If you are looking for the best bug killer for home use, the most important factors to consider are the ingredients, method of application, and the specific bugs being targeted. Below, I’ve handpicked my favorite products for household use based on these features. Read on to learn more about why they matter.
I’ve learned that pest control works best as a consistent habit. I want my home to remain as bug free and toxin free as possible, and that is why I always make it a point to regularly clean the house and minimize unnecessary chemicals where possible. Sadly, household pests are a fact of life that can be difficult to ignore, and sometimes, even with proper prevention measures, they still show up.
Fortunately, there are still effective ways to keep these unwanted guests at bay. I’ve done a lot of research across the web including articles from experts and checking out tons of user reviews (as well as my personal experience) to determine the best bug killers for the home.
Each of these pest control product includes a detailed review with pros and cons, so you can easily compare them to each another. We cover both the strong pesticides for the times when you need them, as well as effective natural prevention methods such as diatomaceous earth.
My picks are at the top but if you want more detail, scroll down to check out additional factors you may want to consider before finalizing your choice.
Here are the top picks to rid your home of those bugs once and for all!
A Quick Comparison of the Bug Sprays and Solutions
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9 Best Bug Killers to Get Rid of Pests in Your Home
Below are my top picks for the top bug killers and bug sprays to eliminate pests in your home. Most products like professional bug sprays can kill all kinds of bugs around your house, while others only target a specific species. Nevertheless, all items on this list help keep your home clean and safe.
1. Compare-N-Save Concentrate Indoor and Outdoor Insect Control – Editor’s Pick
Starting off with this list of the top bug killers for home is the Compare-N-Save Concentrate Indoor and Outdoor Insect Control.
This water-based formula contains 7.9% Bifenthrin concentrate as an active ingredient, which is safe to use for both indoor and outdoor insects. Thus, it can eliminate a wide spectrum of insects and pests like ants, cockroaches, fleas, and mites.
Additionally, it is easy to use. Simply spray the solution at areas with signs of insect infestation. It is best to apply it to cracks and crevices, corners, closets, doors and windows, sinks, around water pipes, and similar areas. This way, you can form a protective barrier against different types of bugs inside your home as well as control exterior pests.
On top of all these benefits, this 32-ounce container can cover up to 176,000 square feet of area. So whether it is for indoor use around the whole house or in a single room, it is more than enough to meet your needs.
Finally, most reviews for this product were positive. If there is any critique, it would be the cap as it was not that secure, leading to accidental spillages. It also kills the grass, which is not suitable for lawn use.
The pros far outweigh the cons, though. For this reason, I deemed the Compare-N-Save Concentrate as the best bug killer for the home.
Pros:
- 7.9% Bifenthrin concentrate and water-based formula is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use
- It can target a wide range of pests, including ants, cockroaches, fleas, flying bugs, mites, and stink bugs
- It is compatible with other pesticides and home pest control spray to increase effectivity
- Easy-to-use aerosol spray bottle to manage exterior pests
- A wide coverage area of up to 176,000 square feet
Cons:
- Some users said the cap was not secure, which can result in accidental spillages
- It can also harm grass, which is not ideal for your lawn and treating garden insects
2. Safer Earth-Based Insect Killer – Runner-Up
If you are looking for an effective power-based, completely odor-free, and non-staining killer for your home, consider getting the Safer Earth-Based Insect Killer.
It uses crushed fossilized fresh-water algae, also known as diatoms or diatomaceous earth formula as an active ingredient. This earth-based powder can kill bed bugs and a wide range of pests, including cockroaches, crickets, earwigs, fleas, silverfish, and stink bugs, among many others.
Plus, there is no need to worry about the insects growing immune to the fast-acting formula. As long as you keep the product dry, it remains an effective pest control.
Furthermore, this earth-based insect killer works instantly. It can affect hidden bugs and pests in just minutes. At the same time, it can completely kill mites and crawling creatures as fast as 48 hours.
Lastly, it is easy to apply. Simply sprinkle the powder across infested areas to act as a protective barrier in your home. I also recommend covering every crack and crevice where pests may travel for a more effective bug repellent solution.
However, there are still a few cons to consider before buying this powdered insect killer. First, some users said that it could stain fabrics and shoes, so it is best to use a pair of gloves when applying it. Second, it also tends to be messy since it is a powder. Avoid using it in windy conditions, especially when there are children or pets around.
Overall, though, the Safer Earth-Based Insect Killer is among the best broad-spectrum pesticides without any lingering odor today.
