Stink Bugs Are Invading the Quad Cities-Here's How to Get Rid of

I fancy myself a lover of most all creatures, but this one's gotta go. Stink bugs. Those grey hard-shelled crawly creatures that fly when you least expect it are back and they're finding their way into our homes.

I have to admit, I don't mean to be cruel, but when I see these awful bugs hanging out on my window screens, I flick them from the inside of the screen and watch them go sailing into the yard. I also have to admit that's NOT the most effective way to get rid of them.

Here's a pro tip. Whatever you do, DON'T squish or smash them. Hence the name, 'stink' bug. That scent will linger on your skin and waft around your nose for way too long. Here's what bug experts recommend instead.

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Stink bugs love fruit. If you keep fruit on the counter in your kitchen, you might want to find a different location. These stinkies, and I've also heard them called 'potato' bugs also light plants, vegetation and light. So, we aren't going to get rid of our plants or live in the dark, but there is one more thing we can do.

Try this simple home remedy- a combination of hot water, dish soap, and white vinegar is suggested to be an effective "trap" for stink bugs. (Farm & Dairy recommends filling a spray bottle with 2 cups of hot water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 1/2 cup dish soap, then spraying the bugs directly).

It works. I've also tried this for Japanese beetles when they invade in the summer time. It's time consuming and you need to keep your concoction at the ready to make this successful.

I've also heard that mint helps. Crush up mint leaves and put them in a spray bottle with water and spray around the window seals, door frames, curtains, lamp shades and anywhere else you can think of as an entry point or hiding place. You can also use the bottles of essential oil instead of the leaves which works as well.

Just remember, whatever you do DON'T smash these suckers. And keep in mind, once we get our first big freeze, they'll be gone. If you're still wondering why stink bugs stink, here's video to explain.

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