Homeowners may be very familiar with boxelder bugs if they own boxelder trees. They lay eggs and give off a distinctive stench while threatening to enter the home in the winter. If you see them you have options. First is to blast them with water. They can be broken up with a garden hose and will discourage growth of a swarm. Laying down diatomaceous earth is a deterrent when sprinkled around the perimeter of the home. Chemical insecticide sprayed around the home will kill boxelder bugs before they come inside for winter. Finally, the ultimate solution is to replace seed-bearing boxelder trees. Inside, you need to vacuum, trap, and spray bugs with soap and water to kill them.
Read more: How To: Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs