How To Get Rid Of Boxelder Bugs
If you’re a home or business owner dealing with boxelder bugs on your own, the best approach is a combination of prevention, exclusion, and targeted treatment. These insects don’t cause structural damage, but they can become a major nuisance when they invade buildings in large numbers, especially in the fall as they seek overwintering sites. Here’s how to get rid of boxelder bugs:
Exclusion (Most Important Step):
Seal entry points: Inspect your property for gaps around windows, doors, siding, rooflines, vents, and utility openings. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or fine mesh screens to block entry.
Repair damaged screens: Ensure all window and door screens are intact and fit tightly.
Close gaps under doors: Install or replace door sweeps to prevent insects from slipping in.
Habitat Modification Outdoors:
Remove host trees: Boxelder bugs feed primarily on female boxelder trees and sometimes maple or ash. Removing or replacing female seed-bearing boxelders near your building can reduce populations over time.
Trim vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs pruned back from the structure so bugs don’t easily migrate onto walls and roofs.
Rake up seed pods and debris: Boxelder bugs feed on fallen seeds, so cleaning up reduces food sources.
Physical Removal:
Vacuuming indoors: If they make it inside, the safest method is vacuuming them up and disposing of the bag. Avoid crushing them, as they release an unpleasant odor and can stain surfaces.
Soapy water spray: A simple solution of dish soap and water kills boxelder bugs on contact. Spray directly on bugs you see congregating on siding or windows.
Outdoor Treatments:
Soapy water outside: Apply soapy water to clusters of bugs on the sunny side of your house where they gather.
Insecticides (optional): Residual insecticides labeled for exterior perimeter treatment can reduce numbers if applied to entry points and surfaces where bugs congregate. However, timing is critical—treat in late summer or early fall before they start moving indoors.
Indoor Chemical Treatments (Not Recommended):
Avoid spraying insecticides inside your home or business. They don’t prevent new bugs from entering, and spraying indoors often creates more mess than it solves.
Focus on sealing cracks, removing nearby host trees or debris, and using soapy water sprays for spot treatments. Vacuum any that get inside.
The Best Way To Get Rid Of Boxelder Bugs
Our professional pest control is the best way to get rid of boxelder bugs because these insects are persistent, seasonal invaders that require more than a quick DIY fix. While homeowners may try vacuuming, sealing cracks, or applying over-the-counter sprays, these methods often provide only temporary relief. Our professionals bring the expertise, tools, and treatments necessary to eliminate infestations effectively and prevent them from coming back. Here’s why our professional pest control stands above DIY approaches for boxelder bugs:
Thorough Inspection & Targeted Treatment – Our professionals identify where boxelder bugs are nesting, entering, and congregating. We apply treatments directly to problem areas rather than just reacting to bugs indoors.
Preventive Barrier Applications – Our experts use professional-grade products to create an exterior barrier around homes and businesses, stopping boxelder bugs before they can get inside.
Seasonal Timing – We know when these pests are most active (late summer and fall as they seek shelter). Correctly timed treatments dramatically reduce infestations indoors.
Safe & Effective Products – Our professionals use EPA-approved solutions that are stronger and longer lasting than store-bought sprays, yet safe for families, pets, and businesses when applied correctly.
Long-Term Prevention – Instead of just killing visible bugs, we seal entry points, remove attractants, and provide ongoing protection to prevent recurring infestations each year.
Peace of Mind – With our expert help, you don’t have to spend time, money, and effort on trial-and-error methods. You get guaranteed results and protection from recurring swarms.
While DIY methods may help with short-term relief, our professional pest control services provide comprehensive, lasting protection against boxelder bugs—keeping homes and businesses pest-free through both treatment and prevention.