Will Stink Bugs Survive Winter Inside the Home?

 

Yes, stink bugs can survive the winter inside your home. In fact, they specifically seek out indoor spaces when the weather gets colder because they need a warm, sheltered place to spend the season. This process is called "overwintering," which means finding somewhere safe to hide until it’s warm again in the spring.

 

What Happens When Stink Bugs Come Indoors?

 

Once stink bugs make their way into your home (usually in the fall through small cracks, gaps, or openings around doors, windows, or utility pipes), they enter a hibernation-like state called "diapause." During this period, they slow down their metabolism and don't eat, reproduce, or move around much. In this quiet phase, stink bugs are simply trying to survive the cold months by staying inactive in hidden spots such as inside walls, attics, basements, or behind baseboards.

 

Where Do They Hide?

 

Stink bugs are excellent at squeezing into tiny spaces. You might not see them because they often hide:

• Behind wallpaper or picture frames
• Inside walls, especially near light fixtures or vents
• In attics or crawl spaces
• In closets or unused rooms
• Under carpets or floorboards

 

Will Stink Bugs Cause Problems Indoors During Winter?

 

While stink bugs aren't dangerous to humans and don't cause structural damage to your home, they can still be annoying. When indoor heating warms up the space, stink bugs might "wake up" from their dormant state and start flying around inside, usually heading toward windows or lights. If disturbed or crushed, they release their characteristic unpleasant odor.

 

How Long Can They Live Inside?

 

If undisturbed and given the right conditions (stable indoor temperatures and protected hiding spots), stink bugs can survive indoors all winter—several months. Their slow metabolism during diapause allows them to get by without food or water for a long time. When spring returns, they become active again, trying to get back outside to find food and mates.

 

How Can I Prevent and Control Stink Bugs in My Home?

 

If you want to stop stink bugs from overwintering inside your home or deal with those already present, consider the following actions:

• Seal cracks, gaps, and holes around windows, doors, siding, and utility pipes with caulk or weatherstripping.
• Install or repair screens on windows and vents.
• Use a vacuum cleaner to remove live stink bugs—avoid squishing them to prevent odor release. Dispose of the vacuum bag promptly.
• Check areas like attics, crawl spaces, and basements for hiding bugs and remove them.
• If infestations are severe or persistent, a professional pest control specialist can provide targeted solutions and advice.

 

Summary

 

Stink bugs absolutely can and do survive winter inside homes by hiding in protected areas and entering a hibernation-like state. They're mostly inactive during this time, but may become a nuisance if they are warmed. Preventing their entry in the fall and removing those you find are the best ways to avoid problems each winter.