10 Best Ways to Get Rid of Bugs in Your House, According to Pest Control Experts

I’ve found that effective bug elimination requires a multi-pronged approach combining targeted traps, strategic sprays, and natural deterrents. Zevo flying insect traps use UV light technology to capture fruit flies and gnats continuously, while Ortho Home Defense Max creates year-long barriers against ants, roaches, and spiders on nonporous surfaces. For chemical-free solutions, I recommend peppermint oil repellent balls and Wondercide’s plant-based sprays, which safely target multiple pest species while protecting your family and pets from harsh chemicals. The thorough strategies below will transform your home into an impenetrable fortress against unwanted insects.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 12th September 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Use indoor insect traps with UV light technology that operate continuously to capture flying insects without chemicals or manual intervention.
• Apply long-lasting chemical barriers on nonporous surfaces that provide up to 365 days of protection against crawling insects like ants and roaches.
• Deploy natural pest repellents using essential oils like peppermint and rosemary that are safe for families and pets with chemical sensitivities.
• Install ultrasonic pest repellers that emit inaudible sound waves to disrupt pest behavior while consuming minimal energy and operating silently.
• Combine multiple pest control methods and maintain consistent replacement schedules for cartridges and natural repellents to ensure ongoing effectiveness.

Zevo Flying Insect Trap & Cartridge – Plug in Fly Trap for Indoor Bugs

If you’re dealing with persistent flying insects that disrupt your daily activities, the Zevo Flying Insect Trap offers a sophisticated, hands-off solution that works around the clock. This plug-in device uses blue and UV light technology to attract house flies, fruit flies, and gnats, then captures them on a discrete adhesive pad without requiring any manual contact. You’ll appreciate the mess-free design, which features powerful adhesive backing that eliminates the need for sprays or swatting. Setting up the trap couldn’t be simpler: remove the adhesive backing, insert the cartridge, and plug in the device for immediate 24/7 protection. You can place it strategically in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, or near houseplants where flying insects commonly gather.

Best For: Homeowners and renters who want a continuous, hands-off solution to control house flies, fruit flies, and gnats in indoor spaces without using sprays or chemicals.

Pros:

• Works 24/7 using blue and UV light technology to continuously attract and trap flying insects without any manual intervention
• Mess-free operation with discrete adhesive pads that eliminate the need for sprays, swatting, or direct contact with captured bugs
• Easy setup and maintenance – simply plug in the device and replace cartridges when full by tossing them in the garbage

Cons:

• Requires ongoing purchase of replacement cartridges, adding to long-term operating costs
• Only effective for specific types of flying insects (house flies, fruit flies, and gnats) and may not work on other pest species
• Needs access to electrical outlets, limiting placement options in areas without convenient power sources

Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier with Extended Reach Comfort Wand (1 gal.)

Homeowners dealing with persistent ant trails, spider webs, and roach sightings will find Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier an effective, long-lasting solution for extensive pest control. This powerful spray targets ants, roaches, spiders, fleas, and ticks, providing year-long protection on nonporous surfaces when applied correctly. You’ll appreciate the Extended Reach Comfort Wand, which eliminates awkward bending while treating baseboards, doorways, and window frames throughout your home. The versatile formula works indoors in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements, plus outdoors around your foundation for thorough barrier protection. Whether you’re preventing future infestations or addressing current bug problems, this gallon-sized container offers substantial coverage for whole-house treatment.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with persistent indoor pest problems who want a long-lasting, easy-to-apply solution that provides year-round protection against ants, roaches, spiders, fleas, and ticks.

Pros:

• Provides 365 days of protection on nonporous surfaces with a single application
• Extended Reach Comfort Wand eliminates the need for bending during application
• Large 1-gallon size offers substantial coverage for whole-house treatment both indoors and outdoors

Cons:

• Only effective on nonporous surfaces, limiting application areas
• Large container size may be excessive for smaller homes or apartments
• Chemical-based formula may not be suitable for households preferring natural pest control methods

Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug, Flea and Tick Killer with Comfort Wand (1 gal.)

The Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug, Flea and Tick Killer stands out as an exceptional choice for homeowners dealing with persistent, hard-to-eliminate pests that resist standard treatments. This powerful spray effectively targets pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs, bed bug eggs, fleas, and ticks using its specialized formula. The included Comfort Wand makes application straightforward, allowing you to reach difficult areas like mattress seams, bed frames, and baseboards with precision. You’ll need to apply the treatment every two weeks when bed bugs are present, ensuring treated areas dry completely before allowing people or pets to return. As part of Ortho’s thorough three-step system, this gallon-sized solution provides extensive coverage for room-wide treatments, earning impressive ratings from thousands of satisfied customers.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with persistent bed bugs, fleas, and ticks, especially those facing pyrethroid-resistant bed bug infestations that require targeted treatment in hard-to-reach areas.

