How to Get Rid of Wasps & Keep Them From Coming Back

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Keep your home and yard wasp-free with this expert guide
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There are few things worse than trying to enjoy a nice summer day and getting swarmed by wasps. Don’t panic—there are several ways you can safely and easily eliminate wasps. We interviewed pest control specialist Chris Parker to teach you everything you need to know to get rid of wasps and wasp nests in your home and yard. We’ll also teach how to prevent future infestations, explain the signs of an infestation, and tell you what attracts wasps in the first place. Plus, learn how to identify different types of wasps and get answers to other common questions about wasps.

How do you get rid of wasps?

The quickest way to get rid of wasps is to spray them and their nest with a commercial wasp spray. To get rid of wasps naturally, spray them with a mix of dish soap and water or water and peppermint essential oil. Keep your home and yard free of food, trash, and standing water to avoid attracting wasps.

Section 1 of 9:

How to Get Rid of Wasps in Your Home

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  1. Mix 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of dish soap per 1 cup (240 mL) of water in a spray bottle. Locate the wasps and spray them until they stop moving. Spray down any entry points or areas you’ve seen activity. This solution is ideal for getting rid of wasps in your home, as it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals. [1]
    • It’s better to use natural repellents indoors rather than commercial wasp sprays, as those contain harsh chemicals you don’t want to breathe in.
  2. The smell of peppermint is known to deter wasps, so this is a great way to get rid of wasps naturally. [2] Mix a few drops of peppermint oil , a couple tablespoons of dish soap, and some water in a spray bottle. Then, spray the solution on wasps and any potential entry points around your home. Be sure to apply enough to soak the wasps completely.
    • The soap will help the oil stick to the application area and suffocate the wasps. Shampoo can also work in a pinch.
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  3. Cut the neck off of a 0.528 gallon (2.00 L) plastic bottle. Remove the cap, turn the neck upside down, and let it rest inside the opening of the bottom half of the bottle. Place duct tape or packing tape horizontally along the connection point between the 2 bottle pieces, then fill the bottle with sugar water, soda, or pieces of meat and protein. Hang it by taping strings to it or screwing a hole to affix it to a piece of wood. Be sure to hang the trap away from high-traffic areas so no one gets stung. [3]
    • Wipe a layer of cooking oil around the edges of the trap so that it becomes too slippery for the wasps to stand on.
    • Before emptying the trap, freeze it or pour boiling water into it to kill any remaining wasps.
    • If you don’t want to make your own trap , buy a commercial one.
  4. Vinegar is also a natural, effective way to remove wasps. Mix 2 cups (473 ml) of apple cider vinegar, 2 cups (400 g) of sugar, and 1 cup (236 ml) of water to create a DIY wasp repellent. Place the mixture near the wasps to attract and kill them. [4]
  5. If a stray wasp got in your house, the simplest, most direct way to kill it is to smack it with a flyswatter. Wait until it lands, then swat it when it’s motionless, and continue to do so until it’s dead. Only use a swatter if you are trying to get rid of one wasp or a small group in a concentrated area. [5]
    • Don’t attempt to swat wasps if you have slow reflexes or haven’t practiced swatting, as you’re likely to get stung when the wasp flies away and tries to defend itself.
    • If you don’t want to kill the wasp, Parker recommends trapping it and releasing it outside: “[Take a] cup and place it over the top of [the wasp] with a piece of paper to slide underneath that cup. Putting [the wasp] outside is a very easy, eco-friendly, and safe thing to do most of the time—unless you're allergic to wasps or bees.” [6]
  6. Turn on a powerful, lightweight vacuum and position it about 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 cm) from the wasps to vacuum them up. Then, vacuum up 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of cornstarch to incapacitate them. While the vacuum is still running, open the vacuum canister, tape the opening of the bag, and then turn the vacuum off. Remove the bag and put it in the freezer overnight before throwing it away. [7]
    • Make sure to use a vacuum that has a removable bag.
    • Vacuum wasps as spring arrives, right when they start to come out of hibernation. They tend to be slow and sluggish at this point, making it easier to catch them and sweep them away.
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Section 2 of 9:

How to Get Rid of Wasps in Your Yard

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  1. One of the easiest and quickest ways to get rid of a wasp infestation is to use a store-bought wasp nest spray . These can be sprayed from up to 20 feet (6 m) away, so using one can reduce your risk of getting stung while handling the wasps. Put on some protective clothing and follow the instructions on the container to properly spray the wasps. Check the area for activity a few days later and repeat the treatment as necessary. [8]
    • To reduce the risk of getting stung, spray the area at night, when the wasps are less active.
    • Do not stand under the nest when you spray the wasps, as they may swarm or attack.
    • Be sure to spray any potential nesting areas (like around your deck, pool, patio, etc.) as well so the wasps don’t come back.
    • If you prefer a natural option, the dish soap and water (or essential oil) solution also works for wasps outdoors. The commercial spray may be more effective, however, and you don’t have to worry about breathing it in as much.
    EXPERT TIP

