10 Best Insecticide Choices 2025 in the United States

The TERRO T300B Indoor Liquid Ant Killer is a popular choice for effectively combating indoor ant infestations. Utilizing borax as its active ingredient, this ant killer offers a straightforward and efficient mode of action. The product comes in a set of 12 bait stations, which are easy to place around the home, targeting key areas like baseboards, corners, and countertops.

The liquid formulation is ready to use, requiring no additional setup, making it convenient for homeowners. The bait is designed to attract ants, which then carry the liquid back to their colony, ensuring widespread impact and reducing ant activity within days. This product is effective against various ant species, including acrobat, crazy, ghost, little black, odorous house, and pavement ants.

There are some considerations to be mindful of. The presence of borax, while effective, does pose a certain level of toxicity, so it should be used with caution around pets and children. Additionally, the environmental impact is modest but should be considered, as borax can affect non-target organisms if not used as directed. This product is best suited for those looking for a fast-acting and easy-to-use solution for indoor ant problems, provided they can manage its safety considerations.

The Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor and Perimeter Concentrate is a versatile insecticide designed to tackle common household pests like ants, cockroaches, and spiders. Its primary active ingredients, Bifenthrin and Zeta-Cypermethrin, are potent and effective in killing these pests. One major strength of this product is its long-lasting residual effect, capable of preventing new infestations for up to 12 months when used indoors on non-porous surfaces. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a long-term solution to pest control.

Additionally, it is non-staining and odor-free, which is beneficial for indoor use, especially in sensitive areas like kitchens and bathrooms. The product also dries quickly, reducing the risk of accidental contact with treated surfaces. However, the concentrate formulation requires dilution and application with a tank sprayer, which might be a bit cumbersome for some users.

In terms of toxicity, while effective, the active ingredients are synthetic pyrethroids, which can be harmful to beneficial insects, pets, and potentially humans if not used correctly. Therefore, caution is needed during application and storage. Its environmental impact is also a consideration, as these chemicals can persist in the environment and affect non-target species. This product would be particularly suitable for homeowners seeking a robust and long-lasting insecticide for indoor and outdoor use, who are comfortable with handling and applying chemical concentrates.

Advion Cockroach Gel Bait is a versatile insecticide that targets various cockroach species, including German and American roaches. It contains 0.6% indoxacarb, a potent active ingredient known for its effectiveness in controlling cockroach populations. The gel formulation is highly attractive to roaches, encouraging them to consume the bait and subsequently transfer it to other roaches, enhancing its impact on infestations.

The gel remains effective for up to three years, offering a long-term solution for both indoor and outdoor use. The MetaActive effect ensures that the bait differentiates between target insects and non-target organisms, making it safer for people and pets. Application is straightforward with included plunger and tips, enabling precise placement in hard-to-reach areas.

Users should be cautious about the potential environmental impact, especially outdoors, as the product may affect other non-target insects despite its design. Additionally, while the bait is generally safe, users should always follow safety instructions to minimize any risk of toxicity. Advion Cockroach Gel Bait is an excellent choice for those looking for an effective and easy-to-use solution for persistent cockroach problems.