Looking to get rid of some unwanted guests? Here's how to keep stink bugs at bay this year

What is that smell?

For many homeowners, it's a familiar one. It often comes with a look of dismay after an attempt to eradicate an unwanted creature ultimately leads to more trouble.

Stink bugs are finding their way back indoors as cooler weather returns, and along with it, another long battle between humans and unwanted pests taking up residence in homes.

The insects try to head indoors as the weather gets colder to establish diapause , a state that lowers their metabolism and renders them mostly inactive during the cold months. This state allows them to make it through the winter months without food.

Despite being undesirable for many homeowners, stink bugs are generally harmless to humans, aside from the undesirable smell they may produce.

There are many management options for those hoping to keep the bugs out.

Do stink bugs really stink?

According to the website WhatsThatBug.com , stink bugs release a liquid that has an unpleasant odor when they feel threatened. That scent is a deterrent to predators — who wants to eat something foul smelling?

How do stink bugs get in the house?

Stink bugs commonly enter through foundational cracks found throughout the house, like windows, door frames, vents, chimneys, pipes and siding.

How can I get rid of stink bugs?

When it comes to managing stink bugs that are found inside, a good option is to vacuum them. This is because the bugs will release the foul scent which earns them their namesake if squashed. Once vacuumed , emptying bugs in a sealable bag may prevent them from escaping.

How can I prevent stink bugs from getting into my house?

Stink bugs are good at entering through tight spaces, as they have been recorded to enter through cracks as small as three to seven millimeters wide. This makes it hard to ward off the bugs entirely, but sealing off any cracks before the winter starts can help to minimize their presence.

If you don't mind the smell, another option for keeping stink bugs out is spraying garlic where stink bugs may enter. Garlic is a natural repellent for the creatures.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Looking to get rid of some unwanted guests? Here's how to keep stink bugs at bay this year