Few pests are as frustrating and tricky as bed bugs. Bed bug sprays can be a handy tool to control the situation while waiting for a pro or to help maintain the results of a professional treatment. But choosing the right one can be challenging amidst the sea of options available. To make this process easier, here are the nine best bed bug sprays.
Read our selection of the best bed bug sprays and our buyer’s guide to choose just the right product for your needs.
Best Bed Bug Sprays — Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall Pick: Raid Max Bed Bug Crack & Crevice Extended Protection Foaming Spray
One of the hardest aspects of successfully controlling bed bugs is that these sneaky pests love to hide in cracks and crevices. Our best over-the-counter bed bug spray solves this problem by combining two mechanisms: A precision nozzle and an expanding foam that help reach bed bugs in their hiding spots.
Why is this our top choice? With a high customer rating on Amazon, the Raid Crack & Crevice Foaming Spray is formulated with both pyrethroids and a neonicotinoid, killing pyrethroid-resistant bed bug strains and their eggs for up to eight weeks. It can be used on laminated wood furniture, carpets, and mattresses.
Specifications:
- Size: 17.5 oz
- Active ingredients: 3-phenoxybenzyl-(1RS,3RS,1RS,3SR)-2, 2-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate (0.40%), N-Octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide (1.00%), Imidacloprid (0.05%)
- Residual effect: Eight weeks on laminated wood surfaces.
- Scent: Unscented
Pros:
- Comes with a precision nozzle that allows applications in hard-to-reach areas.
- A residual effect that keeps killing bed bugs for eight weeks on laminated wood surfaces.
- Kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
Cons:
- Toxic to humans and pets when applied incorrectly.
- Doesn’t cover broad surfaces.
- Shouldn’t be applied to bed linens or places where the house occupants will have direct contact with the product.
Where to buy
2. Best Professional Spray: PT Alpine Flea & Bed Bug Pressurized Insecticide
The PT Alpine Flea & Bed Bug Pressurized Insecticide is a professional-grade spray that combines an insect growth regulator (IGR) with a neonicotinoid and pyrethroid to efficiently control resistant bed bug strains and provide a residual effect of three weeks of control on multiple surfaces. Easy to apply, its light formula dries quickly.
What makes it a good product? PT Alpine has a dual mode of action, killing bed bugs on contact and offering a residual action of up to three weeks. The IGR in its formula interrupts the bed bug life cycle, resulting in an effective control. This broadcast spray is labeled for direct use on folds and seams of mattresses and can be used in the entire room.
Specifications:
- Size: 20 oz
- Active ingredients: Dinotefuran 0.25%, Prallethrin 0.05%, and Pyriproxyfen 0.1%
- Residual effect: Up to three weeks on multiple surfaces.
- Scent: It does have a faint odor, but customers report it is bearable.
Pros:
- A residual effect that keeps killing bed bugs for three weeks on multiple surfaces.
- The broad label allows for application in all parts of the room, including seams and folds of mattresses.
- Kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
Cons:
- Toxic to humans and pets when used improperly.
- Can’t be applied to all parts of the mattress.
- The price is not as budget-friendly as other items on this list.
Where to buy
3. Best Aerosol Formula: Bedlam Plus Aerosol
Our third place goes to a professional-grade product that is easy to use and can be sprayed on larger surfaces. Labeled for use on mattresses, box springs, headboards, and other non-food areas in your home, the Bedlam Plus aerosol is trusted by pros for its efficacy in getting rid of these persistent pests.
How does it work? This aerosol spray formula contains a sodium channel modulator that affects the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, disrupting the bed bug’s nervous system. Because of this mechanism, Bedlam Plus is effective against pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
Specifications:
- Size: 17 oz
- Active ingredients: Imidacloprid 0.05%, MGK 264 1%, and Phenothrin 0.4%
- Residual effect: Up to two weeks in carpets, wood, and ceramic surfaces.
- Scent: It does have a faint scent, but the smell isn’t off-putting.
Pros:
- A residual effect that keeps killing bed bugs for two weeks.
- Doesn’t stain water-resistant surfaces.
- Can be used for broad coverage of all parts of the bed: mattress, box spring, headboards, and footboards
- Kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
Cons:
- Toxic to humans and pets when used improperly.
