Keep Wasps Away: 10 Proven Tips to Prevent Wasp Nests (Home & Porch)

1. Seal Up Cracks and Entry Points

Wasps love to slip into small gaps in siding, eaves, or under roof shingles to start nests in wall voids or attics. Do a yearly inspection (late winter or early spring ideal) of your home's exterior for cracks or holes.

Use caulk, foam, or fine mesh to seal these openings. Even a 1/4-inch gap can be enough for a queen wasp to get in. Pay attention to areas that previously had wasp activity – they might try again there if not sealed.

2. Remove Old Nests (During Winter)

If you see old paper wasp nests under eaves or hornet nests in trees from last year, take them down in the off-season (late fall or winter when inactive).

Use a long pole or hose to knock down small nests, or hire a pro for large hornet nests. Dispose of the nest. This also makes it easier to spot new attempts early.

3. Keep Food and Trash Covered

Food attracts wasps big time, especially sugary drinks and meats. Outdoors, keep food covered until you're actively eating. Clean up spills and fallen fruit from fruit trees promptly.

4. Limit Strong Fragrances in Wasp Season

Wasps are attracted to sweet smells. Be mindful with fragrant flowers near seating areas (wasps love flower nectar too) and perfumes or scented lotions when outdoors – they might come investigate you.

5. Install Screens on Windows, Vents, and Attic Openings

Ensure all vents are screened: attic vents, soffit vents, even chimney flues have screens or caps. This stops queens from wandering in and nesting.

6. Hang Fake Wasp Nests

Wasps are territorial. Many homeowners swear by fake wasp nests (paper lantern lookalikes) hung under eaves or in patios to discourage paper wasps and hornets.

Placement: Put them in areas like porch ceilings, eaves of sheds, etc. (Note: they mainly deter paper wasps; yellowjackets in ground may not be as deterred by this.)

7. Use Natural Wasp Repellents (Peppermint Oil & Plants)

Peppermint oil is a known wasp repellent. You can make a simple spray: mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and a bit of dish soap, and spray it around eaves, porch railings, and other areas wasps might nest.

8. Keep Outdoor Dining Areas Clean

When you're having a cookout, have a plan to minimize wasps:

9. Treat and Cover Wooden Structures

Some wasps (paper wasps, hornets) chew wood to make nests. If you have untreated wood surfaces (old fence, deck railing, pergolas), consider painting or sealing them.

10. Regularly Check Favorite Wasp Hangouts

Make it a habit in spring and summer to scout your property weekly for signs of new nests.

By being vigilant, you essentially nip problems in the bud. It's much simpler to deter a queen starting out than a whole colony later.

Q: Do fake wasp nests really work?

A: They can help with some species like paper wasps. Many people report fewer wasps on their porch after hanging fake nests. However, they're not 100% foolproof – some wasps may still build nearby, especially if they find a very ideal spot. But for the low cost, it's a worthwhile try as part of a broader strategy.

Q: What smell do wasps hate?

A: Peppermint is often cited as a smell wasps dislike. In addition, citronella, clove, geranium, and eucalyptus are known to repel many insects including wasps. Using these in sprays or planting these herbs can help deter them. Just remember, rain and time can dissipate scents, so you need to reapply.

Q: Will wasps return to the same spot each year?

A: Not to the exact same nest, since old nests aren't reused. But if your home was attractive one year, new queens might nest in a similar spot (like another soffit on your house). They often return to areas that have good shelter. That's why it's important to permanently fix whatever allowed the first nest (seal holes, etc.), and use deterrents each new season.

Q: Are there plants that keep wasps away?

A: Some plants are reputed to repel wasps – for example, mint, wormwood, lemongrass, and marigolds. While none is a guarantee, planting these around patios can help a little. Plus, lacking sweeter flowers near your seating is good. Just be cautious: some plants (like hummingbird-friendly ones) actually attract wasps for nectar, so choose accordingly.

Q: Does decoy food lure wasps away effectively?

A: In some cases, yes. Setting up a dish of something sweet or smelly meat far from your gathering spot might draw wasps there instead of to your table. However, you might then have a cluster of wasps at the decoy, which could be risky if someone goes near that area. It's a short-term trick (like during a single picnic). It's better to eliminate nests and use traps for long-term relief.