Best Homemade Insect Killer (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for an effective and affordable way to get rid of pesky insects in and around your home, then making your own insect killer could be the answer. Not only can it save you money, but it’s also a safer and more environmentally friendly option than using harmful chemicals.

Before making your own insect killer, there are several factors you need to consider. Firstly, you need to identify the type of insects you’re trying to get rid of, as different insects require different ingredients and methods. Secondly, consider the areas where the insects are most commonly found and choose a recipe that will effectively target those areas. Finally, take into account the safety of your family and pets, as some ingredients may be harmful if ingested or come into contact with the skin.

Are you tired of spending money on expensive insect killers that don’t work? Have you ever considered making your own at home? Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s also better for the environment. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some questions to consider: What type of insects are you dealing with? Do you want to use all-natural ingredients or are you okay with chemicals? How important is the safety of your family and pets? By answering these questions, you can find the best homemade insect killer recipe for your needs.

10 Best Homemade Insect Killer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is an effective aerosol spray for killing flying insects with a clean fresh scent.
2
The product is ideal for trapping and eliminating various pests, such as fungus gnats, fruit flies, mosquitoes, and other insects.
3
The product is ideal for catching and killing indoor and outdoor plant insects such as whiteflies, mosquitoes, and fungus gnats.
4
The product is ideal for trapping and killing fruit flies using natural botanical extracts.
5
This product is ideal for killing a variety of insects on plants, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
6
It's an ideal 3-in-1 spray for controlling insects, fungus, and spider mites on indoor and outdoor plants, gardens, and trees.
7
The product is ideal for trapping indoor fruit flies with its built-in window and lure supply.
8
Safer Home Fly Trap is ideal for trapping and eliminating various flying insects indoors, providing up to 400 square feet of protection.
9
The product is ideal for indoor use as an electric insect killer and repellent with a powerful 2800V grid.
10
The product is ideal for quickly killing flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and other flying bugs using natural essential oils.
It is an effective aerosol spray for killing flying insects with a clean fresh scent.
The product is ideal for trapping and eliminating various pests, such as fungus gnats, fruit flies, mosquitoes, and other insects.
The product is ideal for catching and killing indoor and outdoor plant insects such as whiteflies, mosquitoes, and fungus gnats.
The product is ideal for trapping and killing fruit flies using natural botanical extracts.
This product is ideal for killing a variety of insects on plants, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
It's an ideal 3-in-1 spray for controlling insects, fungus, and spider mites on indoor and outdoor plants, gardens, and trees.
The product is ideal for trapping indoor fruit flies with its built-in window and lure supply.
Safer Home Fly Trap is ideal for trapping and eliminating various flying insects indoors, providing up to 400 square feet of protection.
The product is ideal for indoor use as an electric insect killer and repellent with a powerful 2800V grid.
The product is ideal for quickly killing flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and other flying bugs using natural essential oils.

1. Hot Shot Flying Insect Killer3 Aerosol, Clean Fresh Scent, 18.75 Oz

The flying insect killer is an effective solution for controlling houseflies, mosquitoes, and other listed insects. This product is specially designed to kill insects on contact, ensuring that your home is free from pests.

The insect killer is formulated to provide long-lasting protection against mosquitoes and houseflies on non-porous surfaces for up to 4 weeks. This means that you can enjoy a pest-free environment for an extended period.

With a clean fresh scent, the aerosol spray adds a pleasant fragrance to your home, making it more comfortable to live in. Additionally, the water-based formula is safe and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

To use the insect killer, simply spray it in the affected areas, and the product will do the rest. It is an easy-to-use and convenient solution for anyone looking to eliminate flying insects from their home.

2. Bugboss Sticky Traps – Indoor/outdoor Insect Catcher

The Yellow Sticky Trap is an ideal solution for plant owners facing flying insect problems. Its bright color attracts a variety of flying insects, while the high-quality glue prevents their escape. Specifically designed for flying plant pests, this Fungus Pest Insect Catcher works wonders for both outdoor and indoor potted plants.

Using the Yellow Sticky Trap is effortless. Its sharp bottom can be inserted directly into the soil, eliminating the need for tying ropes or hooks. The trap's design ensures that it's safe and non-toxic, using only bright colors and glue to catch pests. This makes it a suitable choice for those who are environmentally conscious and concerned about their pets' and family's safety.

