Wasps and hornets can be a common sight during the warmer months, but it's important to remember that they can pose a serious threat to you and your home. These stinging insects can cause painful stings and allergic reactions and damage your property.

If you notice an unusually high number of wasps or hornets around your home, it's crucial to take action and have them removed as soon as possible. If you think you have an infestation, we are here to help you learn how to get rid of wasps and hornets safely.

wasp on plant

Identifying wasps and hornets

If you're wondering how to get rid of wasps and hornets, understanding the distinctions between them is the first step. It is essential to identify the specific species of wasps and hornets for safety reasons, as different species have different levels of aggressiveness. For example, yellow jackets are known for their hostile behavior and can sting multiple times, while hornets are less aggressive but have more potent venom. Although they may look similar at first glance, some key characteristics set them apart.

TMX wasp on glass

Wasps are generally smaller than hornets, with narrower waists, pointed lower abdomens, and longer legs. Some common wasps you may encounter include yellow jackets, paper wasps, and mud daubers.

TMX hornet on nest

Hornets, however, are larger, with rounder abdomens, wider waists, and larger legs. Some common hornet species include bald‐faced hornets and European hornets.

Put safety first

When it comes to removing wasps or hornets, it's important to prioritize your safety above all else. Wasps and hornets can become aggressive if they feel threatened, so it's best to avoid disturbing the nest as much as possible. Early morning is the best time to perform any nest removal, as wasps and hornets are much more sluggish in the cooler morning temperatures.

Move slowly and calmly to avoid agitating the stinging insects if you must be near the nest. One of the most important things you can do is to wear protective gear like long‐sleeved shirts, pants, gloves, and closed‐toe shoes. It's recommended to use rubber bands or duct tape to secure sleeves and pant legs. It's important to remember that even though you can remove stinging pest nests on your own, hiring a professional is the safest option.

Call in the professional exterminators

Wasps and hornets can be very aggressive when they feel their nest is under attack, so for your personal safety, it's crucial to have a pest professional handle the stinging pest removal. Terminix technicians understand how to get rid of wasps and hornets safely. Our technicians have the proper equipment and tools and know how to get rid of wasps and hornets efficiently.

Your technician will begin by examining the outside of your home to identify the species of stinging insect and where the problem pest is emanating from. They will then create a customized plan to address the issue based on your property's requirements. Depending on the infestation's size and type, the treatment plan may use a combination of aerosol insecticide, repellent liquid residual, or residual dust. After applying the treatment, the technician will safely dispose of the nest.

Natural and DIY methods to get rid of stinging pests

While there are many DIY methods to eliminate wasps and hornets, it's important to remember that they can be dangerous and should be handled with care. Here are some common DIY methods used to get rid of wasps and hornets from your property.

  • Remove Attractants: To get rid of hornets or wasps, removing anything that may attract them to your home is essential. Clean your outdoor area, seal garbage cans and compost piles, and remove sweet‐smelling flowers or plants.
  • Traps: You can use traps to lure wasps or hornets into and trap and kill them. Different traps, such as sticky, bait, and water traps, are available. Be sure to keep lures and traps far away from pets and kids and any exterior areas like decks, patios, or porches.
  • Sprays: Insecticide sprays can also be effective in getting rid of these stinging pests. These sprays can kill wasps on contact and be applied directly to the nest.

It is not recommended to use DIY methods for removing wasps or hornets as they can be dangerous and only provide temporary solutions. If their nest is knocked down without using any insecticide repellent, wasps will start rebuilding it immediately. At Terminix, our trained technicians have the knowledge and experience to get rid of wasps and hornets safely and effectively, giving you peace of mind.

Removing wasps and hornet nests

Dealing with a wasp or hornet nest can be dangerous, so we recommend leaving removal to the professionals who know how to get rid of wasps or hornets' nests safely. Here are the steps our technicians will follow if you have a wasp or hornet infestation:

  • Inspection: Our technicians will first put on protective gear and carefully inspect the wasp or hornet's nest to identify the type of nest to determine the appropriate treatment plan.
  • Treat the nest: Depending on the type of nest, your technician may use a range of treatment options, including aerosol insecticides, repellent liquid residual, or residual dust.
  • Remove the nest: After the nest has been treated, your technician will ensure that the nest is removed and placed into a plastic trash bag.
wasp nest in tree

Preventing future nests

Understanding how to get rid of wasps and hornets also involves adopting preventive measures to keep them from returning. Make your property less inviting for these stinging insects with these tips:

  1. Remove any potential food sources, such as open garbage cans or uncovered food.
  2. Seal any cracks and holes in your walls, roof, and windows to prevent these insects from entering your home.
  3. Keep your outdoor living area clean and tidy, and avoid leaving any standing water.
  4. Use natural or commercial insect repellents, such as peppermint oil or citronella candles, to keep wasps and hornets away.
  5. If you spot a nest, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as it can be dangerous. Instead, call a professional exterminator to handle the job safely.
  6. Regular inspections and treatments by a professional pest control company like Terminix can help protect your home from these unwanted pests.

It's important to remember that it's best to leave the removal of stinging pests to the experts who understand how to get rid of wasps and hornets effectively. If you need help dealing with these pesky insects, see pricing for stinging pest control today!