Pros:

• Effectively eliminates pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs, bed bug eggs, fleas, and ticks with specialized formula
• Includes Comfort Wand for precise application in difficult areas like mattress seams and baseboards
• Large 1-gallon size provides extensive coverage with high customer satisfaction ratings (4.4/5 stars from over 31,000 reviews)

Cons:

• Requires repeated applications every 2 weeks when bed bugs are present, making treatment time-consuming
• Treated areas must be vacated until spray dries completely, causing temporary displacement
• Functions as only Step 2 of a three-step system, requiring additional products for complete treatment

Peppermint Oil Spider Repellent – 24 Pack Spider Repellent Balls

Natural pest control enthusiasts who frequently struggle with chemical sensitivities will find these peppermint oil spider repellent balls perfectly suited for their homes. These 24-pack repellent balls combine peppermint, lemongrass, and rosemary oils to create an effective barrier against spiders, roaches, ants, and other unwanted insects. You’ll appreciate their plant-based formula that’s safe for humans and pets while targeting various spider species, including dangerous black widows.

Simply remove the balls from packaging, place them in fabric bags, and hang them throughout your home. Space these natural deterrents 3-6 feet apart in bedrooms, garages, basements, kitchens, and storage areas for extensive coverage. Replace monthly or when the scent fades to maintain ideal protection.

Best For: Natural pest control enthusiasts with chemical sensitivities who want a safe, plant-based solution to repel spiders and other insects from their homes.

Pros:

• Made from natural plant-based oils (peppermint, lemongrass, rosemary) that are safe for humans and pets
• Effective against multiple pests including spiders, roaches, ants, and specifically targets dangerous black widows
• Versatile application for both indoor and outdoor use across various spaces like bedrooms, garages, and basements

Cons:

• Requires monthly replacement or when scent fades, creating ongoing maintenance costs
• Needs to be placed in fabric bags and hung properly with 3-6 feet spacing for effectiveness
• May not provide the immediate results that chemical pesticides offer for severe infestations

2024 Upgraded Ultrasonic Insect Indoor Repeller (6 Packs)

Homeowners seeking a chemical-free approach to pest control will find the 2024 Upgraded Ultrasonic Insect Indoor Repeller an effective, eco-friendly solution for eliminating unwanted insects and rodents. This device operates using intelligent frequency conversion technology, emitting three distinct sound wave frequencies ranging from 20KHZ to 60KHZ that stimulate pest brain neurons. You’ll appreciate its safety features, as the ultrasound remains completely inaudible to humans and household pets while effectively targeting roaches, mice, mosquitoes, spiders, and ants. The energy-efficient design consumes only 3-5 watts of power, making it more economical than small desk lamps. You can expect initial results within 1-2 weeks, with significant pest reduction occurring after 3-4 weeks of continuous use.

Best For: Homeowners who want a safe, chemical-free pest control solution that’s energy-efficient and won’t disturb humans or pets.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly alternative that eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, poisons, or traps
• Energy-efficient operation at only 3-5 watts, consuming less power than a small desk lamp
• Targets multiple pests including roaches, mice, mosquitoes, spiders, and ants with intelligent frequency conversion technology

Cons:

• Results require patience, taking 1-2 weeks for initial effects and 3-4 weeks for significant pest reduction
• Requires continuous use to prevent re-infestation, meaning ongoing electricity consumption
• Effectiveness may vary depending on pest type and infestation severity

2025 Upgraded Ultrasonic Pest Repellent for Indoor Use (6 Pack)

Modern pest problems require advanced solutions, and the 2025 Upgraded Ultrasonic Pest Repellent delivers cutting-edge technology for homeowners dealing with multiple indoor infestations. This six-pack system uses ultrasonic waves ranging from 10kHz-65kHz to target pests’ auditory nervous systems, effectively repelling mice, ants, roaches, mosquitoes, spiders, and bed bugs without harmful chemicals.

You’ll appreciate the simple plug-in operation that covers 1,600 square feet per unit, making it perfect for bedrooms, kitchens, garages, and offices. The silent nighttime mode guarantees you won’t experience sleep disruptions while maintaining pest control effectiveness. Install units 10-50 inches from the floor, and expect noticeable pest reduction within 2-3 weeks of consistent use.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a chemical-free, family-safe pest control solution for multiple rooms who want comprehensive coverage against various indoor pests including mice, ants, roaches, mosquitoes, spiders, and bed bugs.