    Scott McCombe

    Pest Control Specialist
    Scott McCombe is the CEO of Summit Environmental Solutions (SES), a family-owned local pest solutions, animal control, and home insulation company based in Northern Virginia. Founded in 1991, SES has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and has been awarded “Top Rated Professional,” and “Elite Service Award" by HomeAdvisor.
    Scott McCombe
    Pest Control Specialist

    Our Expert Agrees: Wasps may be kept away by the regular, judicious use of pesticides labeled for wasps. Exclusion by foaming, caulking, and screening can also be very helpful indoors.

  2. There are many types of wasp traps available, including bait traps and UV light traps . Follow the instructions provided with your trap to set it up properly. Place the trap in areas where the wasps are most active but away from areas in which people spend a lot of time. Hang them away from your outdoor living spaces and replace them frequently. [9]
    • For example, place bait traps along your property line as far away from patios and protected areas as possible. Attach bait stations to a post or tree trunk near the wasps’ nest.
    • If you don’t think they’ll harm other animals, hang glue traps from clotheslines or on flat surfaces where the wasps like to crawl around. These work best at the early stages of nest development, when the wasp population is small.
    • Or, make your own drinking station bait with water and pyrethroid powder . Place a plant pot into a tray, then fill the tray with water and mix in a powder containing a pyrethroid (like permethrin) to kill the wasps. Put the pot in a sunny area so the wasps start to drink from it. Add fresh water every 1-2 days to attract more wasps and repeat the whole process every 3-5 days.
  3. Wasps don't like the smell of WD-40, which makes it a great repellent. Apply 2 to 3 sprays around areas the wasps frequent, especially crevices or small areas where wasps would likely build a nest. Spray individual wasps until they’re coated and can’t fly away. If the WD-40 doesn’t kill them on its own, swat them. [10]
    • Never spray near candles or a lit grill.
    • Avoid burning the nest after spraying WD-40—this is extremely risky if you cannot control the flame.
  4. Wasps are attracted to some plants more than others, so planting those plants somewhere far away can help keep the wasps away from high-traffic areas. For example, plant flowers and herbs (like fennel, goldenrod, or thistle) in a secluded corner of your yard to keep the wasps away from your home, pool, or garden. [11]
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Section 3 of 9:

How to Get Rid of Wasp Nests

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  1. Put on some protective clothing (like long sleeves, thick pants, and gloves) and spray the nest with a commercial wasp spray. Stand far away from the nest so the wasps don’t fall on or attack you, and spray at night when they’re not as active. Wait 24 hours and check for activity. Repeat the process if necessary. [12]
    • For the best results, apply the insecticide early in the season when the nest is still small.
    • Other solutions like dish soap and water or essential oils and water may also work, but they aren’t as strong as wasp spray. If you do use a natural method, make sure the nest is completely coated.
  2. Once you’re certain the insecticide has taken effect and there is no more activity, don your protective gear again and carefully knock the nest down with a long stick, pole, or broom. Again, do not stand directly underneath. Place the fallen nest in a heavy-duty plastic bag then dispose of it in an outdoor trash can with a tight-fitting lid. [13]
    • If the nest is in a hard-to-reach area or you’re unsure you can safely remove it , call an exterminator instead.
    • When the wasps are alive, you must knock the nest down on a regular basis to discourage the wasps. Expect to knock the nest down several times before the wasps give up and find somewhere else to build.
    • If you have applied insecticide and most of the wasps are dead, saturate it with insecticide spray after knocking it down and then break it apart.
  3. Keep an eye on wasp behavior for 2 to 3 days to find the most frequented nest entrances and exits. Then, at night while the wasps are asleep, pour a pot of boiling water down these passages. Stuff some soil into the holes after you have flooded the hive (unless the wasps begin to ascend from the nest). Always wear protection and be careful—this method can trigger a mass attack. [14]
    • Because this method can be dangerous, it’s probably best to leave it to professional exterminators unless you have experience yourself.
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Section 4 of 9:

