A bug bomb is a strong insecticide that can eliminate different insects in your basement, including cockroaches and fleas. However, misuse of this product can lead to disastrous results, such as health concerns and even house fires. So what is the proper way to bug bomb a basement? We researched for you and here’s what we found.
Start by preparing the basement before using the bug bomb. Use precautionary measures like removing ignition sources and covering furniture. Once the treatment area is secure, the steps to use the insecticide are the following:
- Close the doors and windows, and turn off air circulation systems.
- Look away as you press the button on the top of the bug bomb.
- Leave the treatment area, and don’t return for a few hours.
Take note that proper preparation is vital to experiencing safe and successful results from bug bomb use. Keep reading as we tackle these safety precautions in greater detail. We’ll also discuss the things you should do after using the powerful insecticide, along with other relevant topics.
How Do You Prepare For A Bug Bomb?
Also called total release foggers, bug bombs should release their fumes in spaces devoid of flammable objects. These products generally release aerosol propellants to help kill different pests in the area. Accidents, such as house fires, can happen if the airborne substance gets in contact with ignition sources.
For instance, bug bombing a basement requires you to disconnect objects that can trigger the beginning of a fire. Some of these items include:
- TVs
- Refrigerators
- Air conditioners
- Stoves
- Space heaters
Additionally, faulty lights and electrical wiring can also act as catalysts to ignite the fumes generated from bug bombs. Remove those objects from the area if you’re unsure if some of the items in your basement can become hazards when you fog the place for pests.
Watch this quick video from the US Environmental Protection Agency, which is about the importance of keeping ignition sources away from bug bombs:
Other Safety Precautions
Aside from removing items that can catch fire from a bug bomb, here are some additional points to think about before using a fogger in your basement:
- Don’t use foggers in enclosed spaces. Avoid using a bug bomb if your basement doesn’t have an opening or vent that leads outdoors.
- Remove children and pet possessions from the area. The harsh chemicals from foggers can latch onto different surfaces, which can pose harm to the health of animals and humans when ingested.
- Put a sign on the door of your basement. The notice should clearly highlight that the area is dangerous to enter without proper safety equipment.
- Stay away from the basement. Don’t enter the space until the gas diffuses significantly.
- Cover furniture. In particular, the fogger’s gas can adversely react to treated furniture, ruining the material.
Moreover, remember to read the product’s label before purchasing a particular total release fogger. Some bug bombs only work on certain pests. Using the wrong insect-killing agent can put unwanted harm to the household.
Furthermore, think about adding ventilation to the space before attempting to use a total release fogger. For example, add a dehumidifier, exhaust fan, or window to a nearby bathroom if that area also has an insect problem. Read this post to learn more about venting basement bathrooms: Does A Basement Bathroom Need A Window?
How To Use A Bug Bomb In The Basement
Proper bug bomb use can help prevent disastrous outcomes. Follow these steps to ensure that you can use the product properly and safely.
- Calculate the approximate volume of the basement. Take note that one bug bomb can help treat a 5,300 cubic foot space. Only use more or less of the product according to the location's requirements.
- Close internal doors, along with exterior doorways and windows.
- Turn off smoke alarms and other air circulation systems.
- Place the bug bomb on a stable and flat surface. Make sure that the point of origin is at the basement's center.
- Take off the bug bomb's plastic cap.
- Put your finger at the top of the white button of the bug bomb, but don't press it yet.
- Look away from the container and press the button.
Things To Do After Using A Bug Bomb
Take note that no animal or human should be on the property while the bug bomb's fumes are still highly active. Follow these steps once it’s safe to return to your home:
- Put on a respirator as the fumes might still be quite strong.
- Enter the basement.
- Open the doors and windows for at least 30 minutes to ventilate.
- Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth.
You can also watch this video if you want an additional explanation of the steps mentioned above:
What Should You Cover When Bug Bombing?
Cover as many objects and surfaces as you can when bug bombing a basement or any other room in your house. Some important things that you need to secure for the insect extermination operation include:
- Carpet and flooring
- Pet bedding
- Couches and other furniture
- Kitchenware
- Electronics
- Living and sleeping equipment
You can use either cloth covers or disposable material as protection. If you choose the former option, make sure to wash the material thoroughly before using it.
Then, prevent another infestation by securing the area. Decrease the humidity, seal leaks, and close gaps in basement walls to prevent entry from insects. Learn more about these precautionary actions by reading this post: How To Prevent Bugs In A Basement Apartment?
Do I Have To Wash Everything After A Bug Bomb?
You don’t need to wash every object in the basement after using a bug bomb. The gas produced by the product will generally dissipate into the air if the space has proper ventilation. However, make it a point to wipe and vacuum the area clean after the operation to remove lingering chemicals on surfaces.
Can You Bomb A Basement For Spiders?
Certain bug bombs work quite well in deterring and killing spiders. Some products you can opt to use are the following:
Hot Shot Indoor Fogger With Odor Neutralizer
Known to be quite powerful, this indoor total release fogger can help control heavy spider infestations with one application. It can also kill other arachnids like fleas, scorpions, and ticks.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Raid Concentrated Deep Reach Fogger
Although this product is marketed to kill ants and cockroaches, it can also help control spiders in basements and other rooms in the house. Plus, it can help keep these pests away from your home for up to 2 months.
Check out this product on Amazon.
Harris Indoor Insect Fogger
This versatile and potent insecticide can kill spiders in your basement. It can also eliminate other insects, including cockroaches, fleas, and mosquitoes. One fogger can treat 2,000 cubic feet, which should be more than enough to fill an average-sized basement.
Check out this product on Amazon.
How Long To Stay Out Of The House After Bug Bombing?
The EPA suggests remaining away from the house for 2 to 4 hours upon using a total release fogger. Entering the treatment area and opening access and ventilation points are important for the gas to safely dissipate.
However, make sure that you step away from the space for another 2 hours to ensure that no leftover gas remains.
Final Thoughts
Make sure to prepare the basement before using a bug bomb. Cover furniture and surfaces, and remove potential fire hazards from the area. Then, keep your eyes and face away from the product as you press the button. Leave the space immediately upon using the insecticide.
Remember to follow safe bug bomb usage. Otherwise, you can put the home and its inhabitants at risk of different dangers.
