Does Raid Kill Wasps? Learn How to Get Rid of These Pests

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on March 11, 2023 · 4 mins read

Are you tired of seeing wasps buzzing around your garden or backyard? While these stinging insects play an important role in pollination and pest control, they can also be a nuisance and pose a danger to people who are allergic to their venom.

DIY Wasp removal recommendations

For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.

You might be wondering if Raid, a popular brand of insecticide spray, can get rid of wasps. In this article, we will explore whether Raid kills wasps and provide you with some practical tips on how to deal with these pests.

Identifying Wasps and Bees

Before we delve into the effectiveness of Raid against wasps, it’s important to know how to distinguish between different types of stinging insects. Wasps and bees have similar physical characteristics, but there are several key differences:

  • Wasps have slender bodies with narrow waists, while bees are rounder and fuzzier.
  • Wasps have smooth and shiny skin, while bees are hairy.
  • Wasps are more aggressive and can sting multiple times, while most bees die after stinging once.

Some common species of wasps that you might encounter in your backyard include paper wasps, yellow jackets, and hornets. Bees, on the other hand, can be classified as honeybees, bumblebees, or solitary bees.

Does Raid Kill Wasps?

The short answer is yes, Raid can kill wasps. Raid contains a powerful insecticide called cypermethrin, which is toxic to many types of flying and crawling insects, including wasps.

To use Raid against wasps, follow these steps:

  1. Wait until nighttime when the wasps are less active and have returned to their nest.
  2. Stand at a safe distance from the nest and spray Raid directly at the opening.
  3. Keep spraying for a few seconds until the nest is saturated with the insecticide.
  4. Leave the area and wait for 24 hours before checking if the wasps have been eliminated.

It’s important to note that Raid might not be effective against all species of wasps, especially if the nest is located in a hard-to-reach area or if the colony is particularly large. In these cases, it’s best to consult a professional pest control service that can safely remove the nest without putting yourself or others in danger.

Preventing Wasp Nests

The best way to deal with wasps is to prevent them from nesting in your property in the first place. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Seal any cracks or gaps in your walls, roof, or foundation where wasps can enter.
  • Keep your garbage cans tightly closed and dispose of food waste properly.
  • Avoid wearing strong perfumes or bright-colored clothing that can attract wasps.
  • Trim bushes, trees, and shrubs regularly to discourage wasps from building their nests.

By taking these preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of encountering wasps on your property and reduce the need for using insecticides like Raid.

Conclusion

In summary, Raid can be an effective tool for getting rid of wasps, but it should be used with caution and only as a last resort. Before resorting to insecticides, try to identify the type of insect you’re dealing with and take steps to prevent them from nesting in your property.

With these tips, you can enjoy your outdoor space without being bothered by wasps and other stinging insects. Happy gardening!