It's essential to note that in the summer, the rising temperatures may cause the glue to melt, resulting in the fruit fly paper traps sticking together. To avoid this, it's recommended to store this bug killer trap in the refrigerator for a while before using it. Additionally, it's important to carefully peel the protective film to avoid any rupture.

The Yellow Sticky Trap is built to last. The sticky bug traps paper has a very strong adhesive, making it UV-resistant and waterproof. There is no need to replace the houseplant insect catcher until it's fully covered with bugs.

3. Yellow Sticky Trap For Indoor/outdoor Insects.

Introducing the perfect solution for controlling flying insects in your household or garden – the Natural Control Sticky Traps. With its bright yellow color and strong adhesive, this product is specifically designed to effectively lure in and trap pesky insects, ultimately breaking their breeding cycle.

The Natural Control Sticky Traps come in a variety of cute and convenient shapes, including a cat, bird, tulip, banyan, sunflower, butterfly, and succulent. These small shapes make it easy to use the traps in small potted plants without taking up too much space.

Using the Natural Control Sticky Traps is simple and hassle-free. All you have to do is peel off the protective layer and insert it in the plant pot. The traps are suitable for houseplants, home kitchens, or gardens, providing you with a versatile solution for any insect infestation.

One of the key benefits of the Natural Control Sticky Traps is their longevity. With solid adhesive on both sides, they are waterproof and can last until they are fully covered with bugs. This means you don't have to replace them constantly, saving you time and money in the long run.

Each package of the Natural Control Sticky Traps comes with 12 traps and a convenient digging tool. The tool shovel can be used to loosen soil, making it easier to set up the traps.

4. Stem Kills Fruit Fly Trap: Fruit Fly Catcher With Botanical Extracts, 5.4 Fl Oz (Pack Of 1)

Introducing the Fruit Fly Killer Trap, an innovative solution for pesky fruit flies that can quickly invade your home. This trap is formulated with powerful botanical extracts that effectively eliminate fruit flies while remaining safe for use around people and pets, when used according to the instructions.

This fly trap has been thoroughly tested by entomologists to ensure its effectiveness and quality. The Fruit Fly Killer Trap contains no added dyes, fragrances, or harsh chemical odors, making it a great choice for those who are sensitive to strong scents.

Once activated, the disposable trap starts working immediately, attracting and trapping fruit flies for up to 21 days. Its unique design is rooted in nature and optimized by science to provide a highly effective solution to the problem of fruit flies in your home.

The Fruit Fly Killer Trap is easy to use and provides a discreet and effective solution to fruit fly infestations. Its compact design allows it to be placed in discreet locations, such as on kitchen counters and in pantries, without being noticed.

Say goodbye to pesky fruit flies with the Fruit Fly Killer Trap. This product is a must-have for those looking for a natural, safe, and effective solution to fruit fly infestations.

5. Organic Insecticidal Soap – Kills Plant Pests!

Protect your plants from harmful insect infestations with this highly effective insecticide spray. This product is specially designed to kill a variety of soft-bodied insect pests, including aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, leafhoppers, spider mites, and many more. It is gentle on most plants, making it ideal for use on flowers, herbs, vegetables, houseplants, lawns, trees, shrubs, and more.

The active ingredient in this spray is potassium salts of fatty acids, which work by weakening the insects' outer shell and dehydrating them on contact. It is a fast-acting formula that provides instant relief to your plants from insect damage. You can use it throughout the season, starting at the first sign of damage, and every 5-7 days while insects are present. This product can be used up until the day of harvest, giving you peace of mind that your plants will remain healthy and insect-free.

This spray is OMRI Listed and compliant for use in organic gardening, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer to use natural and organic products. You can use it without worry, knowing that it is safe for you, your plants, and the environment. Additionally, the 16 oz bottle of concentrate makes up to 6 gallons of solution, making it a cost-effective solution for both small and large-scale gardening needs. Simply mix it with water as directed and spray it on your plants for optimal results.

