Indoor Insect Sprays: Safe Use and Common Mistakes

Household sprays are convenient, but easy to misuse.

Avoid these mistakes.

The short answer

Use sprays only as labelled, in small amounts, with children, pets and food kept away, windows open, and no flames nearby. Common mistakes include spraying near food, overusing, spraying people or pets, using outdoor sprays indoors, and skipping ventilation.

Safe use

1. Read the label.
2. Cover food and utensils.
3. Keep people and pets out.
4. Spray as directed, not more.
5. Ventilate and wash hands.

Common mistakes

• Spraying near food or cooking surfaces.
• Using too much.
• Using outdoor products indoors.
• Spraying in closed rooms.
• Storing within reach.

Consider

Baits, traps and sealing can reduce the need for sprays.

When to call a professional

If the problem is widespread, keeps returning or you are unsure what you are dealing with, a professional inspection will save time and avoid wasted effort.

Frequently asked questions

Do sprays kill eggs?

Usually not.

Can I spray beds?

Only if the label permits; better to ask a professional.

How often?

Not more than directed.

Alternatives?

Baits, traps and proofing.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on pest control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full pest control guide for Bangalore.