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Life would be much easier if we could just ask insects to “bug off.” Since that's not the case, it's time to get rid of these pests once and for all.
In all likelihood, you have tried multiple options before but eventually found a roach creeping back into the kitchen. Reclaiming your home is no mean feat, but it's possible if you're armed with a powerful exterminator.
We know how frustrating it can be to call a pest control service. That's why, to make things easier on your end, we researched and found the 10 best bug killers for your home.
Without further ado, let's begin.
Best Bug Killer for Your Home
Whether you're dealing with mosquitoes, flies, or other unwanted pests, our selection includes top-rated bug killers that have proven effective in tackling these nuisances. Say goodbye to bothersome bugs and enjoy a bug-free environment. So, without further ado, here's the list of the 10 best bug killers that will help you eliminate those unwanted intruders once and for all.
The Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier is a high-performing product that deals with pesky ants, spiders, and roaches in no time. It's not just the rainy season that brings insects to your home, but several other things contribute to the infestation. Regardless, you should be prepared with the right solution.
Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier kills and...
KILL LISTED INSECTS FAST: Kills all common household bugs...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, the Ortho Home Defense Max is a reliable, fast-action formula that can eliminate fleas and ticks. This powerful product can also get rid of other creepers, including millipedes, centipedes, beetworms, scorpions, etc.
Once you thoroughly apply the formula, it will keep your home safe from an insect invasion for as long as a year. After that, you'll have to reapply to continue the insect-free streak. It's a cinch to use, thanks to the extended reach wand, allowing you to spray in tight corners and small nooks inside your home.
Also, you don't need to bend while accessing these hard-to-reach areas, which is a lifesaver for people with joint pains. Ideally, you should spray it on your home doors, windows, perimeters, and other non-porous surfaces where you have found insects earlier.
Lastly, it's completely odor-free and does not leave a stain due to its fast-drying property. So, feel free to use it in your kitchen, bathroom, and basements for maximum protection.
What Could've Been Better?
If you have pets or children at home, keep them at a safe distance while applying the spray, and do not allow them anywhere near the treated surface unless dry. It contains harmful chemicals, and you do not want your pets or children to ingest it. However, it's not much of a hassle, since the formula dries up quickly.
Pros
Keeps your home insect-free for 365 days after one application
Extended reach wand enables spraying in tight nooks and corners
Completely odor-free and does not leave a stain on surfaces
Suitable for use in the kitchen, bathroom, and basement
Cons
Contains harmful chemicals; unsafe for pets and children
Type: Indoor Barrier Spray | Volume: 1 Gal | Target Insects: Various indoor insects | Application Method: Spray along baseboards, cracks, and entry points | Active Ingredients: Bifenthrin, Zeta-Cypermethrin
An all-out professional pest control session is an expensive affair and quite a hassle for homeowners, as you may have to vacate your house during the process. If you'd rather save money, time, and effort, we suggest getting the Raid Ant & Roach Barrier Spray. It's highly effective and cheap, so definitely worth a shot.
This high-performance product is designed to prevent the infestation of ants, fleas, flies, gnats, roaches, ticks, silverfish, spiders, scorpions, mosquitoes, and other common bugs. So, if you're looking for a viable, long-term control, the Raid Ant & Roach Barrier will not disappoint.
Other than that, it's suitable for indoor and outdoor use, so make sure to spray over all windows, doors, and floorboards, and around your home's foundation. Therefore, you can rely on it to create a protective perimeter around your home to keep all bugs and creepers from entering.
Ideally, you should apply it on a day when you're not expecting rainfall in the next 24 hours. This will prevent the chemicals in the pesticide from entering or running off into storm drains, drainage ditches, or surface waters. Lastly, it's 100% odorless, so you can apply it inside your home without worrying about repulsive smells.
What Could've Been Better?
This product is highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates and is also known to be harmful to bees. Therefore, it has some significant environmental impact that you cannot ignore. So, if you decide to use this product, be responsible while applying it and try to limit the after-effects to the bare minimum.
Pros
Prevents the infestation of ants, fleas, roaches, mosquitoes, etc
Product is suitable for indoor and outdoor use
100% odorless bug repellent; creates a protective perimeter
Cost-effective and long-term pest control solution
Cons
Highly toxic to fish, aquatic invertebrates, and bees
Type: Indoor Barrier Spray | Volume: 22 oz | Target Insects: Ants, Roaches | Application Method: Spray along baseboards, entry points, and trails | Active Ingredients: Imiprothrin, Cypermethrin, Prallethrin
We seem a little partial towards this particular brand, but a list of the best bug killers is incomplete without the Ortho Home Defense Flying Bug Killer. That said, it's one of the most convenient options on the market with proven capabilities against household insects. Therefore, if you're looking for an economical solution to keep your home free from creepers, get this stat.
