How to Get Rid of Wasps in Your House: A Homeowner's Guide

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on March 04, 2023 · 3 mins read

Are you tired of seeing wasps buzzing around your backyard? Do you worry about finding a wasp nest inside your home? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll teach you how to identify wasps, how to safely remove their nests, and how to keep them from coming back.

DIY Wasp removal recommendations

For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.

What are Wasps?

Wasps are insects that belong to the Hymenoptera order, which also includes bees and ants. They have two pairs of wings and a narrow waist. Unlike bees, wasps are not fuzzy and do not collect pollen. There are many different species of wasps, but most are either paper wasps, yellow jackets, or hornets.

Why Do Wasps Enter Your Home?

Wasps enter homes for a variety of reasons, including looking for food, shelter, or a place to build their nest. Female wasps will often build their nests in sheltered areas such as attics, eaves, or wall voids. If you see wasps entering your home on a regular basis, there’s a good chance they have built a nest inside.

How to Identify a Wasp Nest

Identifying a wasp nest is the first step in getting rid of them. Paper wasp nests are made of a papery material and are shaped like an upside-down umbrella. Yellow jacket nests are usually found underground or in cavities, and can be identified by a small hole where the wasps enter and exit. Hornet nests are large, gray, and round, and are usually found in trees or bushes.

How to Safely Remove a Wasp Nest

Removing a wasp nest can be dangerous, especially if you are allergic to their stings. It’s best to hire a professional pest control company to do the job. However, if you decide to do it yourself, make sure you wear protective clothing, including gloves, long sleeves, pants, and a hat with a veil. You should also do the removal at night when the wasps are less active.

To remove the nest, spray it with a wasp and hornet spray, which can be purchased at any hardware store. Spray the entrance of the nest first, then saturate the entire nest. Wait at least 24 hours before removing the nest to ensure all the wasps are dead.

How to Keep Wasps Out of Your Home

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping wasps out of your home. Here are some tips to help deter them:

  • Seal any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior walls.
  • Keep your garbage cans tightly sealed and away from your home.
  • Remove any fallen fruit from your yard.
  • Keep your doors and windows closed as much as possible.
  • Avoid wearing sweet-smelling perfumes or lotions when spending time outdoors.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to identify wasps, remove their nests, and keep them from coming back, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about getting stung. Remember, if you’re unsure about removing a wasp nest or are allergic to their stings, it’s always best to call in the professionals.