- Doesn’t reach cracks and crevices where bed bugs hide.
- Should not be applied to areas where food is stored.
Where to buy
4. Best Residual Spray: Raid Max Bed Bug Extended Protection
Looking for something to keep the bed bugs under control after a professional treatment? That’s when Raid Max Bed Bug Extended Protection comes to the rescue. A bit pricier than the Raid Cracks & Crevices Spray (our number one pick), this product has a great customer rating and covers more surfaces (although it should not be used as a broadcast surface spray).
What is it recommended for? Besides killing by contact, this Raid spray has an extended residual effect that keeps killing bed bugs for up to eight weeks. Easy to use, it can be sprayed on laminated wood, the edges and seams of mattresses, carpet edges, furniture and closets, the bed frame, and box springs.
Specifications:
- Size: 22 oz
- Active ingredients: 3-phenoxybenzyl-(1RS, 3RS, 1RS, 3SR)-2, a-dimethyl-3-(2-methylprop-1-enyl) cyclopropanecarboxylate 0.40%, N-Octyl bicycloheptene dicarboximide 1.00%, Imidacloprid 0.05%
- Residual effect: Up to eight weeks on laminated wood surfaces and mattresses.
- Scent: Consumers report the smell is tolerable or that it doesn’t smell.
Pros:
- Doesn’t stain water-safe fabric.
- Kills bed bugs for up to eight weeks on laminated wood surfaces and mattresses.
- Kills resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
Cons:
- Toxic to humans and animals when used improperly.
- Is pricier when compared to other sprays.
- Can’t be applied to mattress surfaces, but only in seams, edges, and folds.
Where to buy
5. Best Fast-Acting Spray: Harris 5-Minute Bed Bug Killer
The Harris 5-minute Bed Bug Killer is a solution for those who want a quick-action spray. Once in contact with bed bugs, the product kills within five minutes. A cheaper option for a broad-usage spray when compared to the Raid Extended Protection Spray, this product also earns a high customer rating.
What makes it stand out? The Harris 5-Minute Bed Bug Killer has an exclusive formula with EPA approval for application on all parts of the mattress. Additionally, the low concentration of the active ingredients may make it safer to handle than other chemical sprays, and the residual effect lasts from four weeks on other surfaces to six months on mattresses and unpainted wood.
Specifications:
- Size: 32 oz
- Active ingredients: Clothianidin (0.40%), Metofluthrin (0.01%), Piperonyl Butoxide (1%)
- Residual effect: Up to four weeks
- Scent: Unscented
Pros:
- Kills bed bugs on contact within five minutes.
- Odorless and non-staining formula.
- Residual effect lasts up to six months on mattresses and unpainted wood surfaces.
Cons:
- Can be toxic to children and pets if used improperly.
- Some customers report that the spray leaks.
Where to buy
Best Natural Bed Bug Sprays — Our Top Picks
1. Best Natural Bed Bug Spray: EcoVenger by EcoRaider
If harsh chemicals are a concern for you, investing in a natural spray is the way to go. These sprays count on natural products, such as essential oils, to kill and/or repel bed bugs. Our top natural bed bug spray pick combines geraniol with other ingredients to successfully kill bed bugs and their eggs while being safe for pets and children.
Why is it our top natural spray? The EcoRaider Bed Bug Spray is the only natural spray to provide a residual killing effect of 14 days: A study conducted by researchers from Rutgers University showed EcoRaider caused a 100% mortality rate on nymphs after 10 days and an 86% mortality rate on bed bug eggs after 14 days.
Specifications:
- Size: 16 oz and a 2 oz travel-size spray
- Active ingredients: Geraniol (1%), Cedarwood oil (1%), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (2%)
- Scent: Unscented
Pros:
- Kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs and their eggs.
- Has proven efficacy against bed bug nymphs and eggs.
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly formula.
- Residual effect that keeps killing bed bugs for up to 14 days.
Cons:
- Takes longer than other chemical sprays to kill bed bugs, more than three days according to the Rutgers study.
- Some customers complain the product has a strong smell.
