How to Get Ladybugs to Stay Out of the House

Lady bugs may be pretty, but that doesn't mean you want them in your home.

People tend to tolerate ladybug more than any other form of insect. This is often due to the fact that ladybugs aren't poisonous and have a festive red body with black spots. They also don't damage clothes, furniture or the structure of your house the way other bugs do. In the winter time, you might find dozens of ladybugs in your home because these bugs like to hibernate in a nice warm spot. Even though these bugs won't bring any harm to you, most people aren't interested in sharing their home with dozens of bugs.

Things You'll Need

• Shop vacuum
• 2 cloths
• Woody putty
• Foam
• Diatomaceous earth

Instructions

1. Rent or purchase a shop vacuum. Open the debris compartment and verify that it is completely empty. Wipe it down with a damp cloth and allow it to dry.

2. Line the inside of the compartment with a soft cloth. Run the shop vacuum all along the floors, walls and furniture of your home, as well as any place you've seen a lady bug. When finished, take the shop vac outside immediately and release all sucked up lady bugs out into nature.

3. Inspect doors, floors, walls and screens in your home for cracks. Fill all cracks with wood putty or a comparable substance to prevent more ladybugs from entering. Fill loose window frames with foam.

4. Shake diatomaceous earth around the perimeter of your home. This is a natural lady bug and pest deterrent.

Tips & Warnings

• Bay leaves are also effective at deterring lady bugs.

References

• Ladybug Lady: Ladybug Frequently Asked Questions: Get the Facts
• Basic Info 4 Organic Fertilizers: What Companion Plants To Use Against Pests