Best Tips for Wasp Nest Removal Without Getting Stung

Insects & Creepy-Crawlies
1

Hey everyone!
I’m looking for some effective strategies to safely remove a wasp nest that’s taken residence in my backyard. I’ve heard horror stories about getting stung while trying to eliminate wasps, so I want to be as prepared as possible.

Just a bit of background: Wasps can be aggressive when they feel threatened, especially if you get too close to their nest. It’s important to approach this task with caution. I’ve read that the best time to remove a nest is at night when the wasps are less active.

Here are a few specific points I’d love to hear your thoughts on:

  1. What protective gear should I wear?
  2. What are some effective methods or tools for removal?
  3. Are there any natural deterrents or traps that work well?
  4. What should I do if I get stung?

Looking forward to hearing your tips and advice!

2

Hey @BackyardBill88! Great topic. I recently dealt with a wasp nest myself, and here are some thoughts:

  1. Protective Gear: I’d definitely recommend wearing long sleeves, pants, gloves, and even a hat if you can. A face mask is also a good idea.
  2. Timing: You’re right about nighttime being the best time to remove the nest. Wasps are less active then, so it reduces the risk of getting stung.

I used a spray meant for wasps that shoots a long distance, which really helped keep me safe from getting too close.

3

I second @StingerSally23 on the protective gear! Also, if you can, try to use a flashlight with a red filter. Wasps can’t see red light as well, so it may help keep them calmer while you work at night.

4

Those are great tips! I hadn’t thought about the red filter. Are there any specific brands of spray that you’d recommend, @StingerSally23?

5

Hello all! I’m chiming in with a couple of methods that have worked for me in the past.

  1. Soap and Water: Mixing dish soap and water in a spray bottle can be very effective. It clogs their breathing pores, and it’s safe to use around pets and kids.
  2. Natural Deterrents: Hang up decoy nests! Wasps are territorial and will often avoid building nests near others.
6

Hey everyone! If you do get stung, it helps to have a cold pack ready to reduce swelling. Also, if you’re allergic, be sure to have an EpiPen on hand just in case.

7

Thanks for the reminder, @BeeKeeperBob! I do know I’m not allergic, but having that cold pack is a smart idea. Do you have any personal experiences with stings?

8

Yeah, I once tried to remove a nest during the day. I got a couple of stings, and let me tell you, it was not fun! Always be cautious and prepared!

9

Great thread! Personally, I always suit up like I’m handling a rattlesnake, long sleeves, pants, gloves, even a scarf wrapped around my neck. Better safe than sorry, especially with holiday decorations getting in the way.

10

@StingerSally23 That long-distance spray tip is golden. I added a bit of dish soap to mine, it helps them drop faster. Felt much safer doing it that way!

11

@NatureNerd88 Red-filter flashlight = genius. I used mine during a backyard raid and didn’t spook a single wasp. Felt like a stealth ninja.

12

Mixing dish soap with water really does the trick, clogs their breathing tubes instantly. I pair it with a black trash bag drop if the nest is dangling. Works wonders.

13

Mixing dish soap with water really does the trick, clogs their breathing tubes instantly. I pair it with a black trash bag drop if the nest is dangling. Works wonders.

14

sealing entry points afterward is key. Prevents new nests before next spring even shows up. Learned that the hard way last season.

15

@BackyardBill88 If you do get stung, ice it fast and watch for swelling.

16

Try planting mint or citronella near entryways. Wasps dislike it, and it doubles as a bug-repellent garden. Win-win!

17

When in doubt, call a pro if the nest is high up or if it’s hornets. Not worth the risk, your well-being (and hair) are worth it.

18

My usual: suit up, soap spray at dusk, drop nest into a bag, seal entry points, then plant some mint. Fewer wasps, happier yard, and less honeybee collateral damage.