When to Call a Professional

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  1. If you're not confident using chemical insecticides or are having trouble getting rid of wasps on your own, professional exterminators might be a safer alternative. If you have a wasp nest in the walls of your home, an exterminator can drill a hole in the window frame, floor, or wall near the nest's location, and then pump insecticides through this hole to reach the nest. [15]
    • Hire a professional exterminator if you are on a limited timeframe—they have access to stronger chemicals, so the wasps might die more quickly.
    • The price you can expect to pay varies depending on the size, location, and accessibility of the nest and infestation. In general, though, the average cost of professional extermination is around $390.
Section 5 of 9:

How to Prevent a Wasp Infestation

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  1. It typically isn’t possible to eliminate wasps entirely, so be on alert for signs of new infestation. Check your wall cavities, sheds, eaves, tree limbs, and garages for new nests every spring. If you spot one, spray it with insecticide and remove the nest shell. [16]
    • To find a wasp nest, Parker says, “What you want to do is look for that classic sign during the warmest part of the day, seeing where the most activity is. That is usually going to be right where the nest is.” [17]
  2. Wasps may enter your home through or build nests in cracks and crevices. Inspect the exterior of your home and seal cracks and holes with silicone caulk . Apply weatherstripping around any gaps in doors and windows, and cover any vents and chimneys with mesh screens. [18]
  3. Wasps are attracted to sweet, sugary substances, so it’s important to seal any potential food sources. Clean up spills and crumbs as soon as possible, and store your food in tightly-sealed containers. Make sure your trash and recycling have sealed lids, as well, and keep your yard clean. [19]
  4. Just like with the herbs and plants themselves, many essential oils are known to deter wasps, like clove , lemongrass , geranium , and peppermint . Mix a few drops of one of these oils with some water and spray the mixture around your home and yard. Reapply the solution every few days to keep the wasps away. [20]
    • Note that Parker doesn’t recommend spraying vinegar to repel wasps outdoors: “Vinegar doesn't have any chemical properties that would allow it to stay on the exterior of a house for very long. So, you'd have to apply it pretty frequently.” [21]
  5. Many plants naturally deter wasps, so consider planting them around your yard or in your garden. These include herbs and flowers like peppermint, thyme, rosemary, clove, sage, eucalyptus, and geranium. [22]
    • Mint plants, in particular, are often recommended to help keep wasps away.
    • Try to avoid flowers that are especially fragrant or bright, as these attract wasps. Avoid foliage like caladium, ferns, hosta, heuchera, and succulents, as well.
  6. Wasps are attracted to and may nest in overgrown shrubs, trees, and other vegetation, so keep your yard as neat as possible. [23] Trim back any limbs that are touching your house and prune your trees and bushes regularly. Just make sure there are no nests currently in the vegetation to avoid getting stung.
  7. Wasps are very territorial, so they’re unlikely to build a nest if one is already nearby. Purchase a decoy nest or make your own by hanging up a brown paper bag. If a real nest already exists, hang the fake within 200 feet (61 m) feet to encourage the wasps to leave. This method is most effective in the spring or summer, when wasps are first starting to appear for the season.
    • Find fake wasp nests online or at your nearest big box store. Paper lanterns can also work.
    • This method may not work late in the summer once wasps have already built their home.
    • Consider hanging up other deterrents as well, like fake birds and animals.
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Section 6 of 9:

Signs of a Wasp Infestation

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  1. It’s normal to encounter a wasp or two when you’re outdoors during the summer, but seeing large numbers at once or seeing them on a regular basis is likely a sign that a nest is nearby. Wasps are more active during the day, so this is when you’re most likely to see them. [24]
    • If you notice a large number of wasps swarming around a particular area, like a tree or bush, stay away from that area until the wasps can be taken care of.
    • Even if you don’t see wasps, pay attention to any buzzing sounds, as this could indicate that there’s an infestation somewhere you can’t see.
    • Wasps also become more aggressive when they feel like their nest is being threatened, so if wasps are attacking more frequently, it probably means their nest is nearby.
  2. Visible wasp nests are another obvious sign of a wasp infestation. The exact size, shape, and location of the nest will vary depending on the type of wasp you’re dealing with, but they’re usually found in sheltered areas, like eaves, porches, attics, and trees. [25]
    • If you’re not sure if a structure is a wasp nest, it’s best to stay away from it to be safe. Look up the kinds of wasps that live in your area to determine what their nests look like.
  3. Many types of wasps build their nests with wood fibers. Look for signs of chewing damage on wooden structures, including fences and furniture. Wasps may also chew on pulp from trees. [26]
    • Be aware that damaged wood can also be a sign of other insects, like termites or ants. Look for other signs of wasp infestation to be sure.
  4. Wasps are carnivorous insects, meaning they feed on other insects. [27] If you notice a lot of dead bees, flies, or other insects in piles around your property, it likely means wasps are hunting in that area and probably live nearby.
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Section 7 of 9:

What attracts wasps?

