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Wasp Spray

Sonia Nair
Wasps are infamous for their stings. Wasp sprays are commonly used to repel or kill these insects. Here are some information about such sprays.
Wasps are often associated with their stings, and are considered harmful. Actually, they are beneficial insects that feed on pests, and their stings are only a part of their defensive response.
However, wasp stings can cause immense pain and discomfort, and cause serious and life-threatening allergic reactions in some people. So, people are very cautious of these stinging insects. There are various products that are used for eliminating wasps. They include different types of wasp traps, sprays, and other repellents.

Sprays for Wasp Control

There are different types of wasp sprays that can be used for controlling, repelling, or eliminating these insects from your premises. Most of the commercially available sprays contain harmful chemicals that may cause environmental pollution. Apart from that, exposure to these chemicals is not good for pets and kids. So, natural ones are mostly preferred.

Chemical Sprays

Most of the commercial sprays contain chemicals, unless labeled as a natural product. Such wasp spray ingredients include pyrethroids, which are found to be less harmful to humans; but can cause paralysis in insects. These chemicals can eliminate wasps easily or repel them from entering the area.
Though safe for humans, these chemical sprays must be used properly, and as directed by the manufacturer. It is always better to use protective wear, like face mask, goggles, and gloves, to avoid contact with the chemicals.
It can be harmful, if you swallow or inhale these chemicals accidentally. In case of contact with the skin or eyes, the chemical sprays may cause irritation and discomfort.
Aerosol wasp sprays have to be stored in cool places that are out of the reach of children. Wasp sprays with pyrethroids are comparatively less toxic to mammals and birds, but are very effective in killing insects. Such sprays may cause harm to plants.
Avoid using chemical wasp sprays indoors. Isolate the treated area for at least a day. Keep such sprays away from kids and pets. Adults may get affected with these chemicals, if not used in the proper manner, or if ingested or inhaled.

Natural Sprays

Some brands of wasp sprays are claimed to be completely natural, and are said to be made of organic products. Such products are associated with minimal side effects. You may also use homemade wasp repellent sprays without any chemical ingredients.
There are various natural products that can be used as wasp repellents. Citrus oil extract is said to be effective for this purpose. Others include lavender oil, citronella oil, and eucalyptus oil.
In order to prepare a homemade wasp spray, mix ¼ ounce of lavender oil with ½ ounce citronella oil, and 1/8 ounce each of pennyroyal oil, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, and jojoba oil. This mixture has to be diluted with 16 ounces of vodka, before using as a wasp spray.
Another option is to combine equal amounts of menthol oil, teak oil, eucalyptus oil, and citronella oil; and spray the mixture on areas frequented by these insects. This will repel these insects, and also prevent them from nesting.
In short, wasp sprays are commonly used for eliminating wasps. It may also happen that, some types of sprays are effective for specific types of wasps. It is always better to go for natural wasp sprays, if you have kids or pets at home. If you are prone to allergies, or in case of heavy infestation; it will be better to seek professional help.