Every single year, without fail, wasps show up to ruin picnics, outdoor parties, and any other summertime festivities. Even though they’re small, these pesky insects can pack a powerful sting that leaves you feeling it long after the initial pain has dissipated.
In an effort to avoid being stung and ruining your fun in the sun, you’ve likely heard a variety of methods for getting rid of wasps. But can something as simple as a brown paper bag really get the job done?
Does a Brown Paper Bag Get Rid of Wasps?
Among the different methods for getting rid of wasps, using a brown paper bag is one of the most popular. The idea behind this method is to mimic a wasp nest. Wasps are very territorial creatures and will attack anything that they perceive as a threat to their nests.
Scientifically speaking, there are no studies that have been done to test the efficacy of using a brown paper bag to get rid of wasps. However, there are plenty of anecdotal reports from people who swear by this method.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, it doesn’t hurt to give it a try. The worst-case scenario is that it doesn’t work and you’re back to square one.
How to Use a Brown Paper Bag to Get Rid of Wasps
If you decide to give this method a try, there are a few things that you’ll need:
- A brown paper bag
- A pair of scissors
- Some tape
- Old newspapers
Stuff the paper bag with crumpled up newspaper until it’s about three-quarters full. Then, use the scissors to make a few small holes in the bag.
Next, take the tape and use it to secure the top of the bag shut. Make sure that the holes that you cut are still open.
Now, all you have to do is find a place to put your “nest.” Wasps are attracted to areas that are dark and moist, so a good place to put your makeshift nest near trees or bushes. Ideally, place it in an area where you don’t want wasps to be.
Brown Paper Bag Alternatives to Deter Wasps
Keeping wasps away from your property instead of killing them is always the best solution. However, there are a few brown paper bag alternatives that you can try if you’re looking for a more creative solution.
Use Herbs
Wasps don’t like the smell of certain herbs and spices, so placing these around your property can help to deter them. You can plant rosemary, oregano, basil, or mint in your garden. Or, you can put a few sprigs of these herbs in a vase and place them around your outdoor living space.
If you don’t have any of these herbs in your garden, you can always get a bottle of essential oils and use them instead. Make a spray or place cotton balls with EO drops around your property.
Use Citrus Peels
The scent of citrus is also known to repel wasps. You can use lemon, lime, or orange peels to deter wasps from your property. For best results, place the peels in a sunny spot. The heat from the sun will help to release the citrus scent into the air.
Vinegar and Water Spray
Among the different methods, this one seemed to work the best. The acidic scent of vinegar has been proven time and time again to be a natural wasp deterrent. To make your own vinegar and water spray, simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Then, spritz it around your property as needed.
What to Do When Wasps Start Nesting in Your Property
If you have a wasp problem that’s getting out of hand, removing the nest on your own is not recommended. This is a job for a professional who has the proper equipment and experience.
At the first sign of wasps nesting on your property, contact a pest control company. They will be able to identify the type of wasp and recommend the best course of action. In most cases, they will be able to remove the nest without causing any harm to these wasps.
It’s also worth noting to mention that not all wasps are the same. There are over 30,000 species of wasps in the world, and only a handful of them are considered to be pests.
In most cases, wasps are actually beneficial to have around as they help to control other pests like flies and beetles.
Brown Paper Bag Get Rid of Wasps: Final Thoughts
You’ve noticed that we’ve only suggested natural ways to keep them away from your property, and not how to kill them. That’s because we believe that the best solution is always the one that’s the most humane.
Wasps are starting to become endangered, so we must do our part to protect them.
Brown bags, herbal sprays, and maybe some citronella candles are all great ways to keep wasps away from your property. But, if you have a serious problem, remember that it’s always best to call a professional.
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