The Best Mosquito Yard Sprays and Foggers of 2024

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While you may want your yard to be a tranquil place for kids or pets to play while you prepare meals on the grill or enjoy a morning coffee, mosquitoes and other flying pests can quickly take over a yard, forcing you inside. 

Eliminating and preventing these pests can be accomplished with the best mosquito yard spray or fogger. Mosquito yard sprays are designed for concentrated pest extermination, while foggers apply a low volume pesticide or repellent over a larger area, allowing you to treat the entire yard. Beyond the size of the area, the best mosquito solution for a home also can depend on the severity and frequency of the infestation. A spray may be easier to use, but a fogger can be refilled as many times as necessary. 

With that in mind, our top pick is the Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Mosquito Spray. We like its natural formula, wide coverage area, and ease of application thanks to its built-in attachment that can spray for mosquitoes in yard spaces of up to 5,000 square feet. However, all of our selected products were vetted for effectiveness and reliability. 

This guide includes important factors to consider when deciding on mosquito pest control solutions. Below is a list of some of the best mosquito yard sprays that can help control mosquito infestations in and around a home. 

1. BEST OVERALL YARD SPRAY: Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Mosquito Spray
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2. BEST OVERALL FOGGER: Cutter Backyard Bug Control Outdoor Fogger
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate
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4. BEST ECO-FRIENDLY: EcoSmart Mosquito Fogger Aerosol Spray Can
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5. BEST FOR DAY USE: Ortho Home Defense Backyard Mosquito Area Fogger
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6. BEST ELECTRIC FOGGER: SuperHandy Corded Backpack Mist Fogger
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7. BEST THERMAL FOGGER: Tomahawk Turbo Boosted Backpack Mosquito Fogger
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8. BEST FOR HOMES WITH PETS: Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Yard and Kennel Spray 
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How We Chose the Best Mosquito Yard Sprays and Foggers

To suit the needs of many users, these mosquito control yard sprays and foggers have been handpicked and cover a number of common application methods to deal with mosquito problems in yards of all sizes. Whether you prefer to keep a small mosquito barrier around your patio or spray an entire acre of land, there’s an option included to get the job done. 

We concentrated the coverage of hose sprays and aerosol canisters because their accessibility, light weight, and extreme ease of use suit most household needs. That said, we did select our favorite refillable machines for larger applications, focusing on options supported by backpack designs to increase mobility (and coverage) as well as decrease strain on the body. 

Just as important, we favor a few products that target mosquitoes and other flying insects but without negative consequences for the plants and ecosystem. Two non-toxic options with plant-based active ingredients will not harm the environment—especially ideal for homeowners who have children and pets in the yard frequently.

Our Top Picks

These top picks products are among the best mosquito yard sprays and foggers for treating irritating mosquito infestations. These products were chosen based on the coverage and active ingredients as well as the power output and input, overall product efficacy, and other important considerations mentioned later. 

Best Overall Yard Spray

Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Mosquito Spray

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Product Specs

• Type: Spray
• Ingredients: Cedarwood oil, sesame oil, and sodium lauryl sulfate 
• Compatible pests: Mosquitos, ants, and ticks 
• Coverage area: 5,000 square feet 

Pros

• Uses nontoxic essential oils instead of chemicals for the eco-conscious consumer 
• Attaches to a garden hose for easy spray application in yards of up to 5,000 square feet 
• Kills mosquitoes, ticks, and ants to keep outdoor areas safe for children and pets 

Cons

• A little bulky to hold with the garden hose; may cause some fatigue in large-scale applications
• Made for outdoor use only; not as versatile as some comparable options 

Wondercide mosquito yard spray is effective at treating up to 5,000 square feet with a full 32-ounce bottle when used according to the manufacturer’s directions. This natural mosquito spray for yards is safe to use around kids and pets, making it a great option for parents and pet owners as well as for grandparents and others who enjoy outside visits with children.

