Welcome to the world of camping…and yes, there are bugs! Even with cute ladybugs, an infestation can be a nuisance in your camper even though they are beneficial to the environment and fun to watch. If you have found an infestation of ladybugs in your camper, don’t worry – we’re here to help. In this post, you will learn how to get rid of them to keep your camper free from these pesky insects.
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Difference between Lady Bugs and Lady Beetles
First, let’s summarize what may or may not be a ladybug or a beetle. Ladybugs and lady beetles are two adorable insects with similar names, but there are a few key differences between the two.
Ladybugs (Coccinellidae) belong to the family of small, rounded beetles and can be found in many different colors, though they’re often red with black spots.
Lady beetles (Family Coccinellidae) look almost identical to the beloved ladybug except for their size – they’re slightly larger. Both species feed on aphids and other pests, which makes them a great natural form of pest control.
The most noticeable difference between ladybugs and lady beetles is their larvae – while both have similar larval stages, only the larvae of ladybugs are predatory, whereas those of lady beetles eat plants; this means that when it comes to pest control, adult ladybugs do all the work!
How to Get Rid of Ladybugs in Camper
Now that you know a little difference between the common beetle insects, as RV owners, you need to know how to get rid of the pesky insects.
White Vinegar
First, fill a spray bottle with equal water and white vinegar. Shake the bottle to combine the two liquids together. Spray this mixture along windowsills, doorframes, and any other small cracks where you have seen ladybugs. This will help repel any bugs entering your camper from outside sources.
Once you have sprayed the solution around, take a cloth or paper towel and wipe away any dead bugs that may still remain on surfaces.
Dish Soap
Start by mixing one tablespoon of dish soap with two cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Before starting the next step, ensure the soap has completely dissolved into the water.
Next, spray the solution around doorways and windowsills where you have seen ladybugs congregating. Also, be sure to spot-spray any areas where you see them crawling on walls or furniture. The combination of dish soap and water disrupts their protective outer shell, which will eventually cause them to suffocate and die within minutes of contact with the solution.
Boric Acid
One effective method involves the use of boric acid, a naturally-occurring compound that has insecticidal properties.
Boric acid is considered safe for humans and pets when used as directed, making it an ideal choice for eliminating ladybugs from your camper or campsite.
To get started, simply sprinkle some powder around the area where the insects have been seen. You’ll also want to pay close attention to doorways, windowsills and small cracks for any signs of infestation and apply the powder there as well. Be sure to reapply every few days until you see results.
Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is an all-natural powder made from fossilized shells of algae. It works by absorbing oils and fats from the exoskeleton of insects, which causes them to dehydrate and die after direct contact. In addition to killing ladybugs, Diatomaceous earth can also be used for pest control for other insects such as bedbugs and fleas.
To use diatomaceous earth against ladybugs, simply sprinkle it around areas where they’re known to congregate, such as windows or door frames.
Citronella
Citronella has been used for centuries as a natural insect repellent and is just as effective at getting rid of ladybugs.
To use citronella against ladybugs, simply mix equal parts water and citronella oil in a spray bottle, shake it up, and spray around your camper or the area where you see the most bugs. The strong scent will repel the bugs and keep them away from your RV.
You can also light a citronella candle for an overall repellent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the great outdoors can be buggy. And even though they are cute, getting an infestation in your camper is no fun. You have several product options that are natural and safe for you and your family. Simple products such as Dish soap and Citronella will work. Along with other readily available products such as diatomaceous earth and boric acid. Also, patch any holes or gaps in your windows and doors to prevent future ladybug infestations.
Tony is an avid camper and RV traveler. He fell in love with camping on his first RV trip with his wife over 25 years ago. Tony loves sharing lessons learned and tips about RV maintenance and safe traveling.