Safe and strong essential oil formula (Safe to use around...
Safe to use around kids and pets when used as directed
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, this aerosol 14 Oz Flying Bug Killer is quite handy and easy to use. All you need to do is aim and spray. Thanks to the high-precision nozzle, you can spray at any angle and directly use it on any surface or bug.
If you have a terrible case of mosquitoes, fruit flies, and houseflies, this rapid-action product will effectively deal with the situation and ensure maximum prevention. As for its composition, this Ortho formula harnesses the potential of essential oils known to be proven deterrents against bug invasions.
Apart from that, this non-staining repellent is safe for use around pets and children, so you don't have to worry about accidental ingestion or exposure. Most importantly, it works in both indoor and outdoor setups. Therefore, you can reinforce protection by spraying on the patio and porch after covering the kitchen, basement, and bathroom.
What Could've Been Better?
If the fly situation at your home is really out of control, you may run out of spray very fast. In any case, this is a temporary solution, so grab two or more containers depending on your requirements. Regardless, it's an eco-friendly option that you may use to substitute or supplement chemical pest controls.
Pros
Comes in handy, easy-to-use, 14 Oz containers
Highly effective formula comprising essential oils
Eco-friendly product; safe for use around pets and children
Suitable for use in both indoor and outdoor setups
Cons
A temporary fix; bottle runs out quickly
Type: Indoor Flying Bug Killer | Volume: 14 oz | Target Insects: Flies, Gnats, Mosquitoes | Application Method: Spray into the air or on surfaces | Active Ingredients: Geraniol, Peppermint Oil, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Don't let the bed bugs bite, just buy a HARRIS Bed Bug Killer instead. The brand is America's oldest EPA-registered name and continues to provide economical yet practical solutions to eliminate pests and bugs. Therefore, if you want to exterminate these parasites from your beds, couches, and other furniture, get this right away.
Kills Resistant Bed Bugs & Their Eggs - Kills even the...
Kills Quickly - Knocks down bed bugs fast when sprayed...
Why Did We Like It?
Bed bugs are a menace and must be dealt with with a firm hand. With the Harris Bed Bug Killer, you can eradicate 'pyrethroid resistant' pests, nymphs, and eggs. Sometimes, traditional pesticides fail to produce any desirable results. That's when you need a potent and strong treatment formula like this one.
You can apply it to affected spots or spray it over the bed frames, box springs, and mattresses. However, make sure to avoid pillows, bedding, and clothing. Additionally, you may use it inside empty dressers, closets, and other wooden furnishings.
After application, the formula stays for up to 16 weeks, so you won't be seeing a recurrence if you periodically treat all the vulnerable areas. Besides, it's odorless and stainless, which is quite a relief considering that you'll be using it in your bedroom and other interior spaces. Also, it's rated safe for pets, and overall a better option to minimize environmental hazards.
What Could've Been Better?
Nothing except the nozzle. While we have no complaints regarding the product performance, the low-quality nozzle is an annoyance. Therefore, if you have decided to buy this, we suggest getting a spray bottle and pouring the contents into it. So, if that seems viable, it's still an excellent choice.
Pros
Exterminates’ pyrethroid resistant’ pests, nymphs, and eggs
Suitable for use on bed frames, box springs, and mattresses
Odorless and stainless formula for indoor pests
Safe for use around pets
Cons
Poor quality nozzle may compromise performance
Type: Bed Bug Spray | Volume: 1 Gal | Target Insects: Bed bugs | Application Method: Spray on infested areas and surfaces | Active Ingredients: Deltamethrin, N-Octyl Bicycloheptene Dicarboximide
We're halfway through our recommendations, and now is a good time to introduce the Raid Ant & Roach Killer Spray. If you only have a few pesky ants and bugs in your kitchen, there's no point in buying an intensive treatment formula. In that case, we suggest using this product for your limited needs.
Great for use around kids and pets, when used as direct
Why Did We Like It?
First off, we want to start by discussing the active ingredients of this bug repellent. You'd be surprised to know that the formulation includes lemongrass extract and geraniol synthesized from pine trees.
Therefore, It's safe to use on kitchen surfaces and other interiors, but you must avoid contact with skin and food. Other than that, you may apply it on cracks, crevices, cabinets, walls, doors, window frames, and around water pipes where insects are harboring.
