Control of household insect pests is dependent on two factors: a knowledge of the pests and their habits, and the selection of the proper management strategies. Using insecticides is not your only choice; however, if you do choose to use them, it is important that you thoroughly understand the different methods of application, limitations, and hazards.

Most insecticides are available in several formulations, each with its own use in and around the house. Those discussed here are the more common formulations—the ways in which they are packaged for sale and subsequent use by the consumer. This information is not meant to replace information given on insecticide containers; always read the label for specific use instructions.

Emulsifiable Concentrates
Emulsifiable concentrates, or ECs, are liquids. They must be mixed with water, turning it milky (the emulsion). Apply them outdoors both to plants and around foundations.

Be careful when applying ECs to young, tender flowers and shrubs for they may injure these plants. In concentrated form, emulsifiable concentrates are dangerous if spilled on clothing and skin.

Use a mask and protective clothing while spraying, especially if applying over a long period of time. Launder contaminated clothing separately and then thoroughly rinse out the washing machine.

Solutions
Solutions are also liquids. They differ from emulsions in that they come ready to use. They are made with refined (deodorized) kerosene or similar materials, plus an insecticide.

Use solutions indoors to control household insects. Do not apply to plants, for they may cause severe damage. Solutions are dangerous if spilled on clothing and skin. Immediately change clothing, and launder the contaminated clothing separately and then thoroughly rinse out the washing machine.

For other instructions, see emulsifiable concentrates above. Since deodorized kerosene is difficult to obtain in small quantities today, most insecticides are ECs.

Wettable Powders
These are similar to dusts (see below), but they contain a higher percentage of chemicals and are mixed with water and applied as sprays. The spray is seldom used indoors but is effective when applied outdoors. Avoid breathing or getting the powder or spray on the skin. Use a mask and protective clothing, especially if applying over a long period of time.

Dusts
Dusts are dry powders that normally contain a lower percentage of insecticide than wettable powders. They are used as purchased both indoors and outdoors. They are especially suited to treatment in cracks and crevices, wall voids, and other seldom disturbed areas. They lose much of their effectiveness when exposed to moisture because of their tendency to form lumps.

Aerosols & Foggers
Aerosols and foggers are liquids held under pressure in a container. When released, usually by pressing a button or trigger, some form a gas, others a spray. Gas-producing types create a mist designed to knock down and kill flying insects such as flies.

As a total-release bug bomb, foggers are designed to clear rooms of large numbers of exposed insects. The use of foggers requires preparation (remove plansts, pets, and food; cover furniture) and time (for fogging and then ventilation after use). They have no residual action and therefore will not kill insects that emerge from protected crevices or other rooms after the treatment.

The liquid types contain contact residuals designed for insects that crawl or run on floors, such as ants and roaches. These materials deposit a toxic residue on surfaces where insects rest and travel and kill pests over an extended period of time.

Baits & Bait Traps
These are mixtures of a food bait and a poison. The bait and poison mixture may be placed in a special bait trap, or it may be a liquid designed to be spread on small pieces of cardboard. In either case, place all baits in areas where they are not readily accessible by children and pets.

Tapes
Strips of paper coated with poison on one side and adhesive on the other, tapes are placed in areas where insects will walk over them and come in contact with the insecticide.

Fumigants & Repellents
These are insecticides that readily vaporize into the atmosphere and give off gases that kill or repel insects. Fumigants may be sold as solids, liquids, or in liquid-impregnated resin strips.