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No one wants to see big clusters of bugs around their home, but each fall, it’s common to spot just that—especially if you’re dealing with boxelder bugs. These black-and-red pests often gather on siding, porches, and sometimes even indoors as temperatures drop.
At All-American Pest Control, we’ve been helping Middle Tennessee homeowners handle seasonal pest problems for decades. Here’s what you need to know about why boxelder bugs cluster near homes, and how to keep them out.
Why Are There So Many Boxelder Bugs Around My House?
If you’re seeing boxelder bugs, chances are you have boxelder, maple, or ash trees nearby. These are their primary food sources.
In the fall, boxelder bugs migrate to warm, sheltered places to survive the winter. They’re especially attracted to sunny, southwest-facing walls and light-colored siding. From there, it’s a short trip indoors through cracks, vents, or window gaps.
When Are Boxelder Bugs Most Active?
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Fall: Peak activity as they look for overwintering spots.
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Winter: They hide quietly inside wall voids or attics.
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Spring: They reappear as they leave their hiding places.
If you see them suddenly disappear, it doesn’t mean they’re gone. It usually means they’ve settled into hidden areas of your home until spring.
Are Boxelder Bugs Harmful?
The good news: boxelder bugs aren’t dangerous. They don’t bite, sting, or spread disease. They also don’t damage the structure of your home.
But they are a nuisance. In large numbers, they can:
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Stain walls, curtains, and upholstery
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Give off an unpleasant odor when crushed
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Create stressful infestations year after year
How Long Do Boxelder Bugs Stick Around?
Once they find a way inside, boxelder bugs usually stay through winter. They often return to the same hiding spots every year. Without prevention, you’ll likely continue to see them each fall.
What Attracts Boxelder Bugs to Homes?
Boxelder bugs are drawn to:
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Nearby seed-bearing trees (boxelder, maple, ash)
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Heat-retaining surfaces like brick or vinyl siding
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Cracks around windows, doors, vents, and fascia
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Unsealed gaps where light escapes
DIY Ways to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs
If you already have boxelder bugs indoors, try:
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Vacuuming instead of crushing them (to avoid stains/odor)
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Spraying with soapy water to kill them on contact
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Sealing gaps with caulk and weather stripping
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Essential oil sprays as a mild repellent
These methods help with visible bugs, but they won’t reach the ones already hiding in walls or attics.
Do Vinegar or Cinnamon Really Work?
Strong scents like vinegar or cinnamon may keep bugs out of specific areas, but they don’t eliminate infestations and they are not a long term solution.
For a more natural yet effective option, consider our Green Choice Pest Control program, which uses eco-friendly treatments that don’t just repel pests—they eliminate them.
Can Traps Catch Boxelder Bugs?
Sticky traps may snag a few, but they aren’t practical for the huge clusters boxelder bugs form. The most effective way to keep them out is through entry-point sealing and routine perimeter treatments.
When to Call Professional Pest Control
It may be time to consider expert help if:
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DIY methods aren’t working
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Boxelder bugs return every fall
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You’re finding them inside regularly
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You want to prevent overwintering before it begins
With All-American’s Complete Care Pest Control, you’ll get protection from boxelder bugs and over 57 other common Tennessee pests all year long.
Start Your Boxelder Bug Prevention Today
Fall is the best time to stop boxelder bugs before they settle in. At All-American Pest Control, we offer a free home evaluation to identify vulnerable areas around your home.
Don’t wait for boxelder bugs to move in—contact us today and let’s keep your home pest-free this season.
Contact Us for Boxelder Bug Control
Your Trusted Nashville, TN Pest Control Experts
Since 1961, All-American Pest Control has been your go-to team of trusted pest experts for homes, businesses, and home builders throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Our expert team offers termite treatments, mosquito reduction, rodent removal, ant and spider control, and wasp nest removal—keeping your property protected year-round. As a local, family-owned company, we take pride in offering reliable, professional pest solutions with outstanding customer service.
We proudly serve: Adams, Ashburn, Barren Plains, Bethpage, Bransford, Castalian Springs, Cedar Hill, Coopertown, Cottontown, Cross Plains, Gallatin, Goodlettsville, Greenbrier, Hartsville, Hendersonville, Madison, Millersville, Orlinda, Pleasentville, Portland, Ridgetop, Springfield, Westmoreland, White House, and the entire Robertson County, Sumner Country and Greater Nashville areas.
For trusted pest control in Nashville, TN, and these surrounding communities, contact All American Pest Control today! Call (615) 824-8814 or schedule a free home evaluation.