10 smells pest control pros say attract bugs

Bugs don’t just show up out of nowhere — they’re drawn in by smells that signal food, shelter, or even a place to breed. Pest control pros say many of the odors in and around your house act like a neon “welcome” sign for insects. If you know what attracts them, you can cut off the problem before it starts.

Rotting Fruit

Overripe bananas or apples on the counter are magnets for fruit flies and gnats. As soon as the fruit begins to ferment, it releases sugars and alcohol compounds bugs zero in on. Pest control experts say keeping produce in the fridge once it softens is the fastest way to stop an invasion.

Dirty Trash Cans

Food scraps, spills, and even damp paper towels give off a strong odor that pests detect from far away. Ants, roaches, and flies all use trash smells to find their way indoors. Cleaning trash cans regularly with vinegar or bleach solution keeps those odors from building up.

Standing Water

Mosquitoes are especially drawn to water that’s been sitting. Even small puddles in plant saucers or birdbaths create a breeding ground. Experts say emptying and scrubbing these spots at least once a week can cut down on mosquito populations around your home.

Greasy Kitchen Drains

Bits of food and grease trapped in sink drains release a sour smell that attracts flies and roaches. Pros recommend pouring boiling water or a baking soda and vinegar mix down the drain to break up buildup before pests start hanging around.

Pet Food

Kibble left in open bowls smells like a feast to ants and roaches. Even sealed bags can give off an odor that attracts pests if they’re stored in warm spots. Pest control companies suggest airtight containers and cleaning up spills quickly to avoid infestations.

Dirty Dishes

A sink full of plates covered in food residue is one of the top bug magnets. Left overnight, the smell is strong enough to attract ants and roaches. Washing dishes promptly or at least rinsing them thoroughly keeps the kitchen from becoming a pest hotspot.

Overripe Houseplants

Houseplants can smell earthy and damp when overwatered or when roots begin to rot. That smell is a beacon for fungus gnats. Letting soil dry out between waterings and checking for proper drainage helps eliminate the conditions pests are looking for.

Sugary Spills

Sticky spills — soda, juice, or even honey — give off long-lasting odors that draw ants and flies instantly. Pros say these smells linger even after a quick wipe, so a thorough cleaning with hot water is key.

Stale Beer or Wine Bottles

Alcohol smells from half-empty bottles or cans pull in fruit flies. They lay eggs inside bottles if left out too long. Rinsing containers before tossing them is a simple fix that keeps pests from multiplying near recycling bins.

Damp Laundry

Sweaty clothes piled up in a basket release odors that certain pests, especially silverfish, love. Moisture plus body oils create the perfect draw. Experts say running laundry regularly and keeping hampers dry makes your space less inviting.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.