Does Diatomaceous Earth Really Kill Stink Bugs? We Asked Pest Pros

Diatomaceous earth (often called DE) is a naturally occurring, abrasive powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It has a wide range of applications, but is most well-known as a natural pest control agent.

It works by damaging the insects’ exoskeletons, leading to eventual dehydration and death. Since DE requires a dry environment to work best, it is most commonly used in and around the home.

Food-grade diatomaceous earth can effectively control various crawling and flying insects, including ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, silverfish, fleas, and more. But is this natural solution just as effective at controlling pesky stink bugs in the home?

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Diatomaceous Earth and Stink Bugs

While diatomaceous earth is an effective, natural pest control agent against various insects, the experts agree it is not the best option for managing stink bugs in the home. 

“Technically, DE can kill them, but don’t think about it as a magical means,” says Nicole Carpenter, President at Black Pest Prevention. “Stink bugs’ armor is much tougher than that of softer-bodied insects, so DE works slowly (if at all). The bug needs to crawl through it for a long time to get scratched up,”

Additionally, stink bugs are known for hiding in small cracks, crevices, walls, and baseboards around the home, meaning they may naturally avoid any DE treatments you set out.

So, can it work? Potentially. But it’s not a guaranteed solution. But if you want to give DE a try in your fight against stink bugs, there are a few things you should know. 

“For homeowners who want to try this solution, the key is to spread a thin layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth with a face mask in the right places—specifically around doors, windows, and other entry points that you feel could be entries into your home,” says Kris Bagnara, associate certified entomologist and Director of Service at All U Need Pest Control. 

While it may be tempting to leave large piles of diatomaceous earth in areas prone to stink bugs, Bagnara insists that more isn’t always better. Stink bugs are likely to avoid any obvious piles or barriers, so a thin, inconspicuous layer is best.

How to Control Stinkbugs in the Home

If you’re looking to control stink bugs quickly and effectively in your home, Carpenter and Bagnara agree that DE isn’t the way to go.

Instead, focus on perimeter treatments to prevent these sneaky pests from making their way inside your home. Stink bugs are attracted to light, warmth, and food, so if they can find a way inside, they always will. 

“Sealing up cracks and entry points, removing debris around your home, making sure your garage door is sealed and windows are shut tightly, and removing any standing moisture around and in your home are always the most effective ways to prevent stink bugs from getting inside in the first place,” Bagnara says.

So, what about the ones that have already set up camp inside your home? For these unwanted residents, Bagnara says that vacuuming them up is the best way to get rid of them. It’s quick, effective, and practical. 

If you find yourself vacuuming up a never-ending parade of stink bugs in your home, and you’ve already tried tackling perimeter treatments, that’s when it’s time to get a professional involved.

A licensed pest control specialist will be able to quickly identify potential entry points, apply effective perimeter treatments, and offer customized, year-round treatments to help prevent and manage stink bug infestations.