To kill a hornet, you have several effective methods, both chemical and non- chemical:
Chemical Methods
- Wasp/Hornet Spray: Use a wasp-killing spray from a grocery or hardware store. Spray the nest or the hornet directly, preferably at night or dawn when hornets are less active. Spray from a distance with a jet nozzle to avoid stings. Wait 24 hours and repeat if necessary
- Soap Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray the hornet or the nest directly. The soap clogs their breathing spiracles and suffocates them within minutes
- Hair Spray or Windex: Hair spray can immobilize hornets by coating their wings, making them easy to kill. Windex is less toxic and can slow or kill some hornets inside the home
- Rubbing Alcohol: Applying rubbing alcohol directly on a hornet can kill it quickly by causing it to shrivel up
Non-Chemical Methods
- Physical Hit: If you are not afraid, you can kill a hornet with a shoe, fly swatter, or rolled-up newspaper when it is accessible. Ensure it is dead before disposing of it
- Traps: Set up traps baited with protein (like bacon) or sugar water with dish soap to attract and drown hornets. This helps reduce their numbers but does not eliminate the nest
- Open Windows/Doors: If you want to avoid killing, open windows and doors to encourage the hornet to leave on its own
Safety Precautions
- Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection when approaching nests
- Approach nests at night or dawn to reduce the risk of stings
- If allergic or unsure, contact a professional exterminator for nest removal
In summary, the quickest way to kill a hornet is to spray it with a wasp killer or a soapy water solution, or physically hit it if you feel safe doing so. For nests, use insecticide sprays at night or traps to reduce numbers, always prioritizing safety