Pros:

• Chemical-free operation that’s safe for children, pregnant women, and pets without interfering with household appliances
• Comprehensive coverage with six units providing up to 9,600 square feet of protection with silent nighttime mode
• Simple plug-and-play operation requiring no maintenance while targeting multiple pest types with ultrasonic frequency range of 10kHz-65kHz

Cons:

• Results require patience as noticeable pest reduction takes 2-3 weeks of consistent use
• Effectiveness may vary depending on room layout, furniture placement, and severity of infestation
• Ultrasonic technology’s long-term effectiveness can diminish as some pests may adapt to the frequency patterns over time

Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Indoor and Perimeter (1.33 gal)

When you’re dealing with persistent indoor pest problems that require long-lasting protection, Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer offers an extensive solution that targets multiple bug species effectively. This versatile 1.33-gallon formula eliminates ants, cockroaches, spiders, fleas, ticks, scorpions, earwigs, silverfish, and periodical cicadas throughout your home’s interior and exterior perimeter areas. You’ll appreciate the included battery-powered Comfort Wand, which delivers continuous spray application for consistent coverage in kitchens, bathrooms, around doors, windows, foundations, patios, and garages. The treatment provides up to twelve months of protection against ants, roaches, and spiders on non-porous surfaces, making it ideal for both preventative applications and reactive treatments after detecting insect activity.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with multiple types of indoor and outdoor pest problems who want a long-lasting, comprehensive insect control solution that can be applied both preventatively and reactively.

Pros:

• Targets a wide variety of common household pests including ants, cockroaches, spiders, fleas, ticks, and scorpions
• Provides up to 12 months of protection on non-porous surfaces, offering exceptional long-term value
• Includes battery-powered Comfort Wand for easy, continuous spray application both indoors and outdoors

Cons:

• Large 1.33-gallon size may be excessive for smaller homes or apartments with limited pest issues
• Protection duration may vary on porous surfaces compared to the advertised 12-month period on non-porous surfaces
• Chemical-based formula may not be suitable for households preferring natural or organic pest control methods

Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray – Natural Essential Oils, Pet & Family Safe (Peppermint 32 oz)

Pet owners searching for effective indoor pest control face a unique challenge: finding products that eliminate bugs without endangering their furry family members. Wondercide Indoor Pest Control Spray offers a natural solution, using essential oils to target ants, roaches, spiders, flies, fleas, and ticks throughout your home. This 32-ounce peppermint-scented formula kills pests on contact while remaining safe around dogs and cats when used as directed. You can apply it frequently around windows, doors, baseboards, and under sinks without worry about harsh chemicals. However, effectiveness varies among pest types, with some users reporting excellent ant control but limited success against spiders and fruit flies.

Best For: Pet owners seeking a natural, frequently-applicable indoor pest control solution that’s safe around dogs and cats, particularly effective against ants and fleas.

Pros:

• Safe for use around pets and family with natural essential oil formula free from harsh chemicals
• Kills pests on contact and works effectively against ants, fleas (including eggs and larvae), and various crawling insects
• Pleasant peppermint scent and can be applied frequently throughout the home without staining

Cons:

• Limited effectiveness against spiders and fruit flies/gnats, with some pests returning after treatment
• May require heavy or repeated applications for temporary control rather than long-term elimination
• Inconsistent results across different pest types, leading to mixed user experiences and repeated purchases

STEM Plant-Based Bug Spray for Indoor and Outdoor Use (12 fl oz)

STEM Plant-Based Bug Spray offers homeowners a powerful solution that combines botanical effectiveness with family-friendly safety, making it ideal for households with children, pets, or anyone seeking natural pest control. This 12-ounce formula targets common household pests like ants, roaches, and flies through carefully selected botanical extracts that deliver quick knockdown power. You’ll appreciate that this entomologist-tested spray contains no added dyes, fragrances, or harsh chemical odors, ensuring your indoor air quality remains fresh and clean. The versatile formulation works effectively both indoors and outdoors, giving you extensive pest management options throughout your property. When used as directed, this plant-based approach provides reliable results without compromising your family’s health or environmental values.

Best For: Families with children and pets who want effective pest control against ants, roaches, and flies without harsh chemicals or strong odors.

Pros:

• Plant-based formula with botanical extracts that’s safe around people and pets when used as directed
• No added dyes, fragrances, or harsh chemical odors to maintain indoor air quality
• Entomologist-tested effectiveness for both indoor and outdoor use

Cons:

• Only targets three specific pest types (ants, roaches, and flies) rather than a broader range of insects
• Plant-based formulas may require more frequent reapplication compared to synthetic alternatives
• 12 fl oz size may not last long for households with significant or recurring pest problems

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Way to Get Rid of Bugs in House

When I’m helping you choose the most effective bug control method for your home, several critical factors will determine your success and satisfaction with the results. The type of pest you’re targeting, whether you need indoor or outdoor treatment, and your family’s safety requirements all play essential roles in selecting the right approach. I’ll also guide you through considering how long you want the treatment to last and which application methods work best for your specific situation and comfort level.