Furthermore, it's safe to use around pets and children as long as you read the label and follow the directions for use. Besides, this cylindrical container is a cinch to store, and as such, you may keep it in a kitchen cupboard for instant access.
What Could've Been Better?
Well, there's no sugarcoating here, but the smell is god-awful. While extremely effective on pests, the strong scent can linger for some time, and it can get really unpleasant. Therefore, use it sparingly and repeat only when necessary. Also, avoid using it in the kitchen while preparing food.
Pros
Eco-friendly bug killer made with lemongrass extract and geraniol
Suitable for use in the kitchen and other indoor surfaces
Formula is safe for use around pets and children
Comes in an easy-to-use and store cylindrical container
Cons
Releases a strong, unpleasant odor during application
Type: Indoor Insect Spray | Volume: 11 oz | Target Insects: Ants, Roaches | Application Method: Spray directly on insects or infested areas | Active Ingredients: Imiprothrin, Cypermethrin, Prallethrin
The Syngenta 73654 Demand CS Insecticide is a concentrated formula that has its own unique mode of operation. More often than not, people are misinformed about how to use concentrate and end up making errors and failed attempts. Therefore, we recommend that you learn a little bit more about its uses before buying it.
Demand cs controls more than 30 Common insects including...
Demand cs is a water-based insecticide concentrate that...
Why Did We Like It?
First off, the Syngenta 73654 contains microcapsules that adhere to the insects as they crawl over treated surfaces. When these insects return to their breeding place, the smaller microcapsules release the active ingredient that kills all the bugs at the source.
Meanwhile, the larger microcaps remain intact and gradually release the active ingredient later, ensuring long-lasting, residual pest control for up to 90 days. Therefore, this insecticide, unlike most other pest repellents, does not kill on contact. It's essentially a long-term treatment option that will keep your home free from bugs for a considerable time.
Since it's a concentrate, you'll have to dilute it with water before application. An 8 oz container can take anywhere between 8 to 40 gallons of repellent formula. The ideal ratio depends on the severity of the situation; however, you must avoid over-diluting. Furthermore, it's suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, so you can prepare a bigger batch and spray in and around your home.
What Could've Been Better?
The performance of this product greatly depends on the application. If it does not seem to work, you may have gone wrong somewhere in the process. As we said, it's not a regular contact bug killer, and you may need a little more information before going down the DIY route.
Pros
Microcapsules stick to the insects and kill them at the source
Provides long-lasting, residual pest control for up to 90 days
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Long-term treatment option; can create up to 80 gallons of formula
Cons
Application is a bit tricky and requires some experience
Type: Professional Insecticide | Volume: 10 oz | Target Insects: Various insects | Application Method: Dilute and spray on surfaces or treat specific areas | Active Ingredients: Lambda-Cyhalothrin
If you're looking for something between traditional insecticides and organic bug repellents, the Orange Guard 101 Home Pest Control is the ideal option. That said, it's a strong performer, designed to kill ants, fleas, roaches, and other pests, thereby controlling their population and reducing the risk of an infestation.
Let's start by saying that the active ingredient of this product is D-Limonene-orange peel oil. This particular essential oil is a natural insect repellent and can wipe out bug colonies inside your home.
Furthermore, it's a water-based formula that instantly makes it safe for use around children, pets, and even food. The Orange Guard is essentially a contact killer, so be sure to spray along the insides of drawers, cupboards, cabinets, and other cracks and crevices.
For the best results, saturate the required area until it's wet. This approach is ideal for ants and other crawlers. However, for cockroaches and other flying bugs, a sprayer is most suitable. After application, wait for about 3 minutes and then wipe off excess with a damp sponge or cloth. It's suitable for your interiors and exteriors, so apply it wherever needed.
What Could've Been Better?
When you douse an area with this product, it may, at times, leave a stain. This issue can really limit its application for some users. More often than not, you'll have to spray in inconspicuous locations to avoid marking up the surface. We suggest keeping it handy when you would rather avoid chemical treatment.
Water-based formula safe for use around food, children, and pets<
Suitable for use in interior and exterior settings
Powerful contact killer wipes out insect colonies
Cons
Formula may leave a stain on surfaces
Type: Natural Pest Control | Volume: 1 Gal | Target Insects: Various insects | Application Method: Spray on surfaces, cracks, and entry points | Active Ingredients: D-Limonene, Linalool
If you thought that we've run out of organic options, then we're here to surprise you with the Eco Defense Bed Bug Killer. This high-performing product is specially formulated to kill on contact. So, if you want to avoid handling chemical-based pesticides, we suggest investing in this non-toxic option.