Where to buy
2. Best Budget Pick: Bed Bug Patrol
Our second-best non-toxic bed bug spray is also second place in effectiveness against bed bugs in the same Rutgers study. The Bed Bug Patrol Spray has the lowest price per ounce among the natural sprays and is ideal for maintenance treatments or uninfected homes that are looking for prevention. It can be sprayed on mattresses, furniture, and even to get rid of bed bugs in your car.
The other products of the brand, when combined, form a complete bed bug treatment kit with travel-size sprays, gallon-size infestation treatments, and retreatment sprays.
How does it work? Bed Bug Patrol kills on contact and keeps working over time, killing from 92 to 98% of bed bug nymphs after 10 days. However, the Rutgers study shows it kills less than 17% of eggs after 14 days, so you’ll need to retreat to kill hatched bugs. Bed Bug Patrol contains clove oil, one of the most effective essential oils for treating bed bugs according to a study by Purdue.
Specifications:
- Size: 24 oz and a 3 oz travel-size spray
- Active ingredients: Clove Oil (0.03%), Peppermint Oil (1.0%), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (1.3%)
- Scent: Peppermint
Pros:
- Non-toxic to humans and pets.
- Kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs.
- Non-staining on water-safe surfaces.
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide a residual effect.
- Not as effective against bed bug eggs when compared to other sprays.
- Customers report needing to spray a large amount for it to kill bed bugs effectively.
Where to buy
3. Best Bed Bug Spray for Travel: Say Bye Bed Bug Killer
With a high customer rating on Walmart, the Say Bye Bed Bug Killer is another natural spray option that kills bed bugs on contact. This product is recommended for active bed bug outbreaks, and the brand has a 2 oz travel-size option that’s perfect to spray on your luggage and kill any bed bugs that might try hitchhiking to your home.
How can I use it? To obtain the best results, spray the infested areas twice a day (such as on the carpet, mattress, sheets, and other furniture) for at least two weeks or until the infestation is gone. Because of the natural ingredients, there’s no need for your family to stay out of the home during treatment.
Specifications:
- Size: 16 oz and a 2 oz travel spray (currently available only at Walmart)
- Active ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate 5%, Sodium Chloride 1%, Citric Acid 0.7%
- Scent: Unscented
Pros:
- Non-toxic to humans and pets.
- Odor and stain-free.
- There’s no need to vacate the house while applying the product.
Cons:
- No residual effect.
- May take up to two weeks of applying twice a day to see the infestation start to decline.
Where to buy
4. Best with a Pleasant Smell: Eco Defense Bed Bug Killer
Eco Defense is a fast-acting natural bed bug spray with a great customer rating. Without any toxic ingredients, this pet- and child-friendly spray is formulated with geranium oil, which has active components that repel bed bugs for up to 24 hours, according to recent scientific research. This USDA Certified Biobased Product product kills bed bugs in all life stages (eggs, nymphs, or adults) on contact.
Where can I apply it? The Eco Defense Bed Bug Killer was formulated by professional exterminators and can be applied to bedding, furniture, and cracks and crevices where bed bugs may hide.
Specifications:
- Size: 16 oz
- Active ingredients: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (4%), Geranium Oil (0.5%)
- Scent: Unscented
Pros:
- Kills adult bed bugs and their eggs on contact.
- Non-toxic to children and pets and eco-friendly.
- Can be applied directly to sheets and mattresses.
Cons:
- Strong fragrance
- No residual effect
Where to buy
Buyer’s Guide
Now that you know the eight best bed bug sprays, what should you do with this information? In this section, we’ll discuss some important information about bed bug sprays to help you choose the best product to meet your needs.
The most important factors to take into consideration are:
- The spray formulation (natural or chemical)
- Their different modes of action (killing on contact and with a residual effect or with no residual effect)
- Their killing power (if they can kill bed bug eggs and pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs)
- The odor (sprays can be scented or unscented)
Pro tip: Bed bug sprays are only one part of bed bug control. A successful bed bug treatment for your home is a result of a combined effort in which you prevent bed bugs, hire professional assistance, and monitor your home after the treatments.
Professional chemical treatments often require retreatments, and similarly, store-bought bed bug sprays often require the same. Subsequent rounds of spraying are helpful to catch newly hatched eggs and bugs that were hiding in crevices. Consult the label for how often to reapply.