Pros:
- 100% diatomaceous earth formula can eliminate and repel insects, including small bed bugs and beet worms
- The active ingredients can work in just minutes and completely kill crawling creatures in as little as 48 hours
- Insects cannot grow immune to the powder
- Easy to apply contact insecticide prevent the need to hire professional exterminators
Cons:
- Some users said that it could stain fabrics, shoes, and other surfaces such as a bed frame,
- The powder material is susceptible to flying in windy conditions
3. Combat Roach Killing Bait
Roaches are one of my least favorite household insects and I’ve even written an entire article on the best roach killer options. If you’re specifically struggling with cockroaches you may want to check out that article, but in general one of my top recommendations is Combat Roach Killing Bait.
This specially designed large roach bait contains hydramethylnon to weaken and eventually kill those pesky cockroaches. It can also eliminate insect eggs to prevent future insects from invading your home.
Plus, it is easy to use and does not require mess baits. Simply place it in areas where you see roaches. These include behind appliances, behind toilets, under sinks, and even between your garden plants.
What’s more, the package already includes eight child-resistant bait stations. Thus, there are greater chances of eliminating the roaches living in your home.
But before buying this bug or insect killer, it is important to consider its downsides. First, some users said that it does not effectively treat the infestation of German cockroaches. Second, a few customers also expressed concern about the harmful chemicals, which may not be safe for their children and pets. I recommend keeping this bait filled with synthetic chemicals away from kids and pets to avoid accidental swallowing.
Nevertheless, the Combat Roach Killing Bait is among the best home pest control solutions for killing bugs.
Pros:
- Large roach bait has hydramethylnon ingredient to kill roaches on the spot
- Eight child-resistant bait stations mean a greater chance of eliminating all the roaches in your home
- It does not require any complicated activation
Cons:
- Some users reported that it could not kill stronger German cockroaches
- A few also said that it is not pet safe due to the harmful active ingredients
4. Raid Killer Bug Killer Home Spray
Do you prefer a quick and convenient way to get rid of the bugs and pests in your home? Then, the Raid Killer Bug Killer Home Spray might meet your needs.
This bug spray uses a strong essential oil formula, which includes lemongrass extract and geraniol synthesized from pine trees, to kill a wide range of insects. Thus, this effective bug spray can get rid of ants, cockroaches, and other pests without harming children and pets.
Additionally, it can instantly weaken and eliminate insects, especially when you spray it directly.
Moreover, this aerosol spray is safe to use around sensitive areas, including kitchens and bedrooms.
Despite these advantages, there are still cons to consider before buying this aerosol spray. First, some users said the odor is strong and overpowering. Second, a few customers noticed that it could leave a sticky mess on the floor.
Overall, though, the Raid Killer Home Spray is still among the best bug sprays for your home.
Pros:
- Natural and environmental-friendly ingredients to ensure the safety of children and pets
- Home pest control spray can eliminate a wide range of insects
- Fast and effective results
- Convenient spray bottle design makes it easier to cover a wide area
Cons:
- Strong odor might be overwhelming for other users
- Some customers also said that it could leave a sticky residue on their floor
5. Spectrum Bug Killer for Home
The Spectrum Bug Killer is another convenient and effective spray to consider if you want to get rid of the bugs in your home.
This bug spray instantly kills ants, fleas, and mosquitoes on contact. Plus, it takes advantage of the repelling properties of citronella oil to fight off other flying insects for hours. It is important to note, though, that the citronella and other active ingredients can produce a slight smell but it is non-staining.
This pesticide can also work up to 12 weeks against carpenter ants, harvester ants, earwigs, house crickets, lady beetles, and other crawling insects in your yard. So, there is no need to worry about the changing weather because it can last you all summer or at least one season.
Furthermore, this bug killer for home does not require mixing. Instead, it allows you to attach the quick-flip sprayer directly to the garden hose. This way, you can conveniently treat your lawn, house plants, and other outdoor surfaces where pests and other eight-legged creatures hide.
There is even a wide coverage area that can treat up to 5,000 square feet of lawn. So whether you want to treat your whole landscape area or a specific spot in your garden bed, this bug killer solution might suit your needs.
However, before buying this bedbug spray, it is best to consider its downsides. First, some users said the formula can harm their pets and edible crops. Second, a few customers also experience the sprayer shooting the solution backward, making it not children and pet safe. This ultimately increases the chances of accidentally spraying your face, neck, and body.
But considering its benefits and budget-friendly price, the Spectrum Bug Solution is among the best bug sprays for home.
