How to Keep Boxelder Bugs Out of Your Home
If you’ve ever spotted red-and-black insects crawling along the sunny side of your home, chances are you’ve encountered boxelder bugs. These small, flat-bodied bugs are easy to recognize and often show up in large numbers, especially in warm, sunny areas. While they might seem harmless at first glance, their presence can quickly go from mildly annoying to a full-blown household invasion if they find a way indoors.
Boxelder bugs are mostly a nuisance rather than a danger, but that doesn’t mean you want them hanging around. When they get inside, they can stain walls, curtains, and furniture with their droppings. On top of that, their sheer numbers can be overwhelming. Imagine dozens of them gathering on your windowsills or buzzing around when you least expect it — not exactly a cozy home atmosphere.
Fortunately, you can take action before they become a problem. Preventing boxelder bugs from getting inside is much easier than trying to deal with them once they’ve invaded. The key is to start early, sealing up potential entry points and making your home less attractive to them in the first place.
Simple steps like repairing torn window screens, sealing cracks around doors and windows, and removing nearby boxelder trees can make a big difference. You can also use a vacuum to quickly remove any bugs that do manage to slip inside. These strategies not only reduce the number of boxelder bugs in your home but also give you peace of mind.
By being proactive, you can keep your home bug-free and comfortable year-round. Boxelder bugs may be persistent, but they don’t have to take over your living space. With a little prevention and quick action, you can stop them in their tracks and enjoy a pest-free home.
What Are Boxelder Bugs?
Boxelder bugs are small insects with black bodies and orange-red markings. They are often found on boxelder, maple, and ash trees. While they do not bite or cause structural damage, they can leave behind stains and unpleasant smells when crushed. These pests tend to gather in large numbers during fall as they look for warm spots to overwinter. That is why you often see them on the sunny side of your house — they are soaking up the heat.
Why Boxelder Bugs Enter Homes
Boxelder bugs are not looking for food inside your home. They just want warmth and shelter during colder months. Cracks, gaps, and open windows are perfect entry points. Once they get inside, they hide in wall voids, attics, or basements until spring.
Step-by-Step Guide to Keep Boxelder Bugs Out
1. Seal Entry Points
Walk around your home and check for cracks around windows, doors, siding, and utility openings. Seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. This step is the most important because it prevents them from getting inside in the first place.
2. Repair Screens
Ensure that all of your doors and window screens are not damaged. Even small tears can allow boxelder bugs to enter. Patch or replace any damaged screens.
3. Close Gaps Around Doors
Install door sweeps and make sure exterior doors close tightly. This is a simple way to block a common entryway for insects.
4. Vacuum Up Bugs
If you find boxelder bugs inside, vacuum them up right away. Avoid crushing them since they can leave stains and a foul odor.
5. Keep Lights Off
Outdoor lights attract boxelder bugs at night. Turn off unnecessary lights or switch to yellow “bug” bulbs to reduce attraction.
6. Clean Up Boxelder Trees
If you have boxelder trees near your home, consider trimming the branches back. This reduces the number of bugs gathering near your house.
7. Use Insecticides Wisely
As a last resort, you can use a residual insecticide around the exterior of your home. Apply it along window sills, doors, and other possible entry points. Follow all safety guidelines.
8. Call a Pest Control Professional
If you are dealing with a large infestation, calling a professional might be the most effective solution. They have the tools and treatments to handle severe problems.
Natural Ways to Keep Boxelder Bugs Away
Not a fan of chemical sprays? You can try natural solutions too:
- Dish Soap Spray: Mix dish soap with water and spray directly on the bugs. It kills them on contact.
- Essential Oils: Peppermint oil mixed with water can be sprayed around windows and doors. The strong smell repels boxelder bugs.
- Vacuum and Release: If you prefer not to kill them, vacuum them up and release them outside, far from your home.
Prevent Future Infestations
Stopping boxelder bugs is easier if you plan ahead:
- Inspect your home in late summer and seal cracks before fall.
- Keep the area around your home clear of debris.
- Schedule regular pest control inspections to stay ahead of problems.
FAQs About Keeping Boxelder Bugs Out
1. Do boxelder bugs bite humans?
No, boxelder bugs do not bite or sting. They are considered nuisance pests.
2. Can boxelder bugs damage my house?
They do not chew wood or wires, but they can stain walls, curtains, and furniture with their droppings.
3. Are boxelder bugs harmful to pets?
They are not toxic to pets, though eating large numbers could upset a pet’s stomach.
4. When are boxelder bugs most active?
They are most active in the fall when they look for shelter, and in spring when they leave their hiding spots.
5. What smell keeps boxelder bugs away?
Peppermint oil and citrus-based sprays can help repel them.
6. Will removing boxelder trees stop them completely?
It can reduce the population but not eliminate them completely. They can also live on maple and ash trees.
7. Can I crush boxelder bugs?
It is better not to. Crushing them can leave a strong odor and stain surfaces.
8. Do insecticides work on boxelder bugs?
Yes, but they are most effective when used as a barrier treatment outside the home.
9. How do I keep boxelder bugs out without chemicals?
Seal cracks, repair screens, vacuum regularly, and use essential oil sprays.
10. Should I worry if I see them in winter?
No need to panic. Just vacuum them up and make sure your home is sealed to prevent more from entering.
Conclusion
Boxelder bugs may not be dangerous, but they are certainly annoying. The key to keeping them out of your home is prevention. Seal cracks, fix screens, and remove attractants before fall arrives. Use natural repellents or safe insecticides if needed. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a bug-free home year-round.
Want more tips for keeping pests away naturally? Check out our other guides on BugOffControl.com and stay ahead of unwanted guests.
