How to remove a wasp nest
Knowing how to remove a wasp nest isn’t a skill we ever hope we’ll need. However, there are times we might have to step up and protect ourselves and our family from wasps and their nasty stings. Although this guide is going to give you the low-down on how to remove a wasp nest safely, we highly recommend hiring a professional to come and remove your wasp nest for you.
Knowing how to remove a wasp nest isn’t a skill we ever hope we’ll need. However, there are times we might have to step up and protect ourselves and our family from wasps and their nasty stings.
Although this guide is going to give you the low-down on how to remove a wasp nest safely, we highly recommend hiring a professional to come and remove your wasp nest for you. Stings are painful and cause allergic reactions in some people, and wasps will not hesitate to attack anyone who disturbs their home.
When to remove a wasp nest
Do regular spot checks around your home for obvious signs of a wasp nest. They’re often found in shrubs, sheds, trees, under overhangs, and on decking or porches.
The most common wasps in the UK are yellow jackets and hornets. Both nests are about the size of a basketball and resemble paper-like structures; however, hornet hives are built from hexagonal combs with a single entrance.
If the nest is active and you’re noticing a lot of activity in or around your home, it’s time to remove the hive. Although rare, some nests can reach dizzying numbers of 20k and grow to the size of a car!
How to prevent wasps from building a nest
If you’ve ever accidentally stumbled upon a wasp hive before, you’ll know how aggressive and territorial the workers are defending it. That’s why having these pests move near or onto your property isn’t a sign to roll out the welcome mat.
As always, prevention is better than cure. So, try implementing the following steps to avoid an infestation altogether.
- Hang a fake nest or brown paper bag. They act as deterrents to wasps who want to find their own hang-out spots.
- Wasps like building their nests over unsealed vents, cracks, doorframes and windows, so be sure to seal off these entry points to avoid an infestation.
- Remove empty nests and clean the area before a Queen attempts to reclaim her throne.
How to remove a wasp nest
If you still want to remove a nest yourself, then your best bet is to do it as early in the year as possible so the colony is smaller and the wasps are less aggressive. Also, consider removing the hive at night when there’s less hive activity.
Tools you’ll need for the job
Before you get started, equip yourself with the following items:
- Protective gear that covers your entire body. Leave nothing exposed!
- A wasp killing pesticide spray
- Insecticidal dust
- A spray bottle filled with washing-up liquid and water
- A bin bag
- Courage
How to remove a wasp nest from a loft
Plan a robust exit strategy if you’re going to try and remove a wasp nest from the eaves of your loft. As soon as you spray the pesticide spray, the wasps are going to become stressed and angry. Make a quick exit and return after a few hours to remove the remains.
If your nest is on the outside of your house, then seriously consider hiring a professional for both safety and efficiency reasons.
How to remove a wasp nest from the roof
When removing an aerial nest, use a bottle filled with washing up liquid and water. Leave for an hour before returning and removing the nest. Consider placing a bin bag over the structure to prise it off, then seal immediately.
Some jobs will require you to use a step ladder. Please note this is highly dangerous when removing a nest yourself as wasps may still startle you and cause you to trip. If the hive isn’t within easy reach, call a professional.
How to remove a wasp nest from a bush
Don your protective equipment and use your pesticide spray to remove a wasp nest from a bush. Let the spray do its job and return with a bin bag to remove the hive once the infestation is managed.
Do not use any flammable material or boiling water. These are ineffective, dangerous, and polluting.
How to remove an underground wasp nest
For wasp nests built underground, use insecticidal dust to manage the infestation. Use the amount suggested on the brand instructions and leave it to do its job. As the nest is underground, all you can do is monitor the situation and repeat the process as necessary. Don’t pour boiling water or flammable material down the hole to the hives as this will only harm the environment and do little to control the wasp population.
How to remove a wasp nest from a tree
Depending on where the tree is, consider leaving it alone, especially if it’s far enough away from your house. Contrary to popular belief, wasps are useful for keeping aphid populations and other plant-eating pests under control. So, unless you or your loved ones are at particular risk, leave them to go about their business.
FAQs
Can I remove a wasp nest myself?
Although it’s tempting to save money and remove a nest yourself, it’s rarely worth the stress, potential stings and other safety hazards. Instead, hire a trusted and reliable professional to get the job done properly and quickly the first time around.
How do you get rid of a wasp nest without getting stung?
By wearing head to toe protective equipment. Leave no skin on show unless you’re happy risking painful stings by hundreds of angry and vengeful insects.
Is it ok to leave a wasps nest?
Wasps have their part to play in nature’s biodiversity. So, unless the hive is close to your house, you’re particularly at risk or allergic, we suggest leaving them alone.
What kills wasps instantly?
Washing up liquid and water sprayed directly into the hive, pesticides and insecticidal dust are all effective methods for killing wasps within a few minutes.
What happens if you leave a wasp nest?
It grows to capacity over the course of a year before being abandoned. A new Queen might reclaim it the following year, which is why it’s worth removing empty nests when you find them.
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