What Is The Difference Between Insecticide and Pest Repellent?
When it comes to insecticides and pest repellents, there are a few differences. The main difference between the two is rather simple to explain. Insecticides are used to kill many different types of insects that are considered pests upon contact. Pest repellents, on the other hand, are used to keep several different types of pests away from property and gardens.
These pests can include insects, rodents, and a wide range of other animals. We will go into further detail about what types of pests both insecticides and pest repellents are used for below.
Today we are going to compare and contrast the differences between insecticide and pest repellent. These agents are used for many different applications, and each is a little different from the other. Below we will dive deeper into these chemicals and learn how they help us control pests.
What Is Insecticide Used For?
Insecticides are used to kill insects in several different industries. The agriculture industry uses the most insecticides followed by the medical industry and the industrial industry. Insecticides are credited for the boost in agriculture production over the last 100 years. These chemicals have helped farmers raise more crops, which helps to feed the growing world’s population.
What Is Pest Repellent Used For?
Now let’s talk about pest repellents. These chemicals have a special use that is very helpful to humans. Pest repellent is used to keep bugs, rodents, and other animals out of our homes.
They are also used to help protect home gardens and lawns. Pest repellents are often used to keep deer from eating crops and other plants. These agents are also used on our skin to help prevent dangerous illnesses that are carried by biting insects such as mosquitoes.
How Effective Is Insecticide?
If used properly insecticide is very effective in killing many different types of insects. When sprayed on crops, it will help cut down on crop damage and it can help increase crop yield.
When used on the home lawn it can be effective in killing many insects that damage grass. When applied in a commercial building, it can be highly effective in killing roaches and other pests that can cause damage.
How Effective Is Pest Repellent?
Pest repellent can be effective but it is not as effective as an insecticide. However, there are many areas that insecticides can be harmful to humans.
When this is a factor, pest repellents are often used. For example, bug sprays that are used to keep away stinging pests such as flies and mosquitoes are used in place of insecticides. Most if not all insecticides are not used in direct contact with human skin.
How Does Insecticide Work?
Insecticide works by killing adult insects along with their larvae and eggs. Some insecticides are used to kill on contact while others are long-lasting and can demobilize insects. Many of the insecticides used on crops can both kill on contact and can demobilize insects for a period of months.
How Does Pest Repellent Work?
Unlike insecticides that kill insects on contact, pest repellents work to keep pests away. These repellents often contain chemicals that most insects can’t stand to be around. Many organic pest repellents use plant-based essential oils to keep insects and other animals at bay.
These are great for using inside of the home and will help keep your family safe while being pest-free.
When Should You Use Insecticide?
You should only use insecticide when there is no direct contact with humans. Insecticides should never be used directly on the skin or any surface that is used for food preparation or production. It should not be used on countertops or inside of food pantries.
Also, you should avoid using insecticides near pets or their food or water source. Some insecticides can be used in the home if directions are properly followed.
Most insecticides are used along the baseboard of the home. For outside purposes, insecticides can be used in the garden, on field crops, on trees, and lawns. An insecticide is a great way to keep unwanted pests from damaging your property.
When Should You Use Pest Repellent?
Pest repellent should be used when you or a family member is going to be outside. These repellents can keep your family safe from biting insects such as ticks, mosquitoes, and flies. Pest repellents can be used to keep away pests such as rodents, deer, and insects.
In these applications, you will use pest repellents in your home, on your lawn, and in your garden. Many pest repellents are all-natural and are not harmful to humans, animals, or the environment.
Is Insecticide Safe?
As we mentioned above insecticide can be safe if used properly. Before using any product that contains insecticide make sure to read the entire label.
Keep in mind that insecticides can be harmful to animals and humans. This why most people choose to use alternative methods of pest control inside of the home.
In a household that has small children and pets, you may want to avoid using harsh pesticides and go with the alternative.
Is Pest Repellent Safe?
While most pest repellents are safe, you should always take caution when using them. Always read the instruction on the product label. Many pest repellents are made from natural plant-based ingredients and are safe to use inside and outside the home.
Which Is Best Insecticide Or Pest Repellent?
Both insecticides and pest repellents have their own unique purpose. This makes them good for different things. For example, if you are trying to cover a lot of ground and protect crops from insect damage, insecticides are much better than pest repellents.
On the other hand, when you are trying to protect yourself from biting insects, pest repellent would be the safest and best option.
Below you will find a helpful list of different types or brands of pest repellents and pesticides. Each of these brands is helpful to control unwanted pests. Remember to always read the product label before using any one of these brands. Doing so will keep you and your family safe!
Types of Pest Repellents For Mosquitoes and Biting Insects
- Off Deep Woods Sportsman 2: One of the best pest repellents on the market today Off Deep Woods Sportsman 2 has been around for a long time. This repellent is great for use in the backyard and it works wonders in the forest. Many hunters use this product with great results.
- Cutter Backwoods Unscented: Another great pest repellent is Cutter Backwoods Unscented. This product will keep the bugs away for many hours while you enjoy the outdoors.
- Natrapel 8-Hour with Picaridin: This bug spray is proven to keep pests away for up to 8-hours. While it is not as popular as some other brands, it does a great job.
Types of Pest Repellents For Deer
- I Must Garden Deer Repellent: If you are looking to keep deer out of your yard, I Must Garden Deer Repellent is your best bet! This pest repellent lasts for a very long time and will keep deer from destroying your crops.
- Bobbex Deer Repellent: This deer repellent is highly effective and will keep your lawn and garden free from deer. It has a strong odor that deer simply can’t stand. This product comes in a wide range of different sizes.
Types of Pesticides For Fire Ants
- Martin’s Surrender: This ant pesticide comes in an easy to use shakeable container. It is highly effective in killing ants and can be directly applied to the mound. Many people highly recommend this product because it is very potent and fast-acting.
- Scotts Snap Fire Ant Killer: This fast-acting ant killer will get rid of many different types of ants, including fire ants. It works in as little as 12 hours and lasts for up to 4 months.
- Advion Fire Ant Bait: Last but certainly not least we have Advion Fire Ant Bait. This product can be used on the lawn or in the garden to get rid of ants. It works to destroy the colony by killing the queen.
Types of Pesticides For Spiders, Roaches, and Other Household Pests
- Raid House and Garden Bug Spray: This pesticide has been around for many years and trusted by lots of people. It kills on contact and also kills pests for up to weeks after being used.
- Ortho 0196710 Home Defense MAX 1-Gallon Insect Killer Spray: One of the best all-around pesticides, this product can be used both inside and outside. It contains powerful ingredients that will kill on contact but it also lasts for many months. The product is a great value for the money.
Types of Pesticides For Aphids
- Sevin Dust: If aphids are eating your flowers or are destroying your veggie garden, a coating of Sevin Dust will help get rid of them. This pesticide has been used for decades and is one of the most effective products out there. It not only kills aphids but a whole list of other pests.
Conclusion
As you can see, these pesticides both have their uses. They are equally effective and if used properly very safe. Always keep in mind that you should use caution when using any of these chemicals.