If you’re looking at lawn insecticides, you might consider matching up bifenthrin vs permethrin. What’s the difference between the two of them though, and which one is better? We’ll discuss the differences and similarities between them, including efficiency, usage, longevity, targeted insects, how easy it is to use, the side effects of accidental inhalation, which one you should pick, and answer a few frequently asked questions.
Permethrin Vs Bifenthrin: Differences and Similarities
Efficiency
If you don’t know how they work, both are synthetic pyrethroids that interfere with the insects’ nervous systems. Spraying these insecticides on fleas, mosquitoes, and other insects shuts down their nervous systems, paralyzes them, and eventually kills them.
Both insecticides are effective, but permethrin is more efficient and cheaper.
Usage
You might wonder if permethrin and bifenthrin serve the same purpose.
They serve different purposes. Fabric gears and other clothing treatments benefit from permethrin because it holds and fastens well to fabric materials. You can use mosquito netting and tents with it.
Bifenthrin is best for lawn pests and turf. Additionally, it kills various destructive insects. Permethrin and bifenthrin control a wide range of insect species, but bifenthrin is usually recommended for indoor and outdoor use.
Longevity
Additionally, permethrin lasts longer.
Bifenthrin can be used for less than two months without damage. Permethrin can be used continuously for up to three months without causing damage. This is a key factor in the debate between Bifenthrin vs. Permethrin.
Targeted Insects
Permethrin and bifenthrin can kill almost any kind of insect, making them popular for controlling fleas, spiders, cockroaches, mosquitoes, and even wood-destroying insects.
Remember to spray on mosquito larvae rather than mature mosquitoes when killing mosquitoes as it works more efficiently to solve mosquito problems.
Both bifenthrin and permethrin control ticks. Their nervous systems will shut down and they’ll die.
Termites can also be controlled with bifenthrin or permethrin. You should call an expert since it’s complicated and destructive to deal with them.
If you want to know which insecticide is best for what specific insect, see below:
- If you want the best insecticide for outdoor spiders, choose bifenthrin.
- Bifenthrin is recommended over permethrin for killing roaches. With this product, you can create a long-lasting insect barrier that kills roaches on contact.
- Trying to find the best ant insecticide? Choose a solution containing bifenthrin.
- Permethrin is the best insecticide for fleas because it controls adult insects.
- Bifenthrin and permethrin are both good granular insecticide choices.
Ease of Use
Permethrin and bifenthrin are easy to apply if you follow the directions. Mix the products according to the targeted pest and level of infestation.
In one gallon of water, permethrin and bifenthrin mix at 6.4 fluid ounces and 0.12-2 fluid ounces, respectively.
Permethrin works indoors and outdoors. Use a hose and applicator on your lawn for flawless, even distribution of insecticides.
Bifenthrin is also used outdoors. Consider using it around windows, along eaves, around doors, and any other entry points like weep holes.
Permethrin and bifenthrin come in squeezed-and-measured bottles. For measuring with a squeezed and measured bottle:
- Uncap the smaller measuring reservoir.
- Squeeze the bottle.
- Next, use the measurement lines on the reservoir to collect the required amount.
- Fill the spray bottle halfway with water.
- Then add the product.
- Add the remaining water and thoroughly agitate the sprayer.
That’s all, and you can use it now. Repeatedly agitate the sprayer since the products may settle over time.
Follow the directions on the product labels for the proper mix rate and avoid overapplying. Overuse of any product can harm your plants.
Feel free to use permethrin as a flea spray for livestock animals. To ensure proper treatment levels, consult a veterinarian.
Permethrin and bifenthrin work with the following equipment:
- Hose
- Pump sprayer
- Backpack sprayer
- Spraying rig
Spraying rigs are recommended for high-volume applications.
Side Effects
This discussion wouldn’t be complete without discussing the side effects of these insecticides. There is often concern about permethrin and humans.
When used according to the product label and wearing a safety outfit, permethrin is not harmful.
Inhaling permethrin without a safety uniform can cause several side effects. These include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Difficulty Breathing
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
On touching permethrin, you face:
- Itching
- Irritation
- A pins and needles sensation.
Bifenthrin is safe for human use if you take safety precautions. However, if you touch it you could experience:
- Itching
- A pins-and-needles sensation
- Burning at the site where exposure occurred.
Bifenthrin or Permethrin – Which Insecticide Should You Pick?
You probably don’t need to ask this question anymore since we explained everything about permethrin and bifenthrin. It’s your turn to choose one that fits your needs. Where and how you apply the insecticide is totally up to you.
If you want our recommendation, we recommend bifenthrin because it kills many insects, doesn’t smell, and has other advantages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does bifenthrin take to work?
In most cases, it is recommended as a preventative control. The insects’ bodies slowly absorb it. It takes a few hours to kill the insects.
Can I mix the two insecticides?
No, don’t do this.
Do rains wash away permethrin?
Just one day of rain won’t wipe out the treatment. However, it may make the treatment less effective.
How long does an application of permethrin spray kill insects?
It lasts about six weeks.
That’s what you need to know about bifenthrin vs. permethrin. When choosing an insecticide, consider what kind of bugs you’re trying to kill, where you’re trying to kill them, and how long you need it to work. Once you figure these things out, you’ll be able to choose the best insecticide for your lawn. We hope you enjoyed this article on Bifenthrin vs. Permethrin.