6. Plant Defender: All-In-One 24oz Spray

Introducing the Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray, an effective solution to protect your garden from common plant diseases and soft-bodied insects. This formula is a synergistic blend of botanical oils that works as an insecticide, miticide, and fungicide.

The Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray is capable of killing and repelling various soft-bodied insects, including spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, leaf rollers, and scale. It also controls and prevents common plant diseases such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight, canker, black spot, and leaf spot. This versatile spray is perfect for those looking for a complete solution to keep their garden healthy and thriving.

Moreover, the Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray is safe for people, pets, and the environment. It is formulated with safe and natural ingredients such as thyme oil, rosemary oil, clove oil, and peppermint oil. This formula is also OMRI Listed, making it suitable for organic gardening. With Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray, you can protect your garden without compromising your health or the environment.

Earth’s Ally is committed to protecting our pollinators, and this formula is proven to be bee safe. Every product is independently tested to ensure that it is safe for the bee population. The Earth’s Ally 3-in-1 Plant Spray is a reliable solution that will keep your garden healthy and thriving while protecting our pollinators.

7. Terro T2502 Ready-To-Use Indoor Fruit Fly Trap With Built In Window – 2 Traps + 90 Day Lure Supply

This fruit fly trap is a fast-acting solution to eradicate fruit fly infestations. It works quickly and effectively to decrease the fruit fly population in just a few days. The ready-to-use, non-staining lure attracts adult fruit flies, which are then trapped and eliminated.

This product features a long-lasting lure that remains effective for up to 45 days. This means you can enjoy up to 90 days of protection against fruit fly infestation.

The discreet design of the trap is an added bonus. It has an attractive apple shape that will fit in seamlessly with any kitchen decor. It even blends in with the fruit that these pesky pests love.

The built-in window on each trap allows for easy monitoring of catches and lure levels. This way, you can easily keep track of how many fruit flies have been caught and when it's time to replace the trap.

To maximize the effectiveness of the trap, it is best to place it near fruit fly breeding areas. These areas may include fruit bowls, trash cans, kitchen counters and sinks, and other locations where fruit is stored. By placing the trap near these common breeding sites, you can effectively locate and eliminate the source of the infestation.

8. Indoor Fly Protection With Safer Home

Looking for an effective and safe solution to get rid of pesky flying insects in your home? Look no further than this fly trap! With its powerful UV LED light, it immediately attracts and traps flies, fruit flies, moths, gnats, and other flying insects. This makes it perfect for protecting large rooms, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens.

The fly trap is designed with your home in mind, making it a great choice for families with children and pets. Its discreet and trendy design blends in seamlessly with any décor, and the trapped insects are hidden on the back of the glue card, so there's no mess or cleanup required.

Using the fly trap is incredibly easy – simply insert a glue card and plug the trap in. The trap rotates to fit any indoor outlet, making it a versatile solution for any room in your home. Plus, refill glue cards are available for continued insect protection, making it a cost-effective choice for long-term use.

9. Liba Bug Zapper Pro: Powerful Indoor Killer.

The Liba Indoor Zapper is the perfect solution for those who want to get rid of flying nuisances in their home. Using two specially designed lightbulbs, this zapper attracts and eliminates any pesky flying insects in your home without the use of any harmful chemicals.

Safety is a top priority with the Liba zapper, which comes equipped with a safety screen to prevent small fingers from getting inside the device. Additionally, each zapper comes with two replacement bulbs in case a replacement is needed. The zapper has an easy on and off switch located at the top right and a five-foot cord for convenience and distance.

This indoor zapper is incredibly easy to set up. It comes with a chain so you can hang it anywhere on a hook or place it atop any countertop, table, or even the floor in problem areas. Typically, hanging it high is recommended as that is where most flying nuisances tend to congregate. The zapper is safe and secure to use in hospitals, workplace areas, commercial spaces, restaurants, kitchens, warehouses and retail stores. However, it is not recommended for outdoor use as it is not waterproof or water-resistant.

Keeping your home free of flying insects has never been easier or more convenient with the Liba zapper. Each zapper has a removable tray for easy cleaning of the zapped insects, making maintenance a breeze.

To ensure that your zapper lasts a long time, two bonus light bulbs are included with every purchase. Once the bulbs have burned out, simply unplug the unit, wait a few hours to ensure the electrical current and heat from the bulb has subsided, and swap them out with the two new bulbs provided.

