Total Release Foggers
Total release foggers — also called foggers or bug bombs — work by spraying a mist into the air that falls onto exposed surfaces and objects. They do not spray out gas and do not reach into unexposed voids, cracks and crevices, where pests may hide.
Fogger ingredients typically kill insects that are in the open and touch the pesticides. Foggers may not work on some pests that like to hide, such as bed bugs and cockroaches.
Using too many foggers can increase risks to people, pets and the environment. Fogger contents can catch fire and pose explosion hazards.
Before you choose and use foggers:
- Reduce your need to use foggers by taking steps to deter pests. Clean, declutter and remove the food, water and shelter pests need.
- Total release foggers may not be intended or effective for use on all indoor pests, especially bed bugs. Check the product label to see if your pest is listed.
- More is not better. Using extra foggers will not control pests better than the number given on the product's label and could increase your risks.
- Some insects may have developed the ability to survive and recover from a pesticide attack. This is called pesticide resistance. Bed bugs are among those that can be resistant.
- Foggers also may contain substances that repel pests, causing them to retreat further into their hiding places, where they are harder to reach.
Tips to protect people, pets, and property:
- Follow all label instructions. Do not use more foggers than is indicated for the space you're treating. You may need to calculate cubic footage.
- Do not use foggers in small, enclosed spaces, such as in closets, cabinets, and most vehicles.
- Reduce the risk of fire and explosion. Keep foggers away from open flames, turn off pilot lights, and unplug electrical appliances before use.
- Remove toys and other items belonging to children and pets from the area you want to treat. Also, remove food, dishes, and plants before using a fogger.
- Use door tags or signs to warn others who might have reason to enter the area where a fogger is in use.
- Leave the room or building immediately after setting off a fogger. Stay out of the area for the amount of time specified on the label, or longer, as this can help lower your risk of getting sick.
- Open windows and doors upon return to air out the treated area, per the label instructions. Use fans for better airflow.
- Cleaning after fogger use can help reduce possible exposures — especially surfaces that children or food might touch.
- If cleaning after fogger use, wear protective clothing. Consider wearing gloves, long sleeves and pants, and shoes with socks.
- Cover recently treated surfaces or furniture with a sheet or blanket before setting down young children.
- Store unused foggers in their original packaging out of the reach of children and pets.
Know the risks:
- Foggers may pose more risks to some people, such as children and people with asthma.
- If you or someone is exposed, move to fresh air. Call your doctor or the Poison Control Center (800-222-1222).
If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST), or email us at npic@ace.orst.edu.
Additional Resources
Last updated August 02, 2019