Its plant-based formula is made with three main active ingredients, including cedarwood oil, sesame oil, and sodium lauryl sulfate to keep mosquitos at bay. The combination kills at least 98 percent of common yard pests—mosquitoes, sure, but also ants and ticks—and repels living pests to prevent new infestations. The ready-to-use spray connects to the garden hose to the hose-end sprayer for optimal results, and refills can be mixed up in the user-friendly bottle using the Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Concentrate.

Get the Wondercide mosquito yard spray at Amazon.

Best Overall Fogger

Cutter Backyard Bug Control Outdoor Fogger

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Product Specs

• Type: Fogger
• Ingredients: Tetramethrin and phenothrin
• Compatible pests: Mosquitos, gnats, flies, wasps, moths, and ants
• Coverage area: 1,200 square feet 

Pros

• Classic bug control fogging spray kills mosquitoes, gnats, flying ants, wasps, moths
• 1 can covers up to 1,200 cubic feet per fogging; comes in a 2-pack for larger areas 
• Affordable price point compared to other options available 

Cons

• Only suitable for outdoor use; not as versatile as other yard sprays for mosquitos 
• May need to reapply this fogger a few times to keep insects at bay 
• Made with a chemical composition that may not be ideal for the eco-conscious consumer 

With a total coverage of 1,200 square feet, this Cutter fogger spray is a good option for treating decks, patios, picnic areas, and backyard spaces. The 16-ounce fogger spray treats areas infested with mosquitoes, flies, wasps, and other flying insects for up to 10 hours at a time—ideal for a backyard barbecue or other outdoor party. (It also can be used to kill ants, but it isn’t effective against the carpenter, fire, pharaoh, or harvester ant species.)

The spray contains two common synthetic pyrethrins, known as tetramethrin and phenothrin, which work to kill adults and larval insects by damaging the nervous system, so infestations are destroyed at all maturation levels. Treat the yard or garden as necessary to keep mosquitos at bay, but users will want to avoid spraying an area more than once daily and only during a clear forecast to prevent a buildup of pesticides and potential runoff during rainy weather.

Get the Cutter mosquito fogger at Amazon (2-pack), The Home Depot (1-pack), or Walmart (1-pack).

Best Bang For The Buck

Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate

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Product Specs

• Type: Spray concentrate
• Ingredients: Lambda-cyhalothrin
• Compatible pests: Mosquitos, fleas, ticks, crickets, carpenter ants, harvester ants, beetles, and earwigs 
• Coverage area: 5,000 square feet

Pros

• Suitable for small to large yards of up to 5,000 square feet; kills a wide variety of pests
• Can last up to 12 weeks before any additional applications or insecticides are necessary
• Easily attaches to a garden hose for ready-to-use convenience 

Cons

• Formula can be toxic to bees; avoid spraying near flowers or known hives 

Mosquito repellent yard spray, like this Spectrum spray, is intended for treating small- to medium-size yards and for precision targeting of nesting areas. The bottle contains 32 ounces of concentrated pesticide. To mix, simply connect the garden hose to the hose end of the Spectrum nozzle and spray; this process mixes the solution, eliminating worry about getting the proper mixture ratio before beginning treatment.

This mosquito yard spray is made with lambda-cyhalothrin for treating a range of insect infestations, including mosquitoes, ants, fleas, crickets, beetles, and earwigs. The full bottle can be used to spray yards for mosquitoes on up to 5,000 square feet of lawn and garden, helping to protect nearby infestation sites for up to 12 weeks.

Get the Cutter mosquito yard spray at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Eco-friendly

EcoSmart Mosquito Fogger Aerosol Spray Can

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Product Specs

• Type: Spray 
• Ingredients: Water, geraniol, rosemary oil, peppermint oil, white mineral oil, wintergreen oil, polyglyceryl oleate, lecithins, and nitrogen 
• Compatible pests: Flies and mosquitos
• Coverage area: Unlisted 

Pros

• Nontoxic essential oil aerosol spray is safe to use around children and pets 
• Leaves behind a nice rosemary and peppermint odor after application 
• Creates a barrier against mosquitoes and other flying insects 

Cons

• Not long lasting, particularly in wind; may need frequent reapplication 
• No coverage area listed for this product; may not cover wide outdoor areas
• Spraying too close to plants can burn the leaves 

Thanks to its nontoxic formula, the EcoSmart mosquito yard spray and fogger can be used in (and out of) homes with pets and young kids. It contains water, white mineral oil, wintergreen oil, polyglyceryl oleate, lecithins, nitrogen, and three other natural active ingredients: geraniol, rosemary oil, and peppermint oil. 