10. Essential Insect Killer – Pet Safe Spray

Looking for an effective and safe solution to pesky flying bugs? Look no further than this plant-powered aerosol spray. With proven quick-kill and fast-knockdown capabilities, this spray can take care of over 20 different types of flying bugs in no time.

Not only is this spray effective, but it is also versatile and safe for use both indoors and outdoors. Use it in your kitchen, dining room, porch, patio, deck, yard, playscape, garage, and more to protect your living spaces from unwanted bugs.

Worried about using a bug spray around your kids and pets? No problem! This spray is made with natural essential oils of lemongrass and geraniol, making it safe for use around your loved ones when used as directed.

Unlike many other bug sprays on the market, this spray is plant-powered and contains no nasty chemicals or artificial colors and fragrances. Plus, it's cruelty-free!

Using this spray is easy and convenient, and it's made right here in the USA with plant-based active ingredients. Don't let bugs take over your living spaces – try this eco-conscious solution today.

Best Homemade Insect Killer FAQs

Are there any homemade insect killers that are environmentally friendly?

Yes, there are several homemade insect killers that are environmentally friendly and safe to use around people and pets. Here are a few examples:

1. Soap and water solution: Mix a few drops of dish soap with water and spray the solution directly onto insects. The soap will break down the insects' outer layer and kill them.

2. Essential oil spray: Mix 10-20 drops of essential oil (such as peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil) with water and spray the solution onto insects. The strong scent of the oil will repel insects and can also kill them on contact.

3. Diatomaceous earth: This is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. Sprinkle it around areas where insects are present (such as ant hills or near doorways) to kill them. The powder works by drying out the insects' exoskeletons.

4. Vinegar: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution directly onto insects. The strong smell of vinegar will repel insects and can also kill them on contact.

It's important to note that while these homemade insect killers are safe for people and pets, they can still harm beneficial insects such as bees and ladybugs. Use them sparingly and only when necessary.

Are there any natural ingredients that are effective at killing insects?

Yes, there are several natural ingredients that can effectively kill insects. One of the most commonly used natural insecticides is neem oil. It is derived from the neem tree and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including insect infestations. Neem oil contains a compound called azadirachtin which disrupts the insect's hormonal balance, causing it to stop feeding and eventually die. Another effective natural ingredient is diatomaceous earth. This is a powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. When insects come into contact with diatomaceous earth, the sharp edges of the particles pierce their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die. Essential oils such as peppermint, clove, and eucalyptus have also been found to have insecticidal properties. These oils can be mixed with water and sprayed directly onto insects or used in diffusers to repel them. Overall, natural insecticides can be a safe and effective alternative to chemical pesticides.

Can I make a homemade insect killer that is also a repellent?

Yes, you can make a homemade insect killer that also works as a repellent. There are several natural ingredients that can be used to repel and kill insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and ants. One effective recipe includes mixing equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle, along with a few drops of essential oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil. This solution can be sprayed directly on insects or surfaces where they are likely to land. Another option is to mix baking soda and sugar in equal parts and sprinkle it around areas where insects are present. The sugar attracts them, while the baking soda kills them. Additionally, planting certain herbs such as citronella, lavender, and basil around your home and patio can help repel insects. It's important to note that while these homemade remedies can be effective, they may not work as well as commercial insecticides and should be used with caution.

Can I use essential oils to make a homemade insect killer?

Yes, essential oils can be used to make a homemade insect killer. There are many essential oils that are known to repel or kill insects, such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, and citronella. To make a homemade insect killer using essential oils, you can mix a few drops of your chosen oil with water and a bit of dish soap in a spray bottle. The dish soap will help the essential oil mix with the water and will also help the spray stick to the insects. Shake the bottle well before using and spray directly on insects or around areas where insects are common, such as doors, windows, and outdoor seating areas. However, it's important to note that essential oils can be harmful to pets and children if ingested or applied directly to the skin, so it's important to use caution and keep the spray out of reach of children and pets.

How can I make a homemade insect killer that is safe for pets and children?

