Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.

If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Before picking up a wasp spray totreat your pest issue, consider the size and location of the nest.

Collage of Ortho Home Defense Hornet and Wasp Killer on a green background

The Spruce

They can be sprayed from a safe distance, minimizing your risk of being stung by an angry swarm.

Foaming sprays are ideal for nests that are larger.

Lastly, dust or powder works incredibly well at eliminating wasps from wall cracks or indoor spaces.

Amazon Ortho Home Defense Hornet and Wasp Killer

PHOTO: Amazon

It has a long residual effect that keeps killing wasps that come back to the nest.

Ortho Home Defense works on wasps, hornets,yellow jackets, and mud daubers.

This product is intended for outdoor use only, so it’s not as versatile as other options.

Amazon Raid Wasp and Hornet Killer

PHOTO: Amazon

However, you’re free to use it in an open, well-ventilated area such as a carport.

Be sure to keep it out of the reach of children.

You should use wasp spray at dawn or dusk, the two times that wasps are the least active.

Amazon Hot Shot Wasp & Hornet Killer Spray

PHOTO: Amazon

After spraying a nest, leave it for 24 hours and then remove it.

It kills wasps on contact and provides residual action by killing stragglers that return later.

Keep in mind that this wasp spray is limited to outdoor use.

Amazon Spectracide Pro Wasp and Hornet Killer

PHOTO: Amazon

It should not come in direct contact with food-handling surfaces or vegetation.

Since it is so potent, it should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Its also advisable to wear protective gear during app to avoid any contact with skin or clothing.

Ace Hardware EcoSMART Organic Wasp and Hornet Killer

PHOTO: Ace Hardware

Keep in mind that it is limited to outdoor use, so its not as versatile as other options.

This spray is made from 100 percent organic ingredients, relying on plant oils.

It can also be used to eliminate hornets, yellow jackets, and other flying insects.

Amazon Syngenta 73654 Demand CS Insecticide

PHOTO: Amazon

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider.

Be sure to use caution wherever you apply it.

One eight-ounce bottle can yield up to 40 gallons of solution, so a little goes a long way.

Amazon Bayer Delta Dust Pest Control Insecticide Dust

PHOTO: Amazon

Since this is a concentrated formula, it will need to be mixed with water before use.

You will also need topurchase a sprayer, which is not included, to make it use this product.

Wear protective gearwhen applying this insecticide to avoid skin or eye contact.

It comes in a squeeze bottle with a tapered nozzle at the top for precise utility.

That said, it is an excellent repellent that will prevent wasps from returning and rebuilding their nests.

For best results, we recommend using a spray to kill the wasps first and thenremoving the nest.

To completely eliminate an infestation, look for a wasp spray that can wipe out the entire nest.

If you do not destroy the nest and remove it, wasps will likely return and repopulate.

Safety

Most wasp sprays contain pesticides that can be harmful to humans and pets.

Exposure occurs if a pesticide is inhaled, ingested, or comes into contact with the skin or eyes.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Our Experts:

Permethrin.

National Pesticide Information Center.

http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/PermGen.html

Cypermethrin - National Pesticide Information Center.