How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs in 3 Easy Steps

As the weather begins to cool, you may start noticing clusters of black and red bugs gathering on your walls, windows, and doors. These are boxelder bugs harmless to humans but undeniably irritating. Once they make their way indoors, they’re difficult to ignore and even harder to fully get rid of.

Luckily, with a little know-how and the right natural products, managing these pests is more straightforward than you might expect. If you're looking for a safe, chemical-free way to deal with them, keep reading. In this guide, we'll walk you through three easy and practical steps to help you take back your home.

What Are Boxelder Bugs?

Boxelder bugs are named after the boxelder tree, a variety of maple they’re strongly attracted to. These bugs are easily recognizable by their black bodies with distinctive reddish-orange markings. Though they don’t bite or damage homes, they can be a nuisance when they gather in large numbers especially around sunny exterior walls or windows.

When fall arrives, boxelder bugs seek warmth and shelter, often sneaking inside through cracks, vents, and door gaps. Once inside, they’ll hang out in wall voids, attics, and basements, waiting out the cold months. They don’t reproduce indoors, but their presence alone can cause headaches.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Boxelder Bugs

While these insects are not dangerous, letting them stay around can cause a few problems:

• They stain fabrics and walls: When crushed, boxelder bugs release a rusty-orange liquid that can leave stubborn stains.
  
• They emit a foul odor: Their scent acts as a defense mechanism and can linger if they are squashed.
  
• They can invite more pests: Where there’s warmth and food, other pests may follow.
  

By addressing the issue early, you can avoid these inconveniences and keep your living space more comfortable through the colder months.

Step 1: Seal Entry Points Around Your Home

The best way to deal with boxelder bugs is to stop them from entering in the first place. These bugs typically sneak in through small cracks, torn screens, and improperly sealed doors and windows.

Here’s what you can do:

• Inspect doors and windows: Check for gaps, broken seals, and damaged weatherstripping.
  
• Use caulk to seal cracks: Fill in any gaps around baseboards, utility pipes, and foundation walls.
  
• Install door sweeps: These are particularly helpful in preventing bugs from slipping in under exterior doors.
  
• Repair or replace screens: Damaged mesh screens are easy access points for these bugs.
  

Taking time to properly seal your home not only keeps out boxelder bugs but also improves your overall insulation for winter.

Step 2: Use Natural Cedar Oil-Based Bug Spray

Once you’ve secured your home, the next step is treating the areas where boxelder bugs are already gathering. That’s where cedar oil comes in a natural, safe, and effective solution.

Why Cedar Oil Works:

Cedarwood oil interferes with the insect’s ability to detect pheromones. Without these chemical signals, the bugs become disoriented and eventually leave the area. It’s a clean, plant-based alternative that doesn’t rely on toxic chemicals or synthetic ingredients.

How to Apply:

• Spray around entry points: Focus on doorways, window sills, and baseboards.
  
• Treat exterior areas: Spray around the perimeter of your home, especially near siding, vents, and cracks.
  
• Safe for indoor use: You can safely spray around furniture, pet beds, and children’s areas.
  

Best Product to Use:

Cedar Oil Store’s All-Purpose Bug Spray is an excellent option. It’s made with natural cedarwood oil and is safe for families, pets, and the environment. Unlike harsh chemical sprays, there’s no need to vacate your home during or after use.

Step 3: Maintain a Bug-Free Outdoor Zone

Your final step is all about prevention. Boxelder bugs are drawn to certain outdoor conditions, especially boxelder and maple trees, debris piles, and shady, moist areas.

Outdoor Tips to Keep Bugs Away:

• Clean up boxelder seeds and leaves: These attract bugs and give them a food source.
  
• Trim shrubs and trees near the house: Bugs use these as bridges to climb into your home.
  
• Clear mulch and leaf piles: Especially those near foundations, walls, or porches.
  
• Use cedar oil concentrate in your yard: Mix a cedar-based outdoor treatment and spray down areas near foundations, decks, and tree bases.
  

By removing the conditions they love, you make your home and yard a far less welcoming place for boxelder bugs to hang around.

Natural vs Chemical Solutions

When dealing with pests, it’s tempting to grab a big-name chemical spray from the store. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that these chemical pesticides can be harmful to your health, pets, and the environment.

Here’s why natural solutions like cedarwood oil make more sense:

Comparison Table:

Natural solutions are not only safer but also easier to use regularly without worrying about exposure.

When to Use a Stronger Treatment

If you’re dealing with a major infestation dozens or even hundreds of bugs daily spot spraying might not be enough. In such cases, consider using a more concentrated cedar oil treatment like Cedar Oil Store’s outdoor kits. These are ideal for large yards or heavily infested buildings.

You can also look into fogging treatments or contacting a professional pest control service that uses plant-based options.

Final Thoughts

Boxelder bugs might be seasonal guests, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them. Taking a proactive approach using natural solutions makes a world of difference.

Quick Recap – 3 Steps to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs:

• Seal up entry points like cracks and gaps
  
• Spray cedarwood oil products in indoor and outdoor trouble areas
  
• Keep your outdoor space clean and uninviting to these pests
  

These simple changes can help you enjoy a bug-free home, naturally and safely.