There are a few homemade insect killer solutions that are safe for pets and children. One option is to mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle and add a few drops of essential oils like peppermint or lemon. This solution can be sprayed directly on insects or around areas where they are present. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of dish soap with a quart of water and add a few drops of essential oils. This solution can also be sprayed directly on insects or around areas where they are present. Additionally, using diatomaceous earth, which is a natural powder made from fossilized algae, can be effective in killing insects like ants, fleas, and cockroaches without harming pets or children. Simply sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around areas where insects are present. Remember to always test a small area first and keep pets and children away from the treated area until it has dried.

How long does a homemade insect killer last before needing to be reapplied?

The duration of effectiveness of a homemade insect killer can vary depending on the ingredients used and the concentration of those ingredients. In general, most homemade insect killers will need to be reapplied every few days to maintain their effectiveness. Some natural ingredients such as vinegar or essential oils may only last a few hours before needing to be reapplied, while others such as garlic or chili powder may last several days. It is important to note that homemade insect killers may not be as effective as commercial insecticides, so it may be necessary to apply them more frequently or use them in conjunction with other pest control methods. Additionally, it is important to follow safety precautions when using any insecticide, including homemade ones, to avoid harm to yourself or others.

How should I apply a homemade insect killer to get the best results?

When applying a homemade insect killer, it's important to follow specific steps to ensure the best results. Here are some tips to help you apply your homemade insect killer effectively:

1. Identify the area where the insects are most concentrated and apply the insecticide there. This will help to focus the treatment where it is most needed.

2. Follow the instructions of the recipe carefully, mixing the ingredients in the right proportion. This will ensure that the insecticide is potent enough to kill the insects.

3. Use protective gear like gloves, masks, and goggles when applying the insecticide. This will protect you from any harmful chemicals or reactions.

4. Apply the insecticide during the early morning or late evening when the insects are most active. This will ensure that the insects come in contact with the insecticide and are killed.

5. Apply the insecticide directly onto the insects or their breeding grounds for better results.

Remember to always be cautious when applying any insecticide, and if you are not confident or do not have experience, it's best to seek the help of a professional.

Is a homemade insect killer effective against flies and mosquitoes?

Homemade insect killers can be effective against flies and mosquitoes to some extent, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the ingredients used and the concentration of the solution. Some common ingredients used in homemade insect killers are vinegar, essential oils, and dish soap. Vinegar and essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint are known to repel insects, while dish soap can help to suffocate them. However, it is important to note that homemade insect killers may not be as potent as commercially available insecticides, and may not eliminate all the insects in your home or yard. Additionally, some homemade insecticides can be harmful to pets or children if ingested, so it is important to use them with caution and keep them out of reach. In conclusion, homemade insect killers can be a natural and cost-effective way to control flies and mosquitoes, but they may not provide complete eradication and should be used with care.

What are the best ingredients for a homemade insect killer?

There are several natural ingredients that can be used to make an effective homemade insect killer. One such ingredient is vinegar. Vinegar contains acetic acid, which is toxic to insects. To make a vinegar-based insect killer, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and add a few drops of dish soap. Shake the bottle well before use and spray directly on insects or on areas where insects are present.

Another effective ingredient for a homemade insect killer is essential oils. Essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil have insecticidal properties and can be mixed with water and used as a spray. To make a homemade essential oil insect killer, mix 10-20 drops of your desired essential oil with one cup of water and spray directly on insects or on areas where insects are present.

Lastly, diatomaceous earth is a natural ingredient that can be used to kill insects. Diatomaceous earth is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms and works by dehydrating insects. Simply sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth in areas where insects are present, such as around windows and doors, and the insects will come into contact with it and eventually die.

What is the best homemade insect killer for ants?

One effective homemade insect killer for ants is a solution of vinegar and water. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution directly on the ants or on their trails. The strong smell of the vinegar will disrupt their communication and deter them from returning. Another option is to mix borax and sugar to create a bait that the ants will take back to their nest, ultimately killing the entire colony. Mix 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 tablespoons of borax, and 1 1/2 cups of warm water in a container until the sugar and borax are dissolved. Soak cotton balls in the solution and place them in areas where ants are commonly seen. It is important to note that these methods may not be effective for all types of ants and infestations, and in some cases, it may be necessary to seek professional pest control services.

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