These simple tips and tricks will get a wasp out of your house fast — and stop others from coming in. No more panicking when a wasp invades your home!
Wasps, the social insects that usually mind their own business, occasionally decide to pay us a visit in our homes. They might be uninvited, but it’s essential to remember their vital role in the ecosystem. So, before you reach for that swatter, consider more compassionate and eco-friendly ways to coexist with these fascinating creatures.
Start by taking preventative measures and learn how to keep wasps away in the first place. But if you’re already facing a buzzing intruder, don’t worry! We’re here to guide you on how to get a wasp out of your house.
Resisting the urge to kill these unwanted guests is essential. Wasps play a crucial role in regulating other insect populations and providing sustenance for various bird species. Plus, squashing a wasp can release chemicals that attract even more wasps — and the last thing you want is an entire nest of them! So, let’s explore how to handle these uninvited visitors safely and sustainably.
Interested in learning more about the role of wasps in nature? Check out What Do Wasps Do for the Environment? Do We Need Them?
Is It a Wasp, Hornet or Bee?
Before getting started with how to get a wasp out of your house, you need to determine whether you’re dealing with a wasp, hornet or bee.
How to Identify a Wasp:
- Wasps typically have more distinct stripes, slender and elongated bodies and a pinched waist. In contrast, bees are rounder and fuzzier, with less defined markings. Additionally, wasps have smooth, shiny skin, while bees have tiny hairs covering their bodies, which help them collect pollen.
- In the US, paper wasps and yellow jackets are the most common wasp types. Paper wasps showcase various colors, such as yellow, brown, red, and black, while yellow jackets possess broader bodies and black antennae.
- Hornets are a more aggressive and larger wasp species, easily identified by their bright yellow stripes.
Behaviorally, wasps are more aggressive and likely to sting, whereas bees are generally docile and will sting only when threatened.
Tip: Stay safe by familiarizing yourself with the different types of wasps to watch out for.
Once you’ve identified your buzzing visitor as a wasp, you can proceed with our guide on how to get a wasp out of your house effectively and safely.
Remember, bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem and need our protection. Bee extinction would be bad news for the planet — read 10 Small Ways to Help Bees That Will Make a Difference to do your part to support bee populations.
10 Tips & Tricks For How to Get a Wasp out of Your House
Follow these comprehensive instructions to learn how to get a wasp out of your house and other indoor spaces safely and effectively:
- Remain calm. Wasps are sensitive to erratic movements, like arm-waving and frenzied circling, which they perceive as threats. To avoid provoking them, stay calm and maintain your distance. They’re more likely to lose interest in you if you remain composed.
- Open windows and doors. Creating multiple exit points increases the chances of the wasp finding its way out on its own.
- Remove pets from the area. Pets might attempt to catch insects (we’re thinking cats and golden retrievers, here), but wasp stings can be harmful or even fatal to them. Safely relocate your pets to another space while you handle the wasp situation.
- Minimize the wasp’s range. If you can safely do so, confine the wasp to a specific area while it works its way out. Use pieces of cardboard, close net curtains or employ other barriers to help guide the wasp towards an exit.
- Use a fan. Wasps typically avoid flying in strong winds, so setting up a fan near an open window or door can encourage them to leave. Turn the fan on a high, cool setting to create a draft that will gently nudge the wasp toward the exit.
- Reach for some mint. Wasps dislike the aroma of mint. Create a mixture of peppermint oil and water, and spray it strategically in the wasp’s vicinity to guide it towards an exit. However, avoid spraying the wasp directly, as the mint solution can kill the insect.
- Use a wasp trap. To attract the wasp, create a DIY wasp trap using a plastic bottle with some sweet liquid, like soda or fruit juice. Cut the top of the bottle off, invert it, and place it back into the bottom half to create a funnel leading into the liquid. Once the wasp enters the trap, it will be difficult to escape. Once the wasp is trapped, carefully release it outside.
- Use a long object. If the wasp sits on a window or wall, gently use a long object like a broom or mop to nudge it toward the open window or door. Be cautious not to harm the wasp or provoke it to sting.
- Turn off indoor lights. Wasps are attracted to light. By turning off indoor lights and increasing natural light from outside by opening curtains or blinds, you can encourage the wasp to move towards the open window or door.
- Wear protective clothing. If you need to approach the wasp to guide it out of your house, consider wearing long sleeves, pants, and gloves to minimize the risk of being stung. Avoid wearing bright colors or floral patterns, as they can attract wasps. Instead, opt for light, neutral-colored clothing.
Remember to always prioritize safety while handling wasps, and avoid using harmful chemicals or aggressive methods that can harm both you and the wasp.
Top Tips to Keep Wasps Out of Your Home
Once you’ve safely learned how to get a wasp out of your house, take preventive measures to avoid future unwelcome visits. Here are some practical tips to deter wasps and other insects from entering your home:
- Embrace the power of mint. Plant mint around your doorways and windows, or place potted mint plants in these areas. The aroma will act as a natural deterrent, discouraging wasps from entering your home.
- Secure your sweet treats. Wasps are attracted to sugar, so be mindful of open sugar sources in your kitchen. Keep jars and containers tightly sealed, particularly those with sticky residue on the rim, such as honey or maple syrup. This practice will also help keep wasps away from outdoor picnic foods.
- Use citronella. Like mosquitoes, wasps dislike citronella. Use citronella candles or essential oils around your home or outdoor living areas to create an unwelcoming environment for flying insects.
- Choose your fabrics wisely. Wasps are drawn to the color yellow. To avoid inadvertently attracting them, opt for fabrics and clothing in different colors, particularly for outdoor furniture and clothing.
- Limit strong fragrances during warmer months. Wasps are attracted to potent scents. Be selective with your perfumes, colognes and aftershaves during the summer, as strong fragrances can unintentionally invite wasps.
- Seal potential entry points. Inspect your home for cracks, gaps or holes in walls, window frames and door frames. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these possible entry points, preventing wasps and other insects from gaining access to your home.
- Maintain a clean environment. Regularly clean your indoor and outdoor living spaces to eliminate food sources that may attract wasps. Keep trash cans covered with tight-fitting lids and promptly clean up any spills, crumbs or leftover food inside and outside your home.
- Install insect screens. Consider installing insect screens on windows and doors. These screens allow you to enjoy fresh air and natural light while keeping wasps and other flying insects at bay.
Guiding a wasp back outside is the most compassionate approach when dealing with these uninvited guests. By following these preventive measures for how to get a wasp out of your house and keep it out, you can create a more harmonious living space for both you and your local insect population.
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Read more:
- 7 Natural Pesticides for Your Home and Garden
- Are Bumble Bees Dangerous?
- How to Get Spiders out of Your Basement
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