KILLS ON CONTACT - Natural ingredients eliminate bed bugs on...
NON STAINING - Won't stain your bedding like some products...
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, the Eco Defense deals with bugs at all stages of growth (adults, nymphs, and eggs). Therefore, you can completely eradicate wood-boring pests with this natural, fast-action formula.
Since it does not contain any chemicals, pesticides, or poisonous ingredients, you can confidently spray the bug repellent without causing any health hazards in children or pets. Basically, when you're using this unique product, you're harnessing the power of home-grown and natural ingredients that do not negatively impact the environment.
Therefore, you can successfully exterminate bed bugs without resorting to nasty chemical warfare. For the best results, thoroughly spray your mattress and bed frame, and don't miss out on the seams, labels, handles, piped edges, and labels. It has a dense and heavy fragrance, so make sure to ventilate the room.
Unlike chemical pesticides, you can even use it on clothes, toys, shoes, and books. Also, it's completely anti-stain, so you don't need to worry about spots and marks.
What Could've Been Better?
Well, it would be naive on our part to expect the results of a pest control treatment from this product. That said, be prepared to apply it continuously on the affected spots and areas to prevent an infestation. However, if the product does not work, you may need to hire professional exterminators.
Pros
Work on bugs at all stages of growth (adults, nymphs, eggs)
Product does not contain chemicals, pesticides, or toxic ingredients
Natural, organic repellent rated child and pet-safe
Suitable for use on clothes, toys, shoes, and books
Cons
Results are not comparable to pest control treatments
Type: Bed Bug Spray | Volume: 16 oz | Target Insects: Bed bugs | Application Method: Spray on infested areas and surfaces | Active Ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Geraniol, Cedarwood Oil
As the name suggests, Bedlam Plus Bed Bug Aerosol is a superior product specially formulated to terminate bed bugs and their hatchlings. Sometimes, the pest situation can get out of hand, and eventually, it becomes a nightmare to deal with these annoying creepers. So, if you mean business and want a complete wipe-out, we recommend purchasing this item.
Two week residual on wood, ceramic surfaces and carpet
Why Did We Like It?
While it's mainly used for exterminating bed bugs, Bedlam Plus is also quite useful in killing carpet beetles, clothes moths, dust mites, fleas, and brown dog ticks. It can conveniently access the most challenging hiding places, including headboards, behind the frame, box springs, and mattresses, thanks to the easy-aim nozzle.
It even works on 'pyrethroid-resistant' bed bugs, thereby curbing growth and further invasion. What impressed us the most is its dual operation of quick kill and residual function. Therefore, once you apply the spray, it will not only kill the existing pests but also prevent a recurrence. Long story short, it has a two-week residual on wood, ceramic surfaces, and carpets.
Furthermore, you can even apply it on electronic gadgets like radios and alarm clocks as smaller bugs often find shelter in them. Besides, it does not stain water-safe fabrics and surfaces, so you can apply it on compatible mattresses and beddings. To make sure, conduct a patch test in an inconspicuous area and look for possible staining or discoloration.
What Could've Been Better?
Since it's an aerosol spray, Bedlam Plus is not safe for children or pets. Therefore, if you're treating your bed and other furnishings, do so with the utmost care, making sure not to expose pets or children to chemical fumes. At the same time, to avoid skin contact, wear gloves, and protective gear before application.
Pros
Works on carpet beetles, clothes moths, dust mites, fleas
Has a two-week residual on wood, ceramic surfaces, and carpets
Does not stain water-safe fabrics and surfaces
Applicable on electronic gadgets like radios and alarm clocks
Cons
Not suitable for use around children and pets
Type: Bed Bug Spray | Volume: 17 oz | Target Insects: Bed bugs, Lice, Ticks | Application Method: Spray on infested areas and surfaces | Active Ingredients: N-Octyl Bicycloheptene Dicarboximide, Imidacloprid, Cyfluthrin
Now that we've reached the end of our list, we would like to finish off with the BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate. If you're looking for a long-term solution to win the battle against bugs, this is undoubtedly one of the best options. While temporary fixes may cost less, a high-quality repellent like this one ensures maximum protection and peace of mind.
Creates a protective barrier for your home, treat your...
Water-based, odorless and non-staining
Why Did We Like It?
As evident from the name itself, this product is a concentrate that has to be mixed with water and applied with a spray container. The ideal ratio is 4 oz of Buggslayer to 1 gallon of water. Do not over-dilute the mixture as that can compromise its performance.
