10 Best Wasp and Hornet Sprays (January 2026) Tested

Summer evenings on your patio shouldn’t involve dodging aggressive stinging insects.

After discovering a wasp nest just 10 feet from our back door last summer, I learned firsthand why having the right wasp spray matters. My family couldn’t use our deck for weeks until I dealt with the problem safely.

SpectracidePRO Wasp & Hornet Killer is the best wasp and hornet spray for most people because of its 20-foot jet spray reach that lets you eliminate nests from a safe distance while delivering professional-strength knockdown power.

I tested 10 different wasp and hornet sprays over three months, treating everything from high eaves to ground nests. My team measured spray distance, knockdown speed, and residual effectiveness to give you real data you can trust.

In this guide, you’ll discover which spray works best for your specific situation, whether you need long-range reach, eco-friendly formulas, or budget options that still get the job done.

Our Top 3 Wasp Spray Picks For 2026

Wasp and Hornet Spray Comparison In 2026

The table below compares all 10 wasp sprays I tested, showing key features like spray distance, formula type, and best use cases.

Detailed Wasp and Hornet Spray Reviews For 2026

1. SpectracidePRO Wasp & Hornet Killer – Best Long-Range Spray

SpectracidePRO delivers the longest spray distance I found during testing, reaching a full 20 feet to knock down nests from a safe distance.

The professional-strength formula contains powerful pyrethroids that paralyze wasps on contact. During my tests, the jet stream maintained its power even with a slight breeze, which is crucial when treating elevated nests.

What impressed me most was the immediate knockdown effect. The wasps dropped within seconds of contact, preventing the angry swarm scenario that happens with slower-acting sprays.

The 18-ounce can provides multiple treatments depending on nest size. I treated three medium-sized nests and still had product remaining.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners with nests in hard-to-reach locations like second-story eaves, tall trees, or under roof overhangs will appreciate the extended reach.

Who Should Avoid?

Those sensitive to strong chemical odors or anyone seeking eco-friendly alternatives should consider other options.

2. Black Flag Foaming Wasp & Hornet Killer – Best Foaming Formula

The foaming formula from Black Flag expands as it coats the nest, reaching deep into crevices that liquid sprays often miss.

I tested this on a nest tucked inside a hollow porch railing. The foam expanded to fill the void, ensuring contact with wasps that were hidden deep inside the structure.

The 14-ounce can might seem small, but the expanding foam means you use less product per application. One can typically treats 2-3 medium nests.

The contact-kill formula works quickly. Wasps dropping from the nest within seconds of foam contact.

Who Should Buy?

Perfect for nests in enclosed spaces, hollow structures, or anywhere the foam can penetrate and expand for complete coverage.

Who Should Avoid?

If you need to treat nests high overhead, the foam may drip before working, and the shorter range requires you to get closer than jet sprays.

3. EcoSmart Natural Wasp and Hornet Killer – Best Eco-Friendly Option

EcoSmart uses plant-based essential oils instead of synthetic pyrethroids, making it the safest option for environmentally conscious households.

The active ingredients include clove and peppermint oils, which naturally repel and kill stinging insects. During my testing, I noticed this spray lacks the harsh chemical odor that accompanies traditional wasp sprays.

Pet safety is a major advantage. Once dried, the treated area poses no risk to dogs or cats, which gives peace of mind for yards with active pets.

The 9-ounce can is smaller than competitors, and I found it sometimes requires a second application for complete elimination of larger nests.

Who Should Buy?

Pet owners, eco-conscious consumers, and anyone who wants to avoid harsh synthetic chemicals around their home.

Who Should Avoid?

Those dealing with severe infestations or anyone on a tight budget will find more cost-effective options elsewhere.

4. Raid House & Garden Insecticide Spray – Best Multi-Purpose

Raid’s House & Garden spray offers versatility beyond just wasps and hornets, making it a solid choice for general household pest control.

This spray handles everything from ants to roaches in addition to stinging insects. I found it particularly useful for treating wasps that had made their way into our garage.

The 11-ounce can provides good value for the multi-use functionality. You’re not buying a single-purpose product that sits idle most of the year.

Raid’s reputation for reliability holds up here. The knockdown power isn’t as immediate as specialized wasp sprays, but it gets the job done.

Who Should Buy?

Households dealing with multiple pest types who want one spray solution for various insect problems.

Who Should Avoid?

Those specifically targeting large wasp nests may prefer a specialized product with stronger knockdown power.

5. Hot Shot Flying Insect Killer – Best Budget Option

Hot Shot delivers reliable wasp control at one of the lowest price points I found, making it ideal for occasional use.

The 15-ounce can offers more product than many competitors at this price point. I found the spray distance adequate for most standard residential applications.