This 14-ounce can of mosquito spray for the yard isn’t intended for treating infestations, though the spray does kill on contact. It’s better used for killing and repelling flies and mosquitoes for a short period of time while users enjoy the outdoors. The spray remains effective for up to 8 hours before it needs to be reapplied.

Get the EcoSmart mosquito fogger at Amazon, Lowe’s (2-pack), The Home Depot (2-pack), or Walmart (2-pack).

Best For Day Use

Ortho Home Defense Backyard Mosquito Area Fogger

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Product Specs

• Type: Fogger 
• Ingredients: Permethrin
• Compatible pests: Mosquitos, gnats, flies, horseflies, houseflies, deerflies, and more 
• Coverage area: 2,000 square feet 

Pros

• Compact and lightweight during the application process; covers up to 2,000 square feet 
• Continues to kill insects for 7 days after the initial application; can be applied on shrubs, bushes, grass, and more 
• Kills a wide variety of insects for complete protection against pests 

Cons

• Not recommended for use around beloved plants or vegetable gardens
• Should be applied using protective gear including eyewear and gloves 

Those in need of a versatile area fogger can rely on the Ortho Home Defense mosquito fogger. This option covers over 2,000 square feet of yard space and gets rid of mosquitos, gnats, flies, horseflies, houseflies, and deerflies. Once applied, this option keeps killing pests for up to 7 days. It is made with permethrin, which is a low-toxin insecticide that can be used near shrubs, grass, bushes, and more. However, this option is not recommended for use around vegetable gardens or beloved plants. 

Get the Ortho mosquito yard spray at Amazon.

Best Electric Fogger

SuperHandy Corded Backpack Mist Fogger

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Product Specs

• Type: Fogger
• Ingredients: N/A
• Compatible pests: Customizable 
• Coverage area: 28,000 square feet 

Pros

• Refillable backpack sprayer is suitable for larger indoor and outdoor spaces
• Sprays up to 20 feet horizontally and 6.5 feet vertically; 2.6-gallon capacity that covers 28,000 square feet 
• Users can adjust the spray nozzle to emit 0- to 50-micron droplets

Cons

• Requires electricity to operate; may require an extension cord or electric generator 
• Pesticide not included with purchase; needs to be selected separately 

This SuperHandy electric fogger is a great value for the price, with a large 2.6-gallon tank to hold the user’s preferred pesticide or any other suitable liquid. The electric pump can push the solution out in a 20-foot horizontal and 6.5-foot vertical spray, covering a significant amount of space in a short period. The fogger comes with multiple spray nozzles to adjust the density of the spray. It also features a backpack carrying system that is designed for comfort and support to make it easier on the user’s muscles and reduce fatigue.

The corded electric fogger needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet to function, which can include a high-quality extension cord or a portable generator. Paired with a generator, it’s a great option for use in open fields and large yards, as it has a maximum coverage of 28,000 square feet. 

Get the SuperHandy mosquito fogger at Amazon or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Best Thermal Fogger

Tomahawk Turbo Boosted Backpack Mosquito Fogger

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Product Specs

• Type: Fogger
• Ingredients: N/A
• Compatible pests: Customizable 
• Coverage area: 43,560 square feet 

Pros

• Gas-powered; capable of mosquito spraying for yards of up to 1 acre in under 30 minutes 
• 40-foot spray capability is suitable for large residential or commercial applications 
• Doesn’t require electricity to operate; relies on a 3.7-gallon gas tank 

Cons

• Loud motor operation volume may disturb neighbors
• Heavier than other backpack units; may cause some fatigue on the user

This heavy-duty fogger is designed for treating fields, schoolyards, farms, and large residential yards, with a maximum coverage of 43,560 square feet when the 3.7-gallon tank is full. Operating on a mixed fuel and oil ratio of 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil, the fogger has a fast dispersal rate that can cover up to 1 acre of land in less than 30 minutes. 

