If you need to use an insecticide indoors, explore your options and choose the least toxic material. Apply in limited amounts, and provide adequate ventilation during and after application. Boric acid, silica aerogel, and diatomaceous earth, often considered least toxic choices, may be sufficient to control the pest. Be sure that all the pesticides you use are household formulations and that the pest and the site are clearly listed on the label. Uses inconsistent with the label are illegal and could be dangerous.

If you hire a pest management professional (PMP), choose one that uses least toxic pest management practices. Take all necessary safety precautions: vacate or ventilate premises; prevent children or pets from coming in contact with treated surfaces until completely dry; remove pet food, water, and bedding during application; remove or cover fish tanks and air pumps during applications.

For pests such as fleas, treat pets at the same time the structure is treated, and be prepared to dispose of or wash all pet bedding.

Specific chemicals registered for control of household pests are listed in Table 5 (see Tables 2 and 3 for toxicity information). Be sure to see Part I, Cultural Methods, for nonpesticidal means of managing pests.

Table 5 Annoying pests inside the home
Pests	Recommended Pest Management Techniques
Ants 5/16 inch	Ant traps, which contain baits of boric acid or other poisons, attract the pest to the poison, avoiding the need to apply poison throughout the environment. The newer baits may offer a choice of sweets or protein and are more effective for a wide range of ants. Keep traps out of reach of children and pets. Although ant traps are useful for some species, they do not work for all ants. If problems persist, spot treatment with an insecticide where ants enter may be helpful. Registered pesticides include Baygon, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, permethrin, silica gel–pyrethrum combination, or resmethrin. Sometimes ants nest in wall voids. If problem persists, you may want to consult a PMP¹. See also Carpenter ants.
Bedbugs 3/8 inch	If necessary, apply cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, diatomaceous earth, silica gel, or permethrin to hiding places around baseboards, moldings, and floorboards. (S)-Hydroprene, an insect growth regulator, is available for use against bedbugs in homes and apartments.
Booklice and paperlice 1/16 inch	Eliminating moisture and humidity usually eliminates booklice. If needed, treat with silica gel, diatomaceous earth, or deltamethrin if needed. Do not treat books directly with pesticides.
Boxelder bug

Pest Management Guidelines A Cornell Cooperative Extension Publication	New York Pest Management Guidelines
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