How To Get Rid of Wasps

Our homes offer the perfect location for wasps to build a nest in spring and a safe spot for new queen wasps to hibernate over winter. Follow these steps to get rid of wasps.

Maintain your building: The most common way wasps, and other nuisance pests, gain entry inside buildings are via cracks and deteriorating patches. Examine the roof and walls of your house, and seal up any openings. You can also use insect mesh to safely cover air bricks and cable points to stop wasps coming inside.

De-clutter your home: Dispose of any unused boxes in your roof, garage or shed as these are ideal locations for wasps to build their nests.

Install equipment: You may have frequent problems in the kitchen with wasps, as the smell of food tempts insects to the area. Installing screens on windows and doors will stop wasps entering your home, while allowing your outdoor access points to be kept opened when needed.

Check for wasp nests: In early spring, wasp nests are small (often the size of a golf ball). This is a good time to treat a wasp nest and minimise the risk of multiple wasp stings. If you discover a wasp nest inside your home don’t seal up the entrance point. Wasps will find another way to access the nest, such as navigating through vents or even chewing through dry wall! This will leave you with an even bigger problem on your hands. See our article on "How To Get Rid of A Wasp Nest" for more info.

Wasps are a natural part of our ecosystem and often forage for food and supplies in our gardens. If you are concerned about the number of stinging insects you have noticed you can take steps to reduce wasp activity. 

Keep clean: Exposed human food and rubbish will attempt wasps to the area. Ensure your bins are not overflowing, and are a safe distance from your windows. Each bin lid should also be tightly secured without any wear or tear on the side of your bins. Don’t forgot to maintain high levels of hygiene indoors – avoid leaving out food & drinks or having sugary residue left on surfaces for a long period of time. Check that the insects have not crawled into your drink before you take a sip!

Look after your garden: Over-ripe vegetables or fruit are prime targets for wasps. Do not let your hard efforts go to waste and harvest your produce before it rots! If you’re having trouble with a compost pile attracting too many wasps consider composting indoors. Another suggestion is to apply a wood treatment product to wooden sheds, fence panels and other garden furniture. As wasps strip the wood to use as construction material to build their nest.

Invest in a wasp trap: If you spend a lot of time outside or notice wasp activity in a specific area consider purchasing a wasp trap. There are a variety of wasp traps available to catch and kill the insects.

Try essential oils: An alternative natural solution to deter wasps are essential oils. Dab a combination of essential oils, such as clover, germanium and lemongrass, on your windows and doors. Alternatively add a mint and rosemary plant to your garden, especially if you have sweet smelling plants or fruit trees.

Book our Wasp Nest Removal Service if you think you have a problem.

Author: NBC Environment/Orkin