Bug Sprays
Bug sprays (otherwise known as insect sprays, fly sprays or knock down sprays) contain insecticides. Unlike mosquito repellent sprays for putting on skin, which have a deterrent effect and ward mosquitoes off, insecticide sprays actually clear rooms of mosquitoes by knocking them down and killing them outright.
Please note, insecticide-containing bug sprays also kill other stinging insects such as wasps, and harmless insects like beetles and moths, which may be unnecessary. Consider using a mosquito repellent instead.
Pyrethroid and Pyrethrum Bug Sprays
Bug sprays usually come in aerosol cans and contain synthetic chemicals such tetramethrin, allethrin and permethrin (which are pyrethroids).
Bio Kybosh is an example of an insecticide room spray that contains tetramethrin.
Many people are not keen on such chemicals, therefore Prevent Room Spray may be a suitable compromise. While Prevent does clear rooms of insects, its active ingredient is natural pyrethrum from the flowers of African Chrysanthemums. Prevent has the added advantage in that it can also be used safely as an insect repellent on the skin.
How to Use Bug Sprays
Bug sprays can be used to spray insects individually in order to kill them, or sprayed directly into the atmosphere. The mist from the insecticide spray hangs in the air and mosquitoes and other flying insects are killed when they fly through it.
It is a good idea to use a bug spray to clear the room of mosquitoes before going to bed.
For maximum effectiveness, doors and windows should be kept closed after spraying the room, especially at night when mosquitoes are most likely to bite. This will kill any mosquitoes that are currently lurking, and prevent any new ones from entering the room.
Pay attention to the recommended frequency with which bug spraying should be repeated, as each spraying will provide a maximum number of hours of protection.
Safety when Spraying Insecticides
It is important to read instructions on bug spray labels and follow them carefully, because chemicals in insecticide sprays can be harmful to humans and animals.
Before spraying insecticides, make sure animals and birds are removed from the room and that fish tanks are covered.
Insecticide bug sprays should be directed away from the face, skin and clothes, and the spray must not be inhaled or allowed around food or any equipment used to prepare or eat food. Hands should be washed after use.
Avoid spraying insecticides on walls, furniture and materials in case of staining, and do not use near naked flames or other heat sources.
Keep bug sprays out of the reach of children and away from animals.
Remember, bug sprays will kill other insects in addition to mosquitoes, which may not be desirable.