Pros:
- It can kill ants, beetles, mosquitoes, and other crawling pests on contact
- Long-lasting solution can control the outdoor environment for up to 12 weeks against pests
- Quick-flip hose-end sprayer is convenient to use
- A wide coverage area can treat areas up to 5,000 square feet
Cons:
- Some users said that it is harmful to their pets
- A few customers also experienced the sprayer shooting backward
6. Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Home Spray
If you want a pet-friendly bug sprayer, consider getting the Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Home Spray.
It uses natural ingredients and essential oils, including neem oil, peppermint oil, and cedar extract. These active ingredients kill bugs, fruit flies, mosquitoes, moths, roaches, and other pests.
Additionally, this bug spray is versatile enough that it can also control the flea inside your home. It can eliminate adults, eggs, and larvae in the home without harming your children and pets.
Moreover, this biopesticide is easy to use. Simply spray throughout the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and other living areas. It is also best to apply the bug killer solution around doors, windows, cabinets, baseboards, and under appliances.
Despite these advantages, I recommend checking out the downsides of this bug spray before buying it. First, some users said that the odor is strong and overpowering, which can bother those with asthma and other respiratory problems. Second, a few noticed that it leaves yellow stains on carpets and fabrics.
Nevertheless, the Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Home Spray is one of the best bug sprays on the market today. Learn how to attract mosquitoes and kill them.
Pros:
- Natural essential oil solution is safe to use around children and pets
- It can trap and kill bugs, fleas, fruit flies, mosquitoes, moths, roaches, and other insects
- Easy-to-use biopesticide spray
- Cruelty-free solution free of fragrances and other chemicals
Cons:
- Strong and overpowering odor is not ideal for people with asthma and other respiratory problems
- A few users said that it could leave yellow stains on carpets and other fabrics, which is not ideal for those looking for a non-staining bug spray
7. Premo Guard Fast Acting Bed Bug Treatment
Similar to the previous pesticide, the Premo Guard Fast Acting Bed Bug Treatment uses natural ingredients to control pests around your home. Thus, it does not harm children and pets. It also does not leave any stains on the beddings, carpets, and other fabrics.
Additionally, this powerful insect killer can effectively get rid of ants, bed bug infestation, scabies, itch mites, spider mites, and cockroaches, among many others.
It kills nymphs, adults, and eliminates eggs on contact. Hence, it leaves you with a bug-free home. But to ensure the best results, close all windows and doors for the product to work.
There are a few disadvantages to consider, though, before buying this item. First, some users said the pesticide triggered their allergies, despite having natural ingredients. Second, a few customers noticed that it does little to eliminate bird and dust mites.
Nevertheless, the Premo Guard Fast Acting Bed Bug Treatment is still an excellent product to consider.
Pros:
- The pesticide uses natural ingredients to ensure product safety around children and pets
- It can eliminate ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, and mites, among other insects
- The spray bottle makes it easier to kill insects on the spot
Cons:
- Some users experienced allergies and itchiness when using the product
- A few users said that it does not work on bird and dust mites
8. Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer
The Ortho Home Defense MAX Insect Killer can eliminate home-invading insects like ants, fleas, roaches, and spiders. It also produces a bug barrier to prevent new bugs from invading your home for up to 12 months.
Additionally, the insecticide formula is non-staining and odor-free. Thus, you can instantly re-enter the treated areas after the spray has dried.
Furthermore, it includes an easy application wand. This item offers several spray settings to cover a large area of your home.
However, there are still a few downsides to consider before buying this pest control solution. First, some users said it sometimes suddenly stopped them from spraying the solution. Second, a few customers also noticed that some insects came back even after treating the area for a long time.
With that said, the Ortho Home Defense MAX Killer is among the best products on the market today.
Pros:
- Non-staining and odor-free solution
- One-touch continuous spray
- Easy application wand with multiple spray settings
- It keeps bugs outside your home
Cons:
- The spray suddenly stopped working
- A few users said that some insects continue to come back after treating the area
9. BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate for Stink Bugs
The last item on this list of the top bug solutions is the BUGGSLAYER Insecticide Concentrate.
It uses a water-based solution that is odorless and non-staining. In just minutes, it can eliminate insects that come in contact with the insecticide.
Additionally, it produces microscopic crystals that stick to the bugs when they cross the treated area. Then, they weaken and eventually kill them within a few hours.
Moreover, the solution is specially formulated for outdoor use. Rain and other weather conditions will not wash it away. Thus, it can ensure you can target insects and other pests for several weeks.
However, some users experienced inconsistent performance when it comes to killing box-elder bugs. A few customers also said that it did not kill stink bugs directly on contact.
Nevertheless, the BUGGSLAYER Insecticide is still one of the best insect killers for the home.
