How To Apply Pest-control Spray

Don't let the stress and embarrassment of bugs in your home weigh you down. Find out how to apply pest-control spray effectively to help get rid of these uninvited guests. Plus, get tips for how to use sprays around kids and pets.

How to Apply Raid^® Ant & Roach Killer 26 Spray

Follow these steps for effective application:

1. Read and follow all usage instructions and precautions. Use only in well-ventilated areas and observe all product restrictions.
2. Cover or remove exposed food, dishes, utensils, and food handling equipment.
3. Cover any water inhabited by fish during treatment, and turn aquarium systems off.
4. Keep all people and pets out of the area during treatment.
5. Shake the can well before each use and hold the container upright.
6. For use as a direct spray, do not spray into air. Instead, point the opening of the spray about 18” from the insect, press down on the button firmly, and spray for 1-2 seconds.
7. For surface applications, point the opening of the spray 18” from the surface, press down on the button firmly, and spray for approximately 2 seconds per square foot.
8. Allow people and pets to re-enter the treated area only after all sprays have dried.
   
    

Pest control around kids & pets

Follow these easy tips to help minimize pesticide exposure for children and pets when using insect sprays:

• Read the full product label. Each product has specific usage instructions and precautions that must be carefully followed.
• Keep children and pets outside of the treatment area during and after product application and as directed by the product label.
• Strictly follow any product label instructions concerning the removal or covering of food, food preparation surfaces, eating utensils, or other objects that may be ingested by or come into contact with a child’s or pet’s mouth.
• Apply the product in the manner described on the label instructions. Do not over-apply or use in any manner that is inconsistent with the label. If the label instructs that the treatment area be ventilated after product use, follow the instructions exactly.
• Allow people and pets to re-enter the treated area only as directed by the product label.
  
   

Common mistakes to avoid

• Failing to read and follow all label use instructions and precautions.
• Misapplying or using the product improperly by not following the label instructions.
• Spraying near food preparation areas or uncovered food.
• Over-applying the spray beyond what is needed to wet the surface.
• Spraying directly on bait stations.
• Placing baits on areas that have already been sprayed.
• Neglecting to keep the product stored in a cool, dry location that is inaccessible to children or pets.

Find pest-control sprays

When you're protecting your home from pesky insects, use America's Most Trusted Insect Control Brand.* That's why we have a variety of effective sprays designed to help you tackle all kinds of pests.

See all pest-control sprays

*Voted Most Trusted Insect Control Brand by American shoppers based on the 2026 BrandSpark^® American Trust Study.

Sources

1. https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-08/documents/citizens_guide_to_pest_control_and_pesticide_safety.pdf