Insecticides are essential for controlling insect infestations in houses and barns. There are several different types of insecticides, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the different types of insecticides and how to use them effectively can help you keep your home and barn free from pests, and here at the Coop we try to provide lots of options to fit your exact needs to manage it properly.
Active Ingredients
Active Ingredients are the main thing to consider when looking at an insecticide, as that is the ingredient that will cause the intended effect on the insects. Not all active ingredients are created equal and may not work on every type of bug. The main active ingredients used in insecticides are pyrethrins and pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, organophosphates, and carbamates. Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are naturally occurring insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers. They are effective against a wide range of insects and are commonly used in sprays and foggers. Neonicotinoids are a newer class of insecticides that are highly effective against a wide range of insects, including fleas, ticks, and bed bugs. Organophosphates and carbamates are older classes of insecticides that are highly effective against insects but can be toxic to humans and pets.
Types of Insecticides
Sprays: Sprays are the most common type of insecticide used in homes and barns. They come in aerosol cans or pump sprayers and can be applied directly to surfaces or sprayed into the air. They are effective against a wide range of insects but may not be suitable for use in areas with a high concentration of people or animals.
Tapes & Traps: Insecticide tapes are sticky strips that can be hung in areas where insects are likely to congregate. They are effective against flies, gnats, and other flying insects and are ideal for use in barns and other areas where there are livestock. Similarly, the options for traps are very popular and for yellow jackets and flies as well.
Foggers: Foggers, also known as bug bombs, release a mist of insecticide into the air. They are ideal for use in large spaces and can quickly kill insects in hard-to-reach areas. However, they can be toxic to humans and pets and should be used with caution.
Other types: There are also several other types of insecticides, including baits, dusts, and granules. Baits are used to attract insects and then kill them. Dusts are applied to surfaces and can kill insects when they come into contact with them. Granules are applied to the ground and can kill insects in their larvae stage.
Dealing with Common Insects
Ants: Ants can be difficult to control because they live in large colonies. To control ants, it is important to find and eliminate the source of the colony and if inside to seal off the entrances they are using to enter. Using ant baits or sprays is a highly effective method as the sprays will kill the ants on contact and the baits will be carried back to the colony to eliminate the rest of the ants. A combination of the two is always going to be the most effective for quick results.
Flies: Flies are attracted to food and other organic matter. To control flies, it is important to keep food and garbage covered and disposed of properly. Fly traps and tapes can also be effective. Prevention is the most effective method for flies rather than elimination. Using stall refreshers like Sweet PDZ if you have animals and maintaining a clean area will be very beneficial
Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water. To control mosquitoes, it is important to eliminate sources of standing water around your home and barn. Mosquito repellents and foggers can also be effective.
Bed bugs: Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that live in bedding and furniture. To control bed bugs, it is important to wash bedding and vacuum furniture regularly. Insecticides can also be used to kill bed bugs.
While insecticides can be effective in controlling insect infestations, they can also be hazardous if not used properly. It is important to be aware of the potential dangers and to take precautions when using insecticides.
Firstly, always read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. This includes information on how to properly mix and apply the insecticide, as well as any safety precautions that need to be taken.
When using insecticides, it is important to wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a face mask, to avoid direct contact with the product. Insecticides can be toxic to humans and pets if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, so it is important to take all necessary precautions.
If you are using a fogger or bug bomb, it is important to vacate the area before activating the product. Leave the area for several hours to allow the insecticide to dissipate before returning. It is also important to cover or remove any food or utensils before using insecticides in food preparation areas.
Keep in mind that insecticides can also have unintended consequences, such as harming beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Try to use insecticides only when necessary and in a targeted manner to avoid unnecessary harm to the environment.
Natural Option
When looking at a more sustainable and environmentally friendly option, some of the benefits would of course be for less contaminant and toxicity in the environment but that also reduces those for you and your pets as well. The most effective and natural pesticide we have is Diatomaceous Earth. It actively kills bugs and insects by the microscopic sharp edges cutting the bugs and the extreme absorbent qualities of the D.E. literally pull the moisture out of the bugs dehydrating them and killing them. This happens on such a small scale that large animals are not affected in the slightest and in fact the D.E. Our store's carry is considered food grade and is even known to have great medical benefits and is 100% safe for animals and humans. Highly effective and environmentally friendly, this may be a great option to use around your house or animal area.
Stop into the store and talk with our staff about what product is right for you!
We’ll see you at the Co-op!