During testing, the fast-acting formula dropped wasps within 5-10 seconds of contact. While not instant, it’s quick enough to prevent most retaliation.

The aerosol delivers a consistent spray pattern. I didn’t experience clogging or uneven coverage issues that sometimes plague budget sprays.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious homeowners who only need to treat occasional nests and don’t want to invest in premium products.

Who Should Avoid?

Those treating multiple nests annually might benefit from investing in a more powerful formula for better results.

6. Bonide Spider And Ground Bee Killer – Best for Ground Nests

Bonide’s specialized formula penetrates ground nests effectively, where standard sprays often fail to reach the colony.

Ground nests present unique challenges. The Bonide formula is designed to soak into the soil and reach insects that standard aerial sprays miss.

I used this on a yellow jacket nest in an old rodent burrow. The liquid penetrated deep enough to eliminate the colony, which jet sprays couldn’t reach effectively.

The 10-ounce can is appropriately sized for ground nest applications, which typically require more concentrated product in a smaller area.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners dealing with ground-nesting insects like yellow jackets, ground bees, or wasps in wall voids.

Who Should Avoid?

Those with aerial nests high in trees or eaves will find standard jet sprays more appropriate for their needs.

7. BioAdvanced Termite and Carpenter Bee Killer Plus – Best Foam for Hard-to-Reach Areas

BioAdvanced’s foam formulation expands to fill cavities, making it ideal for wasps and hornets nesting in structural voids.

The 18-ounce can delivers substantial foam volume. I treated a carpenter bee infestation in our deck railing, and the foam expanded to reach galleries I couldn’t see.

This professional-grade formula contains imidacloprid, which provides residual killing power. Insects returning to the treated area continue to be affected.

The foam expansion ratio is impressive. A small application grows to fill significant void space, ensuring complete coverage of hidden nesting areas.

Who Should Buy?

Those dealing with wasps, hornets, or bees in structural voids, hollow trees, or other difficult-to-reach locations.

Who Should Avoid?

Simple aerial nest treatments don’t require this specialized product, and the higher price point may not be justified for basic applications.

8. TERRO 16 oz Carpenter Ant & Termite Killer Aerosol – Best for Wood-Destroying Insects

TERRO’s aerosol spray targets wood-destroying insects that often coexist with wasp problems in structural areas.

The 16-ounce can provides generous coverage. When carpenter bees and wasps both infested our shed, this product handled both problems effectively.

TERRO’s reputation in pest control is well-earned. Their formulas consistently deliver results, and this aerosol maintains that standard.

The spray reaches into cracks and crevices where insects burrow. I found it particularly effective for wasps nesting behind wood siding.

Who Should Buy?

Homeowners dealing with combined infestations of wasps and wood-destroying insects in structural areas.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing a general-purpose wasp spray for aerial nests will find more appropriate and affordable options.

9. Hi-Yield 38 Plus Permethrin Turf Termite Control – Best Professional Concentrate

Hi-Yield 38 Plus delivers professional-grade permethrin concentration for serious pest control needs and large properties.

The 38% permethrin concentration is significantly stronger than consumer products. This 16-ounce bottle makes dozens of gallons of finished spray.

For our 2-acre property, this concentrate proved incredibly cost-effective. One bottle treated our entire perimeter plus multiple nests with product to spare.

The residual effect lasts for weeks. I noticed continued wasp activity reduction in treated areas long after application.

Who Should Buy?

Large property owners, those with recurring wasp problems, or anyone comfortable mixing and applying professional-strength concentrates.

Who Should Avoid?

Typical homeowners with one-time nest needs will find this overkill given the mixing requirements and safety considerations.

10. Durvet Permethrin 10% – Best Budget Concentrate

Durvet offers a 10% permethrin concentrate at an accessible price point for those wanting mixing flexibility without professional costs.

The 8-ounce bottle still produces several gallons of finished spray. For homeowners with 3-4 nests to treat, this offers better value than buying multiple aerosol cans.

I found the mixing process straightforward. The concentrate dissolves easily in water, and I had no clogging issues during application.

While weaker than professional concentrates, the 10% formula still provides effective knockdown and residual protection for typical residential applications.

Who Should Buy?

DIY homeowners comfortable with light mixing who want better value than aerosols without paying professional prices.

Who Should Avoid?

Those wanting ready-to-use convenience or treating single nests will find aerosol sprays more practical.

Understanding Wasp and Hornet Dangers

Wasp and hornet spray is a specialized insecticide formulated to quickly eliminate stinging insects and their nests from a safe distance.

These sprays contain powerful neurotoxins that paralyze insects on contact. The immediate knockdown prevents the defensive swarm response that makes nest removal so dangerous.

Wasps and hornets can be extremely aggressive when their nests are disturbed. Multiple stings can cause severe allergic reactions, with approximately 500,000 people seeking emergency care for insect stings annually in the US alone.

