Integrated management of boxelder bugs includes inspection, habitat modification, exclusion, removal, and possible insecticide applications. 

The exterior of your home should be inspected in the fall of the year to determine probable boxelder bug entry points.  In October look for congregations of red marked insects in vertical surfaces that are warmed by the sun, principally on the south and west sides.  They enter dwellings through cracks around windows and doors, soffits and vents.  These areas can be caulked or otherwise sealed to cut down on the number of boxelder bugs finding their way into the home.  Doors and windows should be tight fitting.  Replacing weather striping around doors and windows will not only keep bugs out, but this will also help keep warmth in and the cold out during the heating season.  Make-up air vents should be screened during the fall when the bugs are congregating. Piles of boards, rocks, leaves and other debris located close to the house should be removed to eliminate possible hiding places that attract boxelder bugs. 

Large congregations of boxelder bugs found on outside walls in the fall can be sprayed with soapy water or residual insecticides that are labeled for this use to kill the beetles before they have a chance to enter.  Insecticides can also be applied to cracks around windows, doors and other possible entry points to act as a barrier to help keep bugs out. 

There is very little that can be done once the bugs are inside the walls.  Box elder bugs found inside during the winter and spring can be swept up and discarded outside or they can be vacuumed.  Indoor aerosol insecticides can be used to first kill the bugs before they are swept up or vacuumed but in most cases this is not necessary.  Total release bug “bombs” are not recommended for this use.  Use something that can be applied in short bursts directly on the beetles.  Even aggressive and costly professionally applied insecticide treatments will not eliminate these bugs as it is nearly impossible to treat every hidden area that may be harboring them.  Be sure to read and follow all instructions and safety precautions found on the label before using any pesticide.