Spectracide vs Raid Wasp Killer
The main difference between Spectracide and Raid wasp & hornet killers is that Spectracide contains the active ingredients Prallethrin and Lambda-Cyhalothrin while Raid contains Prallethrin and Cypermethrin.
Additionally, Spectracide advertises a jet spray reach of up to 27 feet, while Raid sprays up to 22 feet. This article will compare the key features of Spectracide and Raid wasp prays.
Raid vs Spectracide
This table of comparison will provide you with a quick overview of the differences.
| Spectracide | Raid |
|---|---|
 |
 |
| Active Ingredients is Prallethrin, Lambda-Cyhalothrin | Active Ingredients is Prallethrin, Cypermethrin |
| Applicator Range Up to 27 feet | Applicator Range Up to 22 feet |
| Available Sizes 20 oz, 18.5 oz, 20 oz twin pack | Available Sizes 14 oz, 17.5 oz |
| It kills Wasps, hornets, yellowjackets, tent caterpillars, scorpions, ants | It kills Bald-face hornets, mud daubers, paper wasps, yellow jackets |
| Outdoor Use only | Outdoor Use only |
| Non-Staining | Non-Staining |
| Residual Action | Residual Action |
| Remove the nest after 24 hours | Remove the nest after 24 hours |
| The optimal time to apply is during sunset when insects are less active. | The optimal time to apply is during sunset when insects are less active. |
What it Kills
Spectracide Wasp and Hornet Killer is effective against wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, tent caterpillars, scorpions, and ants.
Raid Wasp and Hornet Killer 33 kill bald-face hornets, mud daubers, paper wasps, yellow jackets, and more flying and stinging insects. Both products are designed to eliminate wasp and hornet nests.
Active Ingredients
The active ingredients in Spectracide Wasp and Hornet Killer are Prallethrin (0.025%) and Lambda-Cyhalothrin (0.010%).
Raid Wasp and Hornet Killer 33 contain Prallethrin (0.02%) and Cypermethrin (0.05%) as the active ingredients. The concentrations are slightly different but overall quite comparable.
Non-Staining
Both Spectracide and Raid wasp killers feature non-staining formulas. Spectracide won’t stain most home siding, depending on age and cleanliness.
Raid’s non-staining formula is safe for use on most outdoor surfaces. Still, it’s recommended to test on an inconspicuous area first. Neither product will permanently stain common building materials.
Applicator Range
A key difference is the applicator range. Spectracide Wasp and Hornet Killer spray up to 27 feet with a powerful jet spray.
This allows users to stand farther away from the nest when applying. Raid Wasp and Hornet Killer have an applicator range of up to 22 feet. Both can be applied from a safe distance.
Outdoor Use
Spectracide and Raid wasp and hornet killers are intended for outdoor use only. The aerosol sprays should only be applied to outdoor nests and not used indoors. Proper ventilation is important when using powerful insecticide sprays.
Available Sizes
Raid Wasp and Hornet Killer 33 comes in 14 oz and 17.5 oz aerosol cans. Spectracide offers several sizes, including 20 oz, 18.5 oz, and a 20 oz twin pack with two cans. Consumers can choose the size best suits their needs and the number of nests requiring treatment.
Safety Precautions
Users of both Spectracide and Raid wasp sprays are advised not to allow the product to run off the treated area. Applications should be avoided during rain.
It’s critical to keep a safe distance from the nest and avoid standing underneath it during application. The products are highly toxic to fish, so they should not be sprayed directly into water sources.
Residual Action
Raid and Spectracide wasp killers have a residual effect that continues working after the initial spray application. They both keep killing wasps and hornets that return to the nest over the next few days. This residual action helps ensure the nest is fully eliminated.
Removal of Nests
After treatment, Raid recommends waiting at least 24 hours before removing a treated wasp nest. This allows enough time for the product to take effect fully. Spectracide also specifies waiting 24 hours before nest removal for the best results.
Application Time
For both Raid and Spectracide products, the best time to apply is at sunset when wasps and hornets are least active.
This helps minimize contact with the irritated, returning insects. Users should stand with their back to the wind during application to prevent spray blowback.
Additional Targeted
In addition to wasps, hornets, and yellowjackets, Spectracide Wasp and Hornet Killer is also effective against tent caterpillars, scorpions, and ants.
Raid targets flying stinging insects like bald-face hornets, mud daubers, paper wasps, and more. Spectracide has a slightly broader label for additional pests.
Our Observation
Spectracide provides a longer reach at 27 feet than Raid at 22 feet. This extended range could be safer for large, high nests. Spectracide also covers more pests like caterpillars and scorpions.
However, Raid is a trusted brand that reliably eliminates wasps and hornets. Its non-stain promise gives peace of mind. While Spectracide suits those needing extra reach and pest coverage, Raid is ideal for typical wasp and hornet control.
Carefully inspect your situation and select the product that best fits your specific needs. Regardless of brand, always follow safety guidelines closely when using insecticide sprays.
James E. Butkovich, Pest control maven with a knack for eco-friendly & Chemical solutions. Blogger with a mission to make homes pest-free, one post at a time.
