Pyrethroids

When pests like mosquitoes, ants, spiders, and cockroaches are causing trouble, you need an insecticide that can knock the population down quickly and can remain effective long after application. Pyrethroids do an excellent job of accomplishing both.

On this page, we will tell you some vital information about pyrethroids, how it works, its benefits and how to use the chemical safely to achieve your pest control goals. Here you can also shop our top expert-recommended pyrethroid products.

What are Pyrethroids?

Pyrethroids represent a class of synthetic pesticides active ingredients used in many popular insecticide products. Pyrethroids mimic the properties of the natural insecticide pyrethrum, which is derived from the extract of the chrysanthemum plant, hence its similar sounding name.

Pyrethroids are versatile and come in a variety of different formulations such as emulsifiable concentrates, wettable powders, dusts, aerosols, granules, and microencapsulated concentrates.

Pyrethroid active ingredients are often recognized by their names ending in -thrin or -ate. For example, some of the more popular pyrethroid actives include bifenthrin, cypermethrin, Deltamethrin, cyfluthrin, esfenvalerate, lambda-cyhalothrin, and others.

How Do Pyrethroids Work?

As mentioned above, pyrethroids are man-made chemicals that mimic the effect of the chrysanthemum-extracted pyrethrin. So it produces the same result of pyrethrins, a quick knockdown of insects that come into contact with the chemical via disruption of the insect's nervous system resulting in paralysis and then death.

Benefits of Pyrethroids

In many ways, pyrethroids are an upgrade over the natural organic pyrethrin. Pyrethroids are usually cheaper priced, contain little to no odor and can be used in low concentrations while still remaining just as effective. Pyrethroids also have the benefit of a longer-lasting residual after application with some formulations remaining effective for up to 90 days because they are photostable and not volatile.

Pyrethroids are also popular because of how quickly they affect insects, being a great chemical type for flushing products or offering quick knockdowns.

Drawbacks of Pyrethroids

Since Pyrethroids are synthetic, they are more toxic than the plant-derived pyrethrin. Pyrethroids can also be more prone to insect resistance if used often. Some pyrethroids may have low solubility in water and can be difficult to maintain an even mix. Pyrethroids are highly toxic to fish and may cause skin irritation. Depending on how a particular pyrethroid is formulated, it will typically be repellent to some insects.

Are Pyrethroids Safe?

Pyrethroids are safe to use when applied according to label directions. Please wear the proper PPE (gloves, safety mask, protective eyewear etc.) before mixing and applying pyrethroid products. You should also apply on calm days to limit the chances of the product drifting to areas where you don't intend the chemical to be. Keep pets and children away from areas that have been treated until the product has totally dried.

What To Expect

Depending on the formulation of the Pyrethroid product you are using, you should see a quick knockdown of your problem pest. Pyrethroids often contain a long residual, which means you wouldn't have to apply as often to control your target pest or to protect an area.

Featured Products

Reclaim IT Insecticide - Reclaim I/T is a bifenthrin insecticide concentrate designed for broad-spectrum control of over 70 insects. It does not stain and does not have an odor. Reclaim I/T will control pests for up to 90 days and is safe for pets and kids once dry.

Novacide Flea & Tick Killer - Novacide Flea and Tick Killer is an aerosol insecticide with a built-in insect growth regulator (IGR) that breaks the life cycle of targeted pests. Though primarily used for controlling fleas and ticks, Novacide can also be used against many other insects such as roaches, moths, and ants. Novacide is safe to use and kills with contact.

Sylo Insecticide - Sylo Insecticide is an emulsifiable concentrate made with a synthetic pyrethroid that works by damaging the target pest's nervous system. It controls many different types of insects and is highly recommended to use against fleas, spiders, roaches, and wasps. Sylo Insecticide can be used as a broadcast spray for large areas or as a barrier spray around entry points.

Flex 10-10 Insecticide - Flex 10-10 is a liquid insecticide concentrate made with permethrin and piperonyl butoxide (PBO) synergist. This product will control mosquitoes, flies, gnats, wasps, fleas, ticks, cockroaches, spiders, and other nuisance insects. Flex 10-10 is safe and easy to apply.