I don’t know what this nest is at my place, but it doesn’t really reassure me…
That was my first thought when I saw this strange cluster on my wall—tiny white eggs, half of them already hatched, surrounded by creepy little black-and-yellow bugs.
So I did what anyone would do in a moment of panic: I Googled it.
Turns out, it’s a freshly hatched stink bug nest—those are baby stink bugs (also called nymphs) just emerging from their eggs. And while they’re small now, they can quickly grow into a real infestation if left alone.
Here are a few tips and tricks I found to prevent stink bugs from taking over your space:
1. Spot the signs early
Stink bug eggs look like small, round, translucent barrels—usually stuck in neat clusters on walls, under leaves, or near windows. If you see them, don’t ignore them.
2. Remove the eggs safely
Don’t squish them (especially the bugs!)—stink bugs release a foul odor when crushed. Instead, use a piece of cardboard or a plastic scraper to gently remove the egg cluster, then drop it into a sealed plastic bag and throw it away outside.
3. Seal up entry points
These bugs are sneaky. Check for cracks around windows, doors, air vents, and wall sockets. Seal them up with caulk or weatherstripping to block their way in.
4. Use natural repellents
Essential oils like peppermint, clove, or tea tree oil are natural deterrents. Mix with water and spray around window frames and doors weekly. Bonus: your house will smell great.
5. Keep your space clean and dry
Stink bugs are attracted to warmth and moisture. Wipe down kitchen counters, fix any water leaks, and avoid leaving lights on at night near windows—they’re drawn to light like moths.
6. Install window screens
If you enjoy fresh air, make sure your windows have tight-fitting screens without holes. Stink bugs often fly in during seasonal changes (especially fall) looking for a warm place.
Bottom line? The earlier you catch them, the easier it is to keep your home bug-free. And trust me—you don’t want a whole colony of these guys roaming around.