hunt around your closet for an old, thrifted, or discarded nylon stocking (or several, if you fear they can access several entry points). Put a few camphor tablets, such as these Natural Camphor Blocks available on Amazon, into the stocking and suspend it around your home's exterior to discourage entry. Be sure to cover all the likely points, especially south and west areas that receive direct afternoon light, or feature color contrasts, as beetles are most attracted to them. Around windowpanes or in tiny nooks and corners, you can place cotton balls soaked in camphor essential oil (the Siva Camphor Essential Oil is a highly rated option). Once done, expect them to steer clear of your home.

The biggest drawback of using natural compounds to get a handle on Asian lady beetles is that their effects don't last long. In the aforementioned study, all deterrence was already lost by the time they re-examined the situation after 48 hours. So, to maintain effectiveness, consider reapplying the oil or adding new camphor tablets frequently until it's cold outside. Simultaneously, caulk and seal the openings in window screens, around wiring, and the chimney.

Also note that camphor is poisonous. If you have kids, especially those under 2 years old, or pets, avoid leaving any tablets where they may access and consume them. From stomach aches and vomiting to seizures, it can have adverse effects on their health. Avoid keeping camphor around heat sources or mixing it with hot water, as this may cause fire. Always follow the label and avoid using it in living spaces.

Bear in mind that using camphor and other hacks that will keep insects out of your house is only effective before the arrival of the beetles. Once the bugs enter your home, they'll likely have moved into inaccessible wall cavities, and you won't be able to get rid of them with something as simple as camphor. However, without access to food, they may die inside, requiring no further control. You can vacuum up the survivors (it will smell), then empty the bags outside. Alternatively, you can put them in soapy water. If the problem persists, it's best to seek professional assistance.