Natural Ways to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs

 

If you’re dealing with boxelder bugs—those black-and-orange insects that swarm in and around homes, especially in fall—there are several natural and safe methods to keep them away or get rid of them. The best approaches don’t rely on chemical sprays, but instead change the environment, use physical barriers, and employ gentle homemade solutions. Here’s exactly what you need to know to tackle boxelder bugs naturally at home.

 

Why Boxelder Bugs Come Inside

 

Boxelder bugs are mostly a nuisance and do not bite, damage structures, or harm people. They gather in large groups, especially in sunny spots, and enter homes seeking warmth for the winter. They’re attracted to boxelder trees (as well as maples and ashes), but will shelter in cracks, vents, and gaps in walls when temperatures drop.

 

Block Their Entry Points

 

Find and seal up all the areas where they can get inside your house. This works well if you want to prevent them, especially in late summer and early fall before the bugs look for warmth.

• Use caulk (a paste-like material) to fill gaps and cracks around windows, doors, siding, pipes, and electrical outlets.
• Install or repair window and door screens. Even small tears or holes can let them in.
• Add door sweeps to the bottom of exterior doors and check for gaps around garage doors.
• Stuff weather stripping and foam tape into bigger cracks or gaps.

 

Remove or Rinse Away Existing Bugs

 

If you already have boxelder bugs around or inside your house, you don’t have to use poisons. Instead, try these proven methods:

• Use a vacuum cleaner to suck up clusters inside—dispose of the vacuum bag outside because the bugs can smell and attract more if left inside.
• Spray the bugs with soapy water. Mix a tablespoon of dish soap in a spray bottle of water and spray directly onto the bugs. This breaks down their outer shell and kills them safely.
• Outdoors, use a strong stream of water (like a garden hose) to wash them off walls and plants. Regular rinsing discourages them from gathering in the same spots.

 

Natural Outdoor Solutions

 

Ultrasound and DIY repellents are not proven, but there are a few other outside tricks:

• Remove female boxelder trees (the ones that make seeds). These trees are the preferred food source, so if you have several, this can reduce bug numbers over time.
• Rake up fallen seeds and leaves from boxelder, maple, and ash trees near your home since these attract bugs too.
• Encourage natural predators like birds by providing food, water, and habitat, but expect only limited results with large infestations.

 

What NOT to Do

 

Certain methods should be avoided:

• Don’t squish boxelder bugs indoors. They can stain walls and fabrics and may release a foul odor.
• Don’t use chemical insecticides inside your house—these are rarely needed and can be more hazardous than the bugs.

 

Long-Term Prevention Tips

 

For lasting results, combine the above steps with good home upkeep:

• Continue checking for and sealing new cracks or entryways each autumn.
• Keep vegetation (especially boxelder, ash, or maple trees) trimmed and away from the foundation of your home.
• Regularly clean and vacuum potential hiding spots in attics, basements, and storage areas.

 

Summary

 

Natural control of boxelder bugs centers on sealing their entryways, removing them physically, using soapy water, and managing the outdoor environment around your house. These steps avoid harm to people, pets, and the environment, and when done consistently, they will greatly reduce boxelder bug problems without resorting to harsh chemicals.