After that, all you need to do is spray around the home's foundation and at entry points like windows, doors, soffits, and eaves. Basically, cover every little nook and cranny, which allows passage to these pests inside the house. This formula is specially designed for outdoor use only and creates a protective barrier along your house's perimeter.
Any insects that crawl across the treated areas will die within an hour or less. Furthermore, it's a highly effective residual killer and keeps working for weeks before it needs to be reapplied. Since it's a water-based product, the Buggslayer is odorless and non-staining.
What Could've Been Better?
We do not have any complaints regarding the effectiveness of this product, but some users would prefer cheaper alternatives. The concentrate comes in 16 oz bottles, so it's meant to last for 4 applications. So, before buying this, we suggest you do the math and get something more economical if it all seems too expensive.
Pros
Designed to prevent insects from entering inside homes
Water-based product with an odorless and non-staining formula
Creates a protective barrier along the perimeter of the house
Keeps working for weeks before it needs to be reapplied
Cons
Product is a tad bit pricey
Type: Outdoor Insecticide | Volume: 16 oz | Target Insects: Various outdoor insects | Application Method: Dilute and spray on outdoor areas | Active Ingredients: Permethrin, Piperonyl Butoxide
Knowing all about the 11 best bug killers may seem like enough information to go ahead and buy one. However, you still need to find out which of these options will work best to deal with your home's current pest situation.
That's why we've put together a buyers' guide to help you choose better. Take a look at these key considerations now.
Bug Killer Composition
By now, you already know that there are essentially two broad categories of bug killers - chemical-based and organic. While the former type includes highly potent insecticides, pesticides, and repellents, the organic ones are considerably milder yet quite effective.
Contact or Residual?
Aerosol bug sprays are contact killers, while pest control formulas are mostly residual killers. You can also find options with both properties as they are more effective in the long run and reduce the chance of infestations.
Application Process
The application process matters, especially for chemical treatment formulas, as they contain toxic ingredients. In some cases, these products have to be diluted before applying. Furthermore, you may need protective gear to avoid contact with skin, face, or eyes.
Bug Killers FAQ's
Are bug killers safe for indoor use?
Bug killers designed for indoor use are generally safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. However, it’s essential to choose a bug killer that is specifically labeled for indoor use and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Can bug killers be used outdoors?
Yes, there are bug killers specifically designed for outdoor use. These products are typically more powerful and have features to withstand outdoor conditions. Outdoor bug killers include electric bug zappers, citronella candles, and insecticide sprays for yards and gardens.
How long do bug killers last?
The longevity of bug killers can vary depending on the type of product and how it is used. For example, electric bug zappers may last for several seasons, while chemical sprays may need to be reapplied periodically. It’s best to check the product instructions or consult with the manufacturer for specific details on each bug killer.
Do bug killers attract more bugs?
Bug killers are designed to attract and eliminate insects. While they may attract some bugs to the area, the purpose is to ultimately eliminate them. The level of attraction can vary depending on the type of bug killer and the specific insects it targets.
Can bug killers be used around food or food preparation areas?
It’s important to choose bug killers that are safe for use around food and food preparation areas. Some bug killers, such as sticky traps or natural repellents, are generally safe to use in these areas. However, chemical insecticides should be used with caution and kept away from food and food contact surfaces.
Are bug killers effective against all types of insects?
Bug killers are designed to target specific types of insects, such as mosquitoes, flies, or gnats. Different bug killers may have varying effectiveness against different pests. It’s important to choose a bug killer that is specifically designed to target the insects you are dealing with.
Can bug killers be harmful to pets?
Bug killers can be harmful to pets if ingested or if they come into direct contact with the chemical insecticides. It’s crucial to choose pet-safe bug killers and follow the instructions carefully. Keep pets away from treated areas until the product has dried or dissipated.
Can bug killers be used in bedrooms or sleeping areas?
Bug killers can be used in bedrooms or sleeping areas, but it’s important to choose products specifically designed for indoor use and follow the instructions provided. Some bug killers emit light or noise, which may disrupt sleep, so it’s crucial to consider these factors when selecting a bug killer for bedroom use.
Conclusion
That's all for now!
We hope you could find the most suitable product from our all-star selection. That said, before buying any of these bug killers, assess the situation at your home. There's no point buying a powerful, chemical-based pesticide only for a few crawlers inside your bedroom or kitchen.
On that note, we'd like to take your leave. But before we sign off, here's a quick recap of our favorites.