How to Prevent Stick Bugs From Infesting Your Home

Did you know that stick bugs can actually play dead when threatened? That’s right! When a stick bug senses danger, it’ll stop what they’re doing and fall to the ground like an actual stick! That’s the idea since they want to fool their predators into thinking they’re nothing but a stick on the ground.

As neat and interesting as stick bugs are, we don’t want them in our homes. Unfortunately, these insects can sometimes find their way into our homes, which isn’t ideal for them or us. On the brighter side of things, there are several things you can do to prevent a stick bug from entering your home.

Continue reading below to learn more!

Check Door and Window Seals

A great way to prevent insects from entering your home is to check your doors and windows for any imperfections in the seals. If you notice a crack in the seal, do be sure to reseal them. Tiny insects can enter through these cracks, including stick bugs. 

Any holes in the screens on windows and doors should also be repaired. These are all welcoming signs to tiny insects. You may also want to consider having professional pest control services assess the situation for you. 

Read on to learn more about how pest control services might benefit you. 

Patch All Holes Around the House

Aside from cracks in the seals on doors and windows, you should be looking for holes around the house as well. This is true for both the inside and outside of your home. You should inspect your home for small openings on a regular basis. 

Some things to be on the lookout for are as followed:

  • missing roof shingles
  • loose siding
  • cracks in the foundation
  • openings around utility lines

Have an expert come out to seal these imperfections correctly or use copper mesh, sheet metal, or something similar to patch them up yourself. If you use expanding caulk, keep in mind that many pests can chew through this over time. 

Clean on a Daily Basis

Although insects can infest even the cleanest homes, it’s still important to clean your home on a daily basis. Insects love to find hiding places inside a home where they also have access to water and a food source. For this reason, it’s a good idea to remove all clutter from inside the home.

Trash and recyclables should also be disposed of properly. All trash cans should also have lids that seal properly. Any spills should be cleaned up as soon as they happen to prevent attracting stick bugs and other insects. 

Reduce Moisture Levels

Aside from food and a cover over their heads, stick bugs will also need water. If your home has any signs of high moisture levels, then you should find the source of the water and correct the issue. Any leaks inside and outside of the home should be fixed immediately. 

Be sure to do regular checks around the home for leaks (under sinks, behind appliances, and more). 

Redirect Stick Bugs Away From Your Home

Although stick bugs don’t pose any danger to humans, we don’t want them in our homes. Use these tips listed above to redirect stick bugs from your home and to keep them outdoors where they truly belong. 

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