Updated on Oct. 21, 2024
What's that unpleasant smell? It may be an infestation of stink bugs. We found the best stink bug repellent options to send these putrid pests packing.
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If you’ve ever smelled a stink bug you already know that while they won’t damage your home, they a common pest that you definitely don’t want anywhere near your home. Stink bugs produce a particularly foul ordor if they feel threatened or get stepped on, and if left untreated, a stink bug infestation can become a deeply unpleasant, smelly situation.
Choosing a good stink bug repellent can rid your home of stink bugs and help prevent unwanted smells. Whether you opt for an at-home remedy, spray, or ultrasonic device, keeping your house free from pungent-smelling pests is affordable, safe, and easy.
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly, organic stink bug repellent, Dyna-Gro’s Pure Neem Oil is a natural and biodegradable product extracted and cold-pressed from the seeds of the Neem tree. Besides being an excellent leaf polish, it has long been used by farmers and horticulturists to organically control stink bugs.
When mixed with water and applied to leaves, Dyna-Gro’s Neem oil works its way into the “tissues” of the plant to deter stink bugs from eating and mating. This natural insect repellent works on other garden pests, too.
For a no-fuss and humane solution to your stink bug problem, out-smart ’em with the Neatmaster Ultrasonic Pest Repeller. Using three operational modes—bionic, electromagnetic and ultrasound technology—the Neatmaster quietly drives away stink bugs and other pests.
Bonus: There’s no toxic chemicals, traps or sprays to worry about. Just plug it into a standard wall outlet and set the level of infestation: green for low, blue for medium and red for high. This ultrasonic repeller works on areas up to 1,200 square feet.
If you’re looking for the best stink bug repellent to use on tents, umbrellas and clothing, pick up Sawyer Insect Repellent. It protects you from ticks, mosquitoes and spiders, too. It’s safe to spray on most fabrics and creates a barrier against stink bugs and other irritating pests.
Permethrin, a compound derived from chrysanthemums flowers, helps it to bond to fabrics without stains or damage. When the repellent dries, it’s completely odorless (unlike the stink bugs themselves). It lasts up to 42 days or six washings, whichever comes first.
The BugZooka bug catcher vacuum provides a squish-free way to rid yourself of these odorous pests, while still keeping your distance. The battery-powered, long-handled wand sucks the bugs into a removable tube. Then, once at a safe distance outdoors, press the button to release the stinkers. It makes a great gift for someone who hates bugs.
There are thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon, including one happy customer, Calli, who calls the BugZooka her “secret weapon.” She says: “Not only are stink bugs the nastiest, creepiest creatures ever, they supposedly give off a horrid smell if you smush them. What to do? Happily, the BugZooka doesn’t smush them or activate their stink.”
Certain essential oils smell good to us, but not so much to stink bugs. Infusing water with clove oil, lemongrass oil and spearmint oil (or a combination of the three, called a ternary oil blend) has been shown to repel stink bugs.
To formulate the best stink bug repellent that’s safe around kids and pets, gather the following ingredients and supplies:
Place a funnel into the opening of an empty spray bottle and pour in hot water until the bottle is three-quarters full. Add ten drops of each of the three oils, screw on the trigger-squeeze top and shake well to blend. Spray the solution wherever you suspect stink bugs may be hiding or entering your home. The buggers usually enter around windows, doors, cracks and unsealed voids.
A team of researchers at Virginia Tech found a simple do-it-yourself solution to indoor stink bug problems. Craft your own stink bug trap using stuff you have around the house. You’ll need a roasting pan, water, dish soap and a desk lamp.
Harris Stink Bug Killer offers a ready-to-use, odorless formula that precisely targets stink bugs and silently eliminates them upon drying. Registered by the Environmental Protection Agency for both indoor and outdoor use, it contains deltamethrin, a long-acting insecticide that maintains its effectiveness for weeks after application.
Equipped with an extended trigger sprayer, it facilitates easy treatment of bug-prone areas like attics, basements, under furniture, ventilation grilles and more. Additionally, it effectively tackles kudzu bugs, the bothersome relatives of stink bugs.
When selecting a stink bug repellent, consider the type, whether you prefer a natural or chemical formula, the size of the area you want to cover and the scent, if any, of the product. Stink bug repellents most commonly come in spray, powder and trap form. Some people prefer to use an ultrasonic repellent device or vacuum-style catchers. While these devices help remove stink bugs from your home, they may not be effective in preventing future outbreaks.
Sprays can be natural or chemical, and while natural products are safer and better for the environment, sometimes chemical products can be more potent. Think about your comfort level using a chemical spray, especially if you have children or pets. An added benefit of sprays is that they are affordable and easy to find at a local hardware store. Additionally, chemical stink bug repellents usually have some odor, which some people may find offensive, while naturally scented repellents are usually more pleasant-smelling.
Choose a stink but repellent suited to your target area. Indoor repellents are not strong enough for outdoor use, and outdoor repellents should not be used in enclosed spaces. Make sure you purchase enough products to treat the infestation thoroughly.
There are many ways to keep stink bugs out of your home. Here is a quick list of tips to keep your space stink-bug-free.
Although stink bugs do not harm humans and pets, they harm plants and crops. They love to feed on fruits, vegetables and exotic plants. They’re pesky but won’t harm you. Note: Some stink bugs can bite if treated, which can cause some skin irritation.
Toni DeBella, the author of this piece, is a writer, copyeditor, journalist, and DIY expert who has contributed product reviews, travel and lifestyle content to publications including The Telegraph, Fodor’s, Italy Magazine, DK Eyewitness Travel Guides and Orvieto or Bust. She’s reviewed outdoor products ranging from pest control to pool cabanas and owned a faux-finishing, mural and furniture-painting business.
Ridding your home of stink bugs is easy as long as you choose the right products. That’s why we looked for stink bug repellents that are the most consistently effective. We combed through a wide range of products, paying close attention to natural and chemical ingredients.
For those who prefer strictly natural methods, we sought DIY options for repellents and traps using affordable everyday ingredients. We considered the safety of each product and then narrowed down our top choices based on customer reviews, cost and value.
To prevent stink bugs from entering your home, seal any exposed cracks and gaps around pipes, doors, windows, light switches and any other potential openings with silicone or silicone and latex caulk. Replace broken or torn window screens and swap out bright white lightbulbs for yellow lightbulbs, as stink bugs find them unattractive. If you think you might have an infestation, consult a professional who can determine the severity and help you seal off any points of entry.
Stink bugs are sensitive to odors and smell like humans, and certain smells are incredibly effective at keeping stink bugs away. Natural scents, like garlic and mint, will keep stink bugs from feeding on your houseplants. Essential oils also work well at naturally repelling stink bugs. Mixing spearmint, lemongrass and clove oils into water and spraying them in areas where you think stink bugs may be present is a pet-safe and child-safe way to keep them away.
Stink bugs can be attracted to your home for many reasons, including warmth, light, scents, and cracks and crevices. Each one of these can lead to the bugs making their way into your home. The best way to ensure the bugs stay out is to secure openings in your doors and windows and apply check caulking around your home.
The easiest way to rid your home of stink bugs is to cut them off at the source. Seal up any holes or cracks you notice in your home, like by windows or doors.