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  1. Wasps are especially attracted to food and beverages that are sugary or high in protein, which is why they’re frequently found around picnic tables, garbage cans, fruit trees, and pet food. This is why it’s important to clean up spills and keep trash cans sealed. [28]
    • At the end of the summer, wasps are most attracted to sugary drinks and foods. At the beginning and middle of the summer, they are more drawn to meat.
  2. Like many insects, wasps also need water to survive. If you have standing water in your yard, like a pond or bird bath, wasps may be more attracted to the area. Be sure to change the water regularly and fix any leaks in outdoor plumbing to prevent standing water. [29]
  3. Wasps require shelter to build their nests and protect their young, and they’re often attracted to cracks and crevices or shady areas. This includes sheltered areas like eaves, attics, and sheds, as well as tree limbs and overgrown shrubs. If you have any of these spaces in your yard or near your home, wasps are likely to build there. [30]
  4. Wasps also enjoy light and warmth, so they frequently find their way indoors through open windows and gaps. They seek warm and protected nesting sites to overwinter, then emerge in the spring to build new nests. [31]
  5. Wasps are attracted to bright colors, especially white and yellow. If you have brightly colored outdoor furniture or decorations, wasps are likely to be drawn to the area. To keep them away, opt for muted colors in both your decor and your clothing. [32]
  6. In addition to eating other insects, wasps also drink the nectar from flowers. [33] They’re particularly attracted to flowers with a sweet scent and bright petals. If you have flowers, try to plant them away from your house so wasps are less likely to get in.
    • Wasps are also attracted to floral-scented perfumes, so be careful if you wear one outside.
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Section 8 of 9:

Common Types of Wasps

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  1. Yellow jackets are aggressive wasps known for their black and yellow stripes. They’re typically 3/8-5/8 of an inch (9.5-16 mm) long, and their nests can contain hundreds or thousands of wasps. Yellow jackets are more aggressive than other wasps and can sting multiple times if they feel threatened. They’re attracted to sweet foods and are more aggressive in late summer and early fall. [34]
    • Yellow jackets build nests in a variety of locations, including in the ground, in trees, under eaves, and in attics.
  2. Mud daubers are a solitary type of wasp known for building their nests out of mud. They typically have slender black or metallic blue bodies with bright yellow patterns on their thorax and legs. They aren’t as aggressive as other wasps and rarely sting humans. Mud daubers frequently eat spiders. [35]
    • Mud daubers build their nests in protected areas, like eaves, attics, and the sides of buildings.
  3. Hornets are closely related to yellow jackets but are larger and have a more robust body. They often swarm if their nests are disturbed. They rarely sting unless they feel threatened, but their stings can be very painful. [36]
    • Hornets form their nests by chewing wood into pulp. They typically nest in trees, bushes, and other elevated areas.
  4. Paper wasps are usually brown or reddish brown in color and have long, slender bodies with yellow or red markings. They’re usually not aggressive but will defend their nest if they feel threatened. Paper wasps get their name from their nests , which are made from paper-like hexagonal chambers created from chewed wood fiber. [37]
    • Paper wasps are common throughout the United States and typically build their nests in protected areas, such as under eaves, in trees, and on or near buildings.
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Section 9 of 9:

Getting Rid of Wasps FAQs

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  1. There are many ways to deter or kill wasps naturally. Spray wasps and nests with a mixture of dish soap and water or essential oil and water (peppermint is usually the best option). Plant herbs that wasps don’t like (like mint, thyme, or eucalyptus) and keep your home and yard free of crumbs and spills. [38]
  2. Bees and wasps are often confused because of their similar shape and coloring, but there are many differences. Bees are typically rounder and fuzzier, while wasps have slender, smooth bodies. Bees mainly feed on nectar and pollen from flowers, while wasps also feed on other insects. Hornets are a type of wasp. [39]
    • Both bees and wasps can sting, but bees can only sting once before dying, while wasps can sting many times without being harmed. Bee stings are typically less aggressive and painful than wasp stings.
  3. The quickest way to remove wasps is to spray them with a commercial wasp killer. These sprays shoot up to 20 feet (6 m) away and use chemicals to kill the wasps. It’s best to spray nests at night when the wasps are less active. Wear protective clothing so you’re less likely to get stung. [40]
  4. When wasps find a suitable place to build their nest, they emit pheromones so other wasps can find the nest more easily. These pheromones often remain even after the nest has been removed, so wasps will likely build in the same place over and over again. [41]
  5. Wasps can do a lot of damage to a home if the infestation isn’t taken care of. Many wasp species chew wood to construct their nests, so they can damage the wood frame and structure of your home. [42] Their nests are also high in humidity, which could potentially cause mold in wall cavities. Wasps can also be a danger to anyone who lives in the home, especially if they’re allergic to wasp stings.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you keep wasps away?
    Scott McCombe
    Pest Control Specialist
    Scott McCombe is the CEO of Summit Environmental Solutions (SES), a family-owned local pest solutions, animal control, and home insulation company based in Northern Virginia. Founded in 1991, SES has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and has been awarded “Top Rated Professional,” and “Elite Service Award" by HomeAdvisor.
    Scott McCombe
    Pest Control Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Regularly treat areas around your home with pesticides to deter wasps. If you have wasps getting into your home, seal any cracks or gaps where they may be coming in.
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      Tips