Type of Pest

Although all bugs might seem similar at first glance, identifying the specific type of pest infesting your home stands as the most critical step in selecting an effective elimination strategy. Each species exhibits unique behaviors and habitat preferences that directly influence treatment placement and application methods. For instance, bed bugs require targeted spraying on mattresses, bed frames, and upholstered furniture, while fruit flies respond better to vinegar traps placed near kitchen areas where they breed. Understanding your pest’s life cycle also determines treatment frequency and approach, since targeting larvae often proves more effective than focusing solely on adults. Whether you’re dealing with indoor roaches or outdoor ants finding entry points, species-specific identification guides your selection of appropriate control methods for lasting results.

Safety for Family

Your family’s health and safety should remain the top priority while selecting any pest control method for your home. I recommend choosing products labeled as pet and family safe, which typically contain natural or non-toxic ingredients rather than harsh synthetic chemicals. Plant-based sprays with botanical extracts offer effective pest elimination while minimizing health risks for your household members. However, you’ll need to check for potential allergens, since essential oils and other natural ingredients can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. Always follow usage instructions carefully, keeping treated areas vacant until products dry completely, and avoid direct contact during application. Consider long-term implications of chemical exposure, including possible respiratory issues or skin irritations from synthetic pesticides.

Indoor Vs Outdoor

Since pest problems can originate both inside and outside your home, understanding the distinct approaches for each environment helps you create an extensive bug control strategy. Indoor pest control focuses on targeted methods like traps, sprays, and plug-in devices that work continuously without harsh chemicals, making them perfect for enclosed spaces where you’re dealing with flies and spiders. I recommend these solutions because they’re designed specifically for home environments and provide ongoing protection. Outdoor pest management requires broader barrier treatments and long-lasting sprays that protect against mosquitoes, ants, and other invaders before they enter your house. Your choice between indoor and outdoor methods depends on the pest type, infestation severity, and specific areas needing treatment.

Treatment Duration Needed

Treatment duration becomes a critical factor when selecting the right pest control method for your specific situation. I’ll help you understand how different approaches affect timing and long-term success. Contact killers provide immediate relief, eliminating visible pests within hours, but they don’t prevent future infestations. Barrier treatments offer extended protection, with some products lasting up to 365 days on nonporous surfaces, considerably reducing reapplication frequency. However, repellent-based solutions require consistent use to maintain their protective barrier effectiveness. Consider your infestation level and environmental conditions, as these factors directly influence treatment duration. Products targeting specific pests may need reapplication every few weeks, especially after noticing renewed activity, making ongoing monitoring essential for sustained pest control success.

Application Method Preference

Several application methods exist for pest control, each offering distinct advantages depending on your comfort level and specific situation. I recommend considering sprays with comfort wands if you need targeted treatment in hard-to-reach areas, as they minimize physical strain while providing thorough coverage. Plug-in devices offer convenience through continuous operation, simply requiring you to insert them into outlets without direct contact with pests. Adhesive traps present mess-free solutions where you’ll peel backing and position strategically for effective results. Consider your maintenance preferences too, since some sprays need reapplication every few weeks, while others protect non-porous surfaces for up to a year. Choose methods that match your comfort level with setup, ongoing maintenance, and disposal requirements.

Chemical Vs Natural

Once you’ve determined your preferred application method, you’ll need to decide between chemical and natural pest control approaches, each offering distinct trade-offs. Chemical products deliver faster, more immediate results against diverse insects, creating protective barriers that can last up to 365 days on nonporous surfaces. However, natural solutions using essential oils or plant-based ingredients provide safer environments for children and pets, reducing toxic exposure risks considerably.

I should mention that natural methods often require more frequent applications and show variable effectiveness, particularly against stubborn pests like spiders and fruit flies. Chemical products undergo rigorous testing for effectiveness and safety, while natural alternatives may lack extensive scientific validation, leading to mixed consumer experiences and inconsistent results.

On a final note

I’ve shown you ten effective methods to eliminate household pests, from chemical sprays to natural repellents. Consider your specific bug problem, safety concerns, and budget when selecting treatments. Chemical barriers work quickly for severe infestations, while essential oil sprays offer family-safe alternatives. Remember that consistent application and proper identification of pest entry points will maximize your success. With these expert-recommended tools and strategies, you’ll reclaim your home from unwanted insects.