This machine can be a great choice for DIYers who have a large yard or multiple properties, and it’s also suitable for commercial use by pest control professionals. The gas fogger has two backpack straps, making the weight and controls easier to manage while treating mosquito infestations.

Get the Tomahawk mosquito fogger at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best For Homes With Pets

Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Yard and Kennel Spray

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Product Specs

• Type: Spray
• Ingredients: Sodium lauryl phosphate, eugenol, and peppermint oil 
• Compatible pests: Mosquitos, fleas, and ticks 
• Coverage area: 5,000 square feet 

Pros

• Comes with a ready-to-use hose attachment for application in spaces of up to 5,000 square feet 
• Made with a plant-based and natural formula that is safe for children and pets 
• Does not stain any surfaces it is applied to; safe for decks, patios, and walkways 

Cons

• Some users have reported that the packaging can break or warp 
• May need to be reapplied regularly to maintain the compound’s effectiveness

Pets love to be outdoors, but that’s where they’re susceptible to mosquitos, fleas, and ticks. Use the Vet’s Best flea and tick spray to prevent insects from latching onto beloved dogs and cats. This versatile option is made with sodium lauryl phosphate, eugenol, and peppermint oil, which are all eco-friendly and natural for peace of mind. 

Its plant-based compound is capable of covering 5,000 square feet and has an easy-to-use hose attachment sprayer for application. This mosquito and tick spray for yards will not stain any surface and comes ready to use. However, there is no listed time for reapplication. 

Get the Vet’s Best mosquito yard spray at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., or Walmart.

Or, DIY Your Own Mosquito Yard Spray 

Though it is not recommended to make a DIY mosquito fogger, it is possible to make a DIY mosquito spray. Simply combine 15 to 40 drops of essential oils like lemongrass, catnip, citronella, lavender, or geranium with witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, isopropyl alcohol, or white vinegar, or rely on a lemon juice and water-based insecticide. All of the recipes for homemade mosquito repellent can be found in our guide.

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What to Consider When Choosing a Mosquito Yard Spray and Fogger

Before pulling out the citronella candles or calling mosquito control services, it might be worth checking out mosquito yard sprays, which are designed to quickly and effectively treat mosquito infestations. When deciding on which product is best for treating your mosquito situation, consider the coverage of the treatment, the active ingredients of the pesticide, and a few additional factors that are mentioned below.

Types of Yard Sprays and Foggers

Based on the method used to apply the pesticide and the power source for the fogger, mosquito yard sprays and foggers fall into three categories: spray, electric foggers, and thermal foggers. All three types can be used interchangeably, and many users may have both a fogger and a spray that they turn to when mosquitoes begin to appear. 

Sprays

Sprays are a common option for those who are only dealing with a small infestation, though they also are suitable for more precise targeting alongside a broad-treatment fogger or misting system. These products typically contain a concentrated form of pesticide with a range of different active ingredients, each intended to kill mosquitoes and other insects.

These products don’t require premixing or filling like foggers and misters, so spraying yards for mosquitoes can begin immediately. However, these products are not typically reusable, so they can become more expensive in the long run to treat a recurring pest situation.

Electric (or Cold) Foggers

Foggers are designed to disperse a small amount of pesticide over a broad area, helping to ensure maximum coverage. Electric foggers, also known as cold or nonthermal foggers, utilize a series of swirling nozzles within the machine that separate the pesticide, vaporizing it as high-powered air pressure forces the pesticide out of the fogger. These devices can be used inside or outside, though they typically require a direct connection to a power outlet through a power cord, which limits their mobility.

One clear shortcoming limits their versatility for outdoor applications: the power cord. The motors for these machines operate through a direct connection to a power outlet, so the range of application is impacted unless a portable generator is used. When used near an outlet, these devices are much better equipped for long periods of operation because they run out of fuel only if the power goes out.

