Effective Water Bug Control: Safe & Natural Methods

Water bugs live on the surface of almost all still water sources and, generally speaking, are harmless enough.

A few do bite humans, and if you have a pond or swimming pool in your garden or live near a lake you probably need to take precautions.

Outside the home: Biological pesticide

• Bt-israelensis is used in "Mosquito Dunks" to kill off larvae before they can grow into breeding adults, without causing harm to people or the environment. A single "dunk" once a month will treat 100 square meters of water.

In the pool: Dish detergent

• Dish detergent is toxic to bugs but not humans, so it is an effective technique to keep your pool bug-free. Sprinkle a little in at night, then turn the underwater lights on if you have them. The bugs will be attracted to the light and won't survive long. Skimming the surface afterward will get rid of the bodies.

Trying to get in: Window screens

• Fixing a screen to your windows will not stop everything getting through, but certainly it will make entry harder for any would-be intruders -- and larger bugs will find it impossible. These are not particularly expensive and they allow ventilation with peace of mind.

Inside the home: Insecticide

• Bugs of many varieties tend to congregate in dark places, and water bugs are no different. If they manage to get into your home, use insecticide in dark corners and deal with the bodies later. Because these products are poisonous, it's not a good idea if you have children or pets. Get rid of the insect carcasses.