Pros:
- It creates a protective barrier around your home
- Water-based, non-staining, and odorless solution
- Residual killing power can affect bugs within a few hours
- Ideal for outdoor use
Cons:
- Inconsistent performance when targeting box-elder bugs
- Some users said that it did not kill stink bugs on contact
How to Choose the Best Bug Killer for Home
If it is your first time buying a bug insecticide for your home, it can be overwhelming to choose the right product. Fret not, though! Below, I will discuss the factors to consider before finalizing your purchasing decision.
Ingredients
One of the first factors to think about is the ingredients of the bug killer solution. Some products use chemicals to get rid of insects, while others are organic-based.
Choosing between the two depends on your needs and preferences, as each one offers pros and cons.
Chemical-based pesticides can instantly kill pests on contact. They are most effective when used as insect control for commercial crops. They are also suitable indoors, but they can cause allergic reactions to some people. A few bug sprays can also be highly toxic to the environment. So if you have children, pregnant women, or pets around the home, it is best to avoid spraying directly when they are around. You might also want to wait for the bug spray to dry before allowing them inside.
Meanwhile, bug spray with natural ingredients is safe to use around children, pets, and other vulnerable people. It is also environmentally-friendly as it breaks down the soil quicker. However, other users complain that it can take a while for the insects to die when using an organic pesticide.
Formula
Bug insecticides also come in different formulas.
If you prefer convenience above all else, consider getting a bug killer spray. This item allows you to kill insects in just a few seconds. Plus, it enables you to cover a wide area quickly. Finally, it does not require any mixing or complicated assembly.
However, those who have respiratory problems might want to get a powder-based bug killer instead. This formula does not travel the air, thus eliminating the risk of allergies or respiratory problems. The only downside, though, is that it is susceptible to waste.
If you’d rather not use chemicals, try a bug zapper racket! Though not perfect for all types of bugs, they are fun to use on flying ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective bug spray?
The best insect spray will depend on several factors, such as your budget, personal preferences, and the type of home invading pests you want to get rid of. You should also consider if the bug repellent is for indoor and outdoor use. Finally, think about small things such as lingering odor, harmful fumes, and barrier protection, especially when choosing artificial sprays and other chemical insecticides.
How do bug killer solutions work?
Bug killers work in different ways, depending on their type.
But to give you an idea, most bug sprays act as repellent. They contain active ingredients that mimic the natural oils in flowers, specifically chrysanthemum. Then, they quickly affect the nervous systems of insects on contact. They ultimately cause tremors, paralysis, and quick death to crawl pests.
Are bug insecticides safe to use?
Yes, bug sprays are safe as long as you use them properly, as stated in their instruction manuals. You should also make it a habit to check the labels. Avoid using any bug spray that is not approved by EPA.
How long do bug killers last?
Most home pest control spray solutions can kill bugs and insects with just a single application. They can control the treated area for weeks or even months. In general, look for a product that can last up to three months.
However, there are still bug sprays that require occasional applications, which are usually organic bug sprays. They can also last for one time only before you need to spray or treat the affected area again.
Can I spray a bug killer on my plants?
You can use bug killer sprays on plants as they are relatively safe to use in your garden and yard. However, make sure to follow the instructions on the bug spray bottle. Doing so will prevent you from inflicting damage on your plants.
Is an insect killer harmful to humans?
As long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the bottle, an insect killer solution will not harm you. The most important thing to follow is do not swallow or breathe copious amounts of the solution. Since bug killers contain harmful ingredients, they can pose a serious threat to humans when used inappropriately.
Is a bug killer toxic to dogs?
Most chemical pesticides and insecticides contain active ingredients that can irritate dogs and other pets. They can cause drooling, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, among other symptoms.
However, do not let this fact scare you. As long as you use home bug sprays properly and take reasonable precautions, you do not have to worry about harming your pets.
Can I spray a bug killer on hardwood floors?
It is not recommended to spray a bug or insect killer on hardwood floors and other sensitive surfaces. That is because the chemical ingredients can easily discolor and damage your wooden flooring in your home. If you need to spray in a room with hardwood floors, avoid spraying it downwards to reduce the risk of stains.
Conclusion
That sums up my top picks for the best bug sprays for your home! Each garden bug killer is effective in getting rid of crawling insects and other pests.
But if we can only suggest one best home pest control spray, it would be the Compare-N-Save Concentrate Indoor and Outdoor Insect Control. It uses Bifenthrin ingredients to eliminate a wide range of pests, including ants, bed bugs, fleas, mites, roaches, stink bugs, and even insect eggs. This powder-based bug solution also kills insects on the spot and can cover a wide area. Finally, this home pest control powder is compatible with other pesticides to keep the insects from coming back.
