
Carpet beetles are a nuisance in most UK homes. As per research by The British Pest Control Association, these pests have now overtaken clothes moths as the most common textile pest reported in domestic properties.
Once they enter your home, you can be sure they won’t leave without a fight. They’ll destroy your carpets, furniture, and soft furnishings until you can’t tolerate them anymore.
But you don’t have to wait for it to get that far. And if you’re already there, a good carpet beetle spray is all you need to start tackling the infestation.
In this post, we’ll show you the best carpet beetle sprays to buy in the UK — the ones that actually kill the problem, not just delay it.
What Makes a Good Carpet Beetle Spray?
A good carpet beetle spray should kill fast, keep working after it dries, and be safe around pets and people. That sounds simple, but many products fall short. Some smell awful. Some leave marks. Others only knock out a few bugs on contact and don’t do anything about the bigger infestation happening out of sight.
To ensure you make the best choice, let’s see what separates a good carpet beetle spray from one that’s just wasting your time and money:
1. Kills Both Larvae and Adults
The most effective carpet beetle sprays are the ones that kill both larvae and adult beetles. Why? Because if you only kill one and leave the other, you’ve done nothing. Adults lay the eggs. The eggs hatch into the larvae responsible for all the damage you see.
So, kill the adult and leave the larvae, and the damage continues. Similarly, kill the larvae and leave the adult, and the cycle just restarts. The best way is to kill all at once and solve the infestation problem completely.
2. Has a Residual Effect That Lasts
A quick kill might feel satisfying, but it’s not enough. Carpet beetle eggs hatch over time, and if your spray stops working after a few hours, you’ll be back to square one in a week.
The best products keep working long after they dry, often for 7 to 21 days.
This extended protection is key to breaking the infestation cycle. It means any larvae that hatch after the first spray still don’t stand a chance. No residue means no second line of defence.
Read more here: 👉 How to Identify and Get Rid of Black Carpet Beetles
Tip:
Vacuum your carpets and affected areas thoroughly before spraying. It helps lift the fibres so the spray can reach deeper.
3. Safe to Use Around People, Pets, and Fabrics
You’re not spraying an empty shed — you’re treating places like your bedroom, sofa, or hallway rug. That means the formula needs to be safe.
Look for options that are labelled pet-friendly, non-toxic, or suitable for indoor domestic use.
Water-based sprays tend to be safer than solvent-based ones, and many now use ingredients that won’t irritate your skin or lungs.
4. Doesn’t Leave a Mess Behind
Some sprays work great but leave you with greasy stains or a strong chemical odour that lingers for days. Others might discolour fabrics or damage delicate upholstery.
A quality spray should be labelled as non-staining or fabric-safe, with a scent that either fades quickly or smells reasonably clean. If you’re spraying large or high-traffic areas, this matters a lot more than you’d think.
5. Includes an IGR (Insect Growth Regulator)
This is a hidden gem in pest control products. IGRs don’t kill adult beetles outright. Instead, they disrupt the life cycle, stopping larvae from maturing and eggs from developing.
This might not sound dramatic, but it’s one of the most powerful tools for long-term control. If you see ingredients like methoprene or pyriproxyfen, that’s a big win.
6. Delivers a Fine, Even Spray
Spray pattern matters more than people realise. A heavy squirt can just blow the bugs away or drench the carpet unnecessarily.
A fine mist spray allows the product to settle deeply into fibres, baseboards, cracks, and corners — right where the bugs are hiding. It’s not just about coverage; it’s about reaching the places they love most.
7. Balanced Between Strength and Comfort
Not every infestation calls for an industrial-strength chemical cocktail.
For mild or early-stage problems, plant-based or essential oil sprays (like cedarwood or peppermint) might do the trick, and leave your room smelling decent, too.
But if things are out of control, don’t feel bad about reaching for something stronger. Just make sure it’s still safe for indoor use.
Bonus: Know the Limits of Sprays
Even the best carpet beetle spray won’t kill the eggs — that’s just biology. The eggs are well hidden and protected, and sprays can’t reach or affect them. That’s why a single treatment isn’t enough.
The first spray should kill live adults and larvae. The second — usually 7 to 10 days later — is what takes out the new hatchlings before they cause damage. If you skip that second round, the cycle starts all over again.

More help here: How to Prevent Carpet Beetle Infestation
TIP:
Always follow the instructions on the label. More isn’t better — timing and technique matter more than flooding your home with product.
Our Expert’s Take
“The right spray depends on the problem you’re dealing with. What works for someone with a few beetles on the windowsill might not work for a full-on carpet infestation in a guest room.
But if you stick to the basics — kills both larvae and adults, lingers long enough to finish the job, and won’t wreck your furniture — you’ll be well on your way to taking back control.”
Top 10 Best Carpet Beetle Sparys in The UK
1. Ready Steady Defend Carpet Beetle Killer Spray – 1 L
Best for: Whole-room infestations and long-term protection
Why it works:
This spray is a powerhouse for serious infestations. It combines 0.1% cypermethrin for fast knockdown, 0.01% pyriproxyfen (an IGR) to disrupt larvae development, and 0.05% chrysanthemum extract for its natural insecticidal properties.
The water-based, low-odour formula dries clear and forms a protective barrier that lasts up to 12 weeks—perfect for tackling hidden beetles in wardrobes, carpets, and baseboards.
With over 460+ 4.3★ reviews, one customer reported “no more carpet beetles” after two sprays, while another praised its apartment-wide effectiveness despite pets and asthma concerns.

How to Use Ready Steady Defend Carpet Beetle Killer Spray
- Vacuum thoroughly to expose hidden beetles and eggs.
- Mist evenly over carpets, rugs, skirting boards, and upholstery—not soaker-level, just enough to dampen.
- Let dry for 2–3 hours, keeping pets and children out.
- Reapply after 7–10 days to catch any newly hatched larvae before the barrier breaks down.
Why We Recommend Ready Steady Beetle Spray
This is one of the most complete sprays on the market. It knocks down fast, stops larvae from developing, and keeps killing for up to 12 weeks. Few sprays offer that kind of all-in-one power. It’s low-odour, fabric-safe, and tough enough for full-room infestations. If you want one product that does the job properly, this is it.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Ready Steady Defend 1 L
2. Zero In Carpet Beetle & Moth Killer Spray – 300 ml
Best for: Light infestations and regular spot treatments
Why it works:
This spray offers a water-based, low-odour solution that kills both adult beetles and larvae on contact, leaving a protective barrier behind.
It’s fabric-safe and user feedback says it leaves “no stains or strong odour,” making it ideal for wardrobes, drawers, and soft furnishings.
Many users appