Though Raid is the most common choice for killing bugs but is it an effective option? Well, you too are wondering about the same, then the following read will help you get the answer.

What Is Raid?

Raid is the brand name that offers a range of insecticides under one roof. This company was introduced back in 1956 and has become the most commonly used brand when it comes to getting rid of harmful bugs. It’s known for its famous tagline goes, “Kills bugs dead “.

What Does Raid Contain?

Raid contains Clothianidin, Metofluthrin, Piperonyl Butoxide ((butylcarbityl) (6-propylpiperonyl) ether and such chemical compounds) in addition to other ingredients with 98.59%. These other ingredients are inert as far as the task of killing the bed bugs is concerned, but their main job is to activate and preserve the active ingredients. Moreover, these ingredients protect the product from UV damage and enhance its sticking power on the surface.

Now coming back to active ingredients in the Raid products. One of these initial active ingredient used in Raid products was a synthetic pyrethroid called allethrin. Other active ingredients used in Raid products include toxic cyfluthrin (also a synthetic pyrethroid), prallethrin,  permethrin, and tetramethrin.

Most of the bed bug killing sprays available in the market contain similar ingredients, but the “other ingredients” are like a secret weapon. These ingredients are not revealed and make all the difference in the killing power of the spray.

Does Raid Kill Bed Bugs?


Yes, directly attacking bed bugs with Raid can surely kill bed bugs. However, bed bugs have a hard protective layer on their body which makes them resilient and difficult to destroy. It may take several hours to a couple of days to kill the bed bugs with Raid. Raid bed bug foaming spray may kill the bed bugs and their eggs.

The foaming spray can easily reach nooks and corners of your place which are favorite hideouts of the bed bugs. And the spray will remain active for about 4 weeks.

Precautions When Using Raid

  • Raid is hazardous for humans and pets. Therefore, it is necessary to vacate the place before the spraying Raid. Send your kids and pets outside the house or in another room to play. After being sure of their absence, spray the space and let it completely dry before letting the kids or/ and pets come in.
  • The most important thing to do before using any sort of pesticide or insecticide is thoroughly reading the label and safety instructions. This will not only help you apply the product most beneficially but will also assure your safety.
  • After spraying Raid bed bug foaming spray, leave the treated place and close it for at least 15 minutes. Then let the sprayed area get some air to dry. Thorough ventilation of the treated place is extremely important before commencing its normal use. During this ventilation period, be sure that you have completely locked the door and windows so that no more bugs will enter.
  • Thoroughly wash your hands after spraying Raid. And do not eat, drink, use the toilet, or smoke tobacco right after using Raid.
  • Remove your clothes and wash them to clean off the contamination.

How To Use Raid To Kill Bed Bugs

  • First and foremost read the instructions written on the packaging.
  • Shake the container before every use.
  • Hold the container in an upright position and keep it with the nozzle directed in the opposite direction/ away from you.
  • Spray by pressing the valve while keeping the container at least 8-10 inches away from you.
  • Keep spraying the affected area until damp.
  • You can use it on mattresses, furniture, carpet, drapes, and any water-safe fabric/ surfaces without worrying about stains or spots.

Alternative Methods For Killing Bed Bugs

  • Steam cleaning

When it comes to killing bed bugs without using any harmful chemicals or toxic sprays, steam cleaning comes on top of the list. Steam cleaning your mattresses, furniture, carpets, and drapes not only thoroughly clean them but also kill the nurturing bed bugs with its heat.

  • Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous Earth or DE is an organic, chemical-free powder that can effectively kill bed bugs. Diatomaceous Earth shatters the upper oily protective layer of the bed bugs’ exoskeleton causing their bodies to dehydrate and eventually die after a few hours.

There you go! Getting rid of bed bugs is not as easy as killing other insects. However, directly attacking them with Raid can be an effective method.