Boxelder bugs, also known as box elder bugs, are insects that are common to the west coast and typically cluster around box elder trees. They are easy to identify by their red bodies with black stripes. They are not harmful to humans or property – except that they can leave stains when crushed on floors or other surfaces. You’ll typically see these pests outdoors during spring but during the fall they will look for a warmer climate to hibernate for the winter. While pesticides can be an effective treatment to get rid of an infestation, many people seek natural alternatives.
There are several reasons that people look to non-toxic, natural alternatives to get rid of boxelder bugs. Some don’t want harsh chemicals in their homes, some are worried about how the fumes of pesticides will affect their families, some are allergic and sometimes it’s as simple as the desire for a more environmentally friendly solution. No matter your reason for seeking a natural alternative, the following tips can help you reach your goal.
The easiest option is to prevent the bugs from coming into your property at all. Box elder bugs don’t just magically appear in your home – they have to get in somehow. Even the smallest crack in your foundation or the most miniscule gap between your window and your windowsill can give them access. Take the time to completely seal your home and they won’t be able to get in at all. This includes repairing cracks in your foundation and using weather stripping to seal doors and windows.
If you already have box elder bugs in your home, one of the easiest ways to get rid of them is to vacuum them. Simply grab a hose attachment for your vacuum and go after the bugs you see. This gets rid of them quickly, with no pesticides, and you won’t have to worry about staining your floors.
If you find a boxelder bug colony you can use one of several homemade, natural solutions to get rid of them. For example, a mixture of either water and dishwashing detergent or water and vinegar can make their stay in or around your home very unpleasant. Simply mix up the solution, put it in a spray bottle and spray the colony. One of the biggest advantages of using these methods is the fact that they’re comprised of substances you already have around the house. Not only does that mean you can act immediately, it also means that you won’t be wasting money on expensive pesticides.
Try a few different options to find the right combination that will work for you. While all boxelder bugs are looking for the same thing, you won’t always know how a particular colony will react to a particular treatment and in some cases it make take a few tries to get rid of them for good. However, if you act quickly, follow the tips above and keep trying, you will eventually find success.