Professional pest control is always recommended, but if you want to try to get rid of them on your own (or want to minimize their presence until your appointment), check out our article “How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs” for more information. You’ll find information on how to use other tools like a vacuum and dryer to help control these pests.
Chemical Sprays vs. Natural Sprays
Chemical sprays are generally the most effective formulations to get rid of bed bugs. The most common classes of pesticides used in chemical sprays include:
- Pyrethroids
- Pyrroles
- Neonicotinoids
- Insect growth regulators
The downside of chemical bed bug sprays, however, is that they are not safe for pets and children, and they should be carefully applied (or left up to the pros to apply). That’s when natural bed bug sprays show up as a solution. Safe for pets and children alike, they often contain:
- Sodium lauryl sulfate
- Essential oils
- Other minimum-risk substances registered under Section 25(b) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
Pro tip: Accidents with children and pets can happen with both chemical and natural bed bug sprays. Following the label directions and storing the items out-of-reach is of utmost importance to prevent any accidents.
Contact Sprays vs. Residual Sprays
Another important aspect to be attentive to when opting for a bed bug spray is the difference between contact sprays, residual sprays, and repellent sprays.
- Contact sprays, as the name suggests, kill bed bugs on contact. They might kill immediately or take some time to kill the insect after it’s been sprayed.
- Residual sprays also kill on contact, but they have a lasting effect that keeps killing bed bugs even after they dry.
- Repellent sprays have a repelling action against bed bugs, keeping them away but not necessarily killing them.
Chemical bed bug sprays can kill bed bugs on contact or have a dual mode of action, killing on contact and providing a residual effect. Most natural sprays, on the other hand, kill bed bugs on contact but stop working once dry.
You might see some natural brands claiming a “residual effect,” but keep in mind that the only natural spray proven to have a residual killing effect is the EcoRaider. Other natural sprays formulated with essential oils can offer a repellent effect for 24 hours after drying out.
As a consumer, remember that contact sprays work only when applied directly to the bed bugs, and therefore won’t work against bed bugs that are hiding. It might be more cost-effective to invest in sprays that also include a residual effect against bed bugs. (Each of the chemical sprays in our list kills on contact and for two to eight weeks after due to a residual effect.)
Killing Power
Recently, bed bugs have developed a resistance to pyrethroids, the most commonly used insecticide against them. And since you don’t know whether you’re unlucky enough to have a resistant strain of bed bugs, make sure the spray kills pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs.
Another crucial aspect is whether the spray kills bed bug eggs. You may kill the adults, but if the eggs are not addressed, soon enough you’ll see new nymphs emerging to come for your blood. So read the product specifications and ensure it kills even bed bugs’ eggs.
Odor
Bed bug sprays are often labeled as unscented or scented with various fragrances (like peppermint). If you have a sensitive nose, keep in mind that even if the product is labeled as unscented, it can still have some kind of odor or smell. If you’re looking for a product with no odor whatsoever, look for the ones labeled as “odorless.”
FAQ About Bed Bug Sprays
What is the Best Bed Bug Repellent for Skin?
At the time of writing, there are no registered bed bug repellents that can be applied to human skin.
What is the Best Bed Bug Killer Powder?
The best bed bug killer powders are desiccant dusts such as diatomaceous earth or other silica-based powders. Boric acid is also popularly used as a powder against bed bugs. However, it is important to note that boric acid is not effective against bed bugs because it needs to be ingested to work.
Here are some recommendations for bed bug powders:
- Rockwell CimeXa Insecticide Dust
- BASF PT Tri-Die Pressurized Dust Insecticide
- Bayer DeltaDust Multi-Use Insecticide Dust
Do All Bed Bug Sprays Have EPA Registration?
No, natural sprays that use minimum-risk ingredients are not obligated to have an EPA registration number. However, all products with non-exempt ingredients must be registered. So for chemical bed bug sprays, an EPA registration is mandatory.
When to Call a Pro
Controlling bed bugs on your own can feel exhausting. A pest control pro can help you out so you’ll have nothing to worry about besides enjoying a bed bug-free home. That’s why Pest Gnome is here to connect you with trusted local pros. Get in touch with a pest control expert today.
Additional sources:
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