      • Remember that wasps respond quickly to light sources, so cover your flashlight with a cloth or use amber or red bulbs.
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      • Always perform treatments at night, as wasps tend to be less active in the dark.
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      • Wait until temperatures cool before treating nests since wasps tend to be less active and less aggressive when they get cold.
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      Warnings

      • If you do not know whether you are allergic to wasp and bee stings, have an allergy test performed by your doctor before attempting to handle wasps directly.
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      • Do not try to get rid of the wasps yourself if you are allergic to wasp or bee venom or if the nest is in a spot that is difficult to access.
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      • Always wear protective gear when trying to get rid of wasps. Cover as much skin as possible, wear thick gloves and, if you can, a hat with a head net attached.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/wasps-and-bees#controlling-scavenging-yellowjackets-1505960
      2. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23081867/
      3. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-wasps-with-vinegar/
      4. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-wasps-with-vinegar/
      5. ↑ https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/content/dam/pubs_ext_vt_edu/ENTO/ENTO-435/ENTO-435.pdf
      6. ↑ Chris Parker. Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control. Expert Interview. 14 May 2024.
      7. ↑ https://www.beyondpesticides.org/assets/media/documents/alternatives/factsheets/Wasp%20Control2.pdf
      8. ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/european-paper-wasp
      9. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      1. ↑ https://www.housedigest.com/1380392/prevent-wasp-pest-nests-wd-40-hack/
      2. ↑ https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/plants-for-pollinators
      3. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      4. ↑ https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/paper-wasps-yellowjackets-and-other-stinging-wasps.html#avoidance-and-control
      5. ↑ https://stoppestinfo.com/246-how-to-get-rid-of-wasp-nest.html
      6. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef620
      7. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef620
      8. ↑ Chris Parker. Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control. Expert Interview. 15 March 2023.
      9. ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/european-paper-wasp
      10. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      11. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23081867/
      12. ↑ Chris Parker. Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control. Expert Interview. 15 March 2023.
      13. ↑ https://plantura.garden/uk/insects/wasps/wasp-repellent-plants
      14. ↑ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/getting_rid_of_wasps_nests
      15. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef620
      16. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef620
      17. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/paper-wasps.html
      18. ↑ https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/what-do-wasps-do.html
      19. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      20. ↑ https://sutter-yubamvcd.org/public-information/wasps-and-yellowjackets/
      21. ↑ https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef620
      22. ↑ https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2061/2014/03/Hornets-and-Yellowjackets.pdf
      23. ↑ https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/paper-wasps-yellowjackets-and-other-stinging-wasps.html#avoidance-and-control
      24. ↑ https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2061/2014/03/Hornets-and-Yellowjackets.pdf
      25. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      26. ↑ https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/publications/E-253/E-253.html
      27. ↑ https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2061/2014/03/Hornets-and-Yellowjackets.pdf
      28. ↑ https://cals.cornell.edu/new-york-state-integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/bees-and-wasps/identifying-bees-and-wasps/paper-wasps
      29. ↑ https://plantura.garden/uk/insects/wasps/wasp-repellent-plants
      30. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/yellow-jackets.html
      31. ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/european-paper-wasp
      32. ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0083672910830195
      33. ↑ https://www.clemson.edu/extension/beekeepers/fact-sheets-publications/paper-wasps.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To get rid of wasps in your home or around your house, start by physically removing them. If there’s a wasp within a few inches of you, try using a flyswatter to smack and kill it. You can also use a vacuum to suck up slow-moving wasps that are crawling on the ground, or brush them away with a broom. For wasps that have built nests, consider placing bait traps, glue traps, or drinking traps outside to kill them. If the wasps won’t go away, consider using insecticides or hiring an exterminator to get rid of them. If you want to learn how to take down a wasp nest from an eave or tree, keep reading the article!

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