Thermal Foggers

Powered by propane or gasoline, thermal foggers have a heating element that heats and vaporizes pesticide as it’s pumped out of the fogger, allowing the vapor droplets to spread across the yard for about 5 to 10 minutes.

Due to the high temperatures produced by this fogger, it isn’t advised to treat indoor insect infestations with a thermal fogger. Commonly used by and sold to professional pest extermination companies, these machines are considered commercial devices that usually carry a high price tag. The machine’s power and cordless versatility allows it to disperse a broad application of pesticide. 

These gas-powered machines operate with a finite amount of fuel, so they will need to be refilled regularly to continue working. Also, before storing these foggers for long periods of time, the fuel should be completely emptied.

Types of Pests

Mosquito repellents kill mosquitoes effectively, but some options are also capable of killing pests like gnats, full-grown and larvae fleas and ticks, flies, beetles, ants, wasps, moths, and more. When applying insecticides to yards, gardens, and other outdoor areas, be aware of the potential risks to beneficial insects such as bees. 

Dilution and Coverage

The coverage of mosquito repellents can vary widely because sprays are typically used for precise treatment of a nesting area, while foggers are made for a broad application. Sprays can have coverages ranging from 500 square feet to 5,000 square feet, depending on the amount of spray in the bottle, the dispersal system, and the dilution of the insecticide.

Foggers make it easier to apply a pesticide over a broad area. This allows the entire yard to be treated within an hour, instead of the user having to walk around with a small spray bottle with a universal dilution. Foggers can extend from about 5,000 square feet to more than 30,000 square feet, depending on the size of the fogger, the range of the power cord or fuel, and the amount of pesticide. 

After dispersal, it takes between 5 and 10 minutes for the fine mist to settle, so it’s important to use breathing protection to avoid inhaling airborne pesticide droplets.

Expert advice: In our interview with Jennifer Hankey, founder and CEO of Green Queen, a US-based cleaning and pest control company, she recommends spraying for mosquitoes “at least every three weeks”. She adds that, to prolong effectiveness, “it’s essential to carefully spray breeding areas in your yard. These include bushy, damp areas where mosquitoes rest during the day. Mosquitoes also like to hang out on the underside of broadleaf leaves.”

Active Ingredients

There are many different active ingredients used in yard sprays mosquitos hate and in the pesticides loaded into foggers. These mosquito repellents include sodium lauryl sulfate, lambda-cyhalothrin, gamma-cyhalothrin, permethrin, and various essential oils.

• Sodium lauryl sulfate is a common ingredient in shampoo and detergent, so there isn’t a concern about dangers to pets and kids. However, it’s still a powerful insecticide that kills mosquito larvae and is effective against spiders, gnats, ants, and yellow jackets.
• Lambda-cyhalothrin is a synthetic pyrethroid derived from pyrethrin, which is a naturally occurring insecticide present in chrysanthemums. This active ingredient kills both adults and larvae, quickly preventing infestations.
• Gamma-cyhalothrin is another common synthetic pyrethroid that attacks the central nervous system of adult and larval mosquitoes, destroying the problem at the source while treating the ongoing infestation.
• Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid, though it isn’t as potent as the other two pyrethroids listed. Permethrin is actually more frequently found in repellent products than in pesticides, due to its lower level of toxicity. However, in high enough concentrations, permethrin will act in the same way as other pyrethroids, killing mosquito adults and larvae.
• Essential oils, like peppermint, lemongrass, cedar, and citronella oil, are natural alternatives to chemically based synthetic pyrethroids. In high enough concentrations, these oils act as powerful deterrents to mosquitoes and will kill both adult and larval mosquitoes. The oils are relatively safe for homes with kids and pets, though these natural pesticides are not as effective and do not usually last as long as chemical solutions.

Fuel Type (If Applicable)

Thermal foggers can use propane, gasoline, or a mixture of gas and oil that is similar to the mixture used in gas lawn mowers or string trimmers. 

