Mud-Dauber Nests? Here’s How to Remove Them — Safely and Effectively

David Moore
Dec 7, 2025
3 min read

If you’ve ever walked outside and noticed a small clump of dried mud stuck to your stucco, siding, or under your porch ceiling, chances are you’ve found a mud-dauber nest. These little structures show up often around homes in Bradenton, Palmetto, Parrish, Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding Florida areas—especially during warm, humid months.

The good news? Mud daubers are solitary wasps, not aggressive swarmers. They rarely sting unless handled directly, but their nests can leave stains, damage paint, and attract even more pests if left untouched.

As exterior-cleaning professionals who encounter mud-dauber nests during house washes, roof cleans, and lanai cleanings, here’s our guide on how to safely remove them—and when to call a pro.

Mud Dauber Nest top right corner of Window before and after Mud Dauber Nest Cleaning Bradenton — Mud Dauber Nest Removal

What Exactly Is a Mud-Dauber Wasp?

Mud daubers are slender, long-legged wasps that build their nests out of—you guessed it—mud. They gather wet soil, pack it into tubes or clumps, and attach the nests to:

Soffits and fascia
Stucco walls
Screen enclosures
Porch ceilings
Garage walls
Patio corners
Fence posts

They’re actually beneficial insects because they hunt spiders. But while that’s great for pest control, their dried mud nests can be an eyesore and leave behind residue that stains your home’s exterior over time.

Mud-Dauber Wasp and it's Mud-Dauber Nest — Mud Dauber Wasp and Nest

How to Tell if the Nest Is Active or Abandoned

Before you remove anything, determine whether wasps are currently using the nest.

Signs an Active Nest May Be Present:

Fresh, wet-looking mud
No visible exit holes
Wasps entering or leaving during daylight hours
Smooth, sealed-off compartment openings

Signs the Nest Is Abandoned:

Small round exit holes
Crumbling edges
No activity in the morning or late afternoon

If a nest looks active and you’re uncomfortable working around wasps (especially if allergic), skip the DIY and call a pest control provider first.

How to Safely Remove a Mud-Dauber Nest (DIY Method)

Only attempt removal if the nest is small, easy to reach, and shows no signs of live wasps.

Spraying a degreaser to soften the Mud Dauber Nest before using a brush to scrub it off — Using a Degreaser to soften the Mud Dauber Nest

What You’ll Need:

Gloves and eye protection
A putty knife or plastic scraper
Soft-bristle brush
Garden hose
Mild soap or exterior cleaning solution

Step-by-Step Removal:

1. Choose the Right Time

Evening is usually best. Wasps are less active or may have already exited abandoned nests.

2. Gently Scrape the Nest

Use a putty knife or scraper and work slowly. Stucco can be fragile, and paint can chip if too much force is applied.

3. Soften Any Residue

Spray the area lightly with water.

A damp nest base softens and comes off cleaner.

4. Clean the Surface

Use a soft brush and soapy water to remove:

Mud staining
Remaining residue
Dirt and dust trapped behind the nest

5. Rinse Thoroughly

A low-pressure rinse—not a high-pressure blast—protects the wall and prevents streaking.

Front Entrance Ceiling of a house with two Mud Dauber Nests Before and After results of removing the mud dauber nests — Before and After Mud Dauber Nest Removal in Bradenton

When DIY Removal Can Damage Your Home

Not every surface responds the same. We’ve seen homeowners accidentally:

Scratch paint with metal tools
Blast stucco with too much pressure
Damage screen-enclosure frames
Create bright “clean spots” from aggressive pressure washing
Spread residue instead of removing it

If the nest is high up, stuck to delicate surfaces, or you’re dealing with multiple nests, calling a professional is the safest option.

How Sunshine AquaWash Handles Mud-Dauber Nests

During our house washing, lanai cleaning, pool cage cleaning, or roof soft washing services, we commonly remove mud-dauber nests as part of our exterior detailing. Our process includes: