Have you been spotting small, shield-shaped, brownish-tan bugs crawling along your curtains, walls, or even light fixtures? Chances are, you’ve got stink bugs. While these pests don’t breed or live permanently indoors, they often slip inside when temperatures drop, looking for a cozy place to spend the winter. By spring, they reappear—catching many homeowners off guard. That’s why stink bugs are a nuisance in both fall and spring. But are they actually harmful? Let’s take a closer look.
Why Stink Bugs Get Inside
As the weather cools, stink bugs start searching for warmth and protection. In nature, they hide under tree bark for the winter. Around homes, they’re drawn to sunny exterior walls and will squeeze through tiny cracks or gaps to get inside.
Common ways stink bugs enter:
- Cracks in siding, gaps around windows or doors
- Torn window or door screens
- Uncovered chimneys
- Damaged or missing weather stripping under doors
- Older homes with more unsealed entry points
- Hitchhiking indoors on firewood, plants, or even clothing
If you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with stink bugs or another pest, check out our guide on Squash Bugs vs. Stink Bugs to learn the key differences.
Are Stink Bugs Dangerous to People?
The good news is, stink bugs aren’t harmful to humans. They don’t bite, sting, or spread diseases. Their biggest defense is the foul-smelling liquid they release when threatened. While it’s mostly unpleasant, it can cause mild eye irritation if it comes into contact—so wash your hands after handling them and avoid rubbing your eyes.
Are Stink Bugs Harmful to Pets?
For pets, stink bugs are more of a gross experience than a dangerous one. If a curious dog or cat eats one, they may drool, gag, or vomit due to the bug’s bitter-tasting secretion. The reaction is usually mild, and pets tend to learn quickly to leave these pests alone.
Can Stink Bugs Damage Your Belongings?
Yes, they can. When squished or startled, stink bugs can leave stubborn stains on curtains, couches, carpets, and other fabrics. While some marks can be cleaned, prevention is the best approach—vacuum them up instead of crushing them.
Why You See Them in Spring
If stink bugs show up in your home during spring, it’s not because they just got inside—it’s because they’ve been hiding out all winter. They tuck themselves behind walls, baseboards, window trim, and other hidden spots. When warmer weather arrives, they become active again, often wandering around as they look for a way back outside.
How to Prevent & Get Rid of Stink Bugs
Want to keep stink bugs from making themselves at home? Here are a few prevention tips:
- Seal gaps and cracks around windows, doors, siding, and your home’s foundation
- Repair or replace torn screens
- Trim bushes, shrubs, and tree branches so they don’t touch your home
- Keep grass and weeds under control near the house
- Minimize outdoor lighting at night to avoid attracting them
- Schedule seasonal pest control treatments for long-term protection
Professional Stink Bug Control with Squash A Bug
Stink bugs might not bite, but that doesn’t mean you want them sharing your space. At Squash A Bug Pest Control, we provide year-round solutions to keep your home pest-free in every season. From sealing entry points to applying targeted treatments, our experts know exactly how to squash the problem—before it stinks.
Call us today or request a free quote to protect your home from stink bugs and other seasonal pests.