• Propane-operated foggers are equipped with a port to connect a portable propane tank, like those used for portable propane grills. There isn’t a lot of potential power difference between propane and gasoline, but the ready-to-use compact propane tanks can be simpler.
• Gasoline-operated foggers have a gas tank that needs to be filled before the fogger will operate. After use, it’s advised to empty the tank before storing it for an extended period. While there are more steps involved in setting up and filling this style of fogger, money can be saved on bulk gasoline purchases.
• Gas and oil mixtures are common with larger gas-operated tools and appliances. By incorporating the oil into the gasoline, the entire system can be properly lubricated every time the gas tank is filled and the fogger is operated. The drawback with these machines is that it takes time and effort to properly mix the gas to oil ratio before the fogger can be filled. If you are regularly in a hurry to complete tasks, this may not be the best option.

Ease of Use

It’s a good idea to look for mosquito yard sprays and foggers that come with features that make them easier to use, like adjustable nozzles, backpack straps, and wide-mouth tank openings.

• Hose attachments (especially when combined with a pre-mixed solution) on yard sprays can simplify the application process by removing prep from the equation and delivering the exact amount of mosquito spray necessary.
• Adjustable nozzles allow the user to change the spray density of the fogger or spray can so the amount of pesticide being applied can be increased or decreased. Some products have built-in adjustable nozzles, while others may use interchangeable nozzles to achieve the same results.
• Backpack straps are ideal for carrying a heavy fogger, especially if the user will be treating a large area. The straps allow users to support the weight of the fogger with their entire body, reducing muscle strain and fatigue that can be caused by trying to carry and operate a device that can weigh more than 40 pounds. 
• Wide-mouth tank openings are a simple feature that can save time and money. Foggers need to be filled with a pesticide, so a wide-mouth opening makes it easier to quickly fill the tank. It also makes spills less likely so users aren’t wasting the pesticide or making a mess.

Safety

Safety is a priority whenever dangerous chemicals or machines are involved to ensure that a job can be completed without putting anyone at risk. With this in mind, it’s important to always read and follow the directions for use listed in the product information, on the product container, and on the manufacturer’s website. 

Chemical pesticides can cause adverse symptoms including irritated eyes, rashes, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, shortness of breath, and vomiting. It’s necessary to wear proper eye and breathing protection, and it isn’t a bad idea to wear gloves, long pants, and a shirt with long sleeves as well. Usually, it’s recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to 2 hours—or longer—before using an area that was sprayed. 

FAQs

If you still have questions about whether mosquito yard sprays and foggers are safe around kids and pets or more general questions about how these bug sprays and foggers work, then read on to find the answers to some of these popular queries. 

Q. Are mosquito yard sprays safe around my pets and children?

Safety depends on the type of spray you use and the active ingredient in the spray or fogger. For homes with pets and kids, look for products that specifically state they are safe. These products will typically use concentrated essential oils instead of harmful chemicals.

Q. When is the best time of day to spray the yard for mosquitoes?

For the best results, it’s advised to spray during the cooler hours of the morning or night, when mosquitoes are most active. The rule of thumb is to spray outdoor areas for pests before noon and after 6 pm.

Q. What time of year should I spray for mosquitoes?

The best time of year to spray for mosquitoes depends on where you live. Find out when mosquitoes start emerging around your home so you can be ready to take action against them.

That said, as a general rule, Jennifer Hankey of Green Queen advises that “it helps if you spray as early in the season as possible. It is a lot easier to control 100 mosquitoes than 100,000 mosquitoes!”

Q. What kind of bugs do foggers kill?

It depends on the active ingredient in the fogger, though these products are often used for cockroaches, fleas, mosquitoes, and a range of similar pests. Be aware of any beehives in the area as foggers can kill these beneficial insects as well. 

Q. What chemical is used for mosquito fogging?

There are a variety of different chemicals that can be used in a mosquito fogger, including tetramethrin, phenothrin, malathion, permethrin, and pyrethroids. However, options like the EcoSmart mosquito fogger are made with eco-friendly essential oils like rosemary, peppermint, white mineral, and wintergreen for the chemical-conscious consumer.

Q. Can you use permethrin in a fogger?

Yes, permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that can be used in a fogger. However, not all permethrin products are suitable for foggers, so always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for use before choosing a pesticide or repellent.

 

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