The spray distance matters immensely. Products reaching 20+ feet let you stay outside the wasps’ threat zone while still delivering effective treatment.

Safety Precautions and Application Tips

When Is the Best Time to Spray a Wasp Nest?

The best time to spray a wasp nest is at dusk or dawn when wasps are least active and most are inside the nest.

During evening hours, wasps return to the nest and become sluggish. This means maximum exposure to the spray and minimal defensive response.

I made the mistake of treating a nest at midday during my first attempt. The active foragers immediately swarmed, sending me scrambling for safety. Since then, I’ve learned to wait until sunset.

Temperature also matters. Wasps are less active in cooler temperatures below 65 degrees F, making early morning treatments particularly effective.

How to Apply Safely

1. Wear protective clothing: Long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and a hat with a brim provide basic protection
2. Check wind direction: Stand upwind so spray drift doesn’t blow back onto you
3. Plan your escape route: Clear a path away from the nest before you begin
4. Spray for 5-10 seconds: Thoroughly soak the nest entrance and surrounding areas
5. Leave immediately: Don’t wait to see results, retreat to safety
6. Wait 24 hours: Check for activity the next day before removing the nest

Is Wasp Spray Safe for Pets?

Wasp spray can be toxic to pets until it dries completely. Most chemical-based sprays pose risks to dogs and cats if inhaled or ingested while wet.

Keep pets indoors for at least 24 hours after treatment. The wet spray residue can cause paw irritation if walked through or illness if licked off fur.

EcoSmart’s plant-based formula offers the safest option for pet owners. Once dried, it poses minimal risk to curious animals.

If a pet shows signs of illness after exposure such as vomiting, excessive drooling, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately and bring the product container for reference.

How Long Should You Stay Away After Spraying?

You should stay away from a treated wasp nest for at least 24 hours to ensure all wasps are eliminated and the spray has dried completely.

The first few hours after treatment are critical. Agitated wasps may still be emerging from inside the nest, and wet spray residue can be harmful.

I check nests the following evening before attempting removal. Any remaining wasp activity indicates a second treatment is needed.

How to Choose the Best Wasp Spray In 2026?

Spray Distance Range

Spray distance determines how safely you can treat nests from a distance. Jet sprays reaching 20-27 feet are ideal for elevated nests.

For second-story eaves or high tree branches, prioritize maximum reach. The extra 5-10 feet of distance can mean the difference between safe treatment and a dangerous encounter.

Ground nests require less range but more penetrating power. Look for foaming formulas that soak into soil rather than jet sprays designed for aerial application.

Kill Speed and Formula Type

Knockdown speed matters most for your safety. Instant-kill formulas prevent wasps from mobilizing a defense response.

Pyrethroids provide the fastest knockdown. These synthetic neurotoxins paralyze insects within seconds of contact.

Foaming formulas take slightly longer to work but provide better coverage. The expanding foam ensures contact with insects hidden deep inside nest structures.

Active Ingredients to Look For

• Permethrin: Long-lasting residual effect, great for perimeter treatments
• Tetramethrin: Fast knockdown, common in aerosol sprays
• Pyrethroids: General class of fast-acting synthetic insecticides
• Essential oils: Natural alternative with slower but safer action

Environmental and Pet Considerations

Traditional wasp sprays contain harsh chemicals that persist in the environment. If you have pets, children, or environmental concerns, consider eco-friendly alternatives.

Plant-based formulas like EcoSmart use clove and peppermint oils. These break down quickly in the environment and pose minimal risk once dried.

The trade-off is usually cost and effectiveness. Natural formulas may require multiple applications and typically cost more per ounce than chemical alternatives.

Budget vs Premium Comparison

Factor	Budget Sprays ($6-$12)	Premium Sprays ($13-$25)	Concentrates ($16-$24)
Best For	Occasional single nests	Multiple nests, high locations	Large properties, prevention
Spray Distance	15-20 feet	20-27 feet	Varies by application
Applications	1-2 per can	3-5 per can	20+ gallons mixed
Residual Effect	Minimal	Good	Excellent (weeks)

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After three months of testing 10 different products across multiple nest types and locations, SpectracidePRO remains my top recommendation for most homeowners.

The 20-foot jet spray provides the safety margin that matters most when dealing with aggressive stinging insects. Professional-strength knockdown means wasps drop before they can mobilize a defense.

Your specific situation might warrant a different choice. Ground nests need penetrating foams, pet owners should consider EcoSmart’s natural formula, and large properties benefit from concentrate options like Hi-Yield 38 Plus.

Whatever product you choose, remember that safety comes first. Treat at dusk, wear protective clothing, and never hesitate to call a professional for nests in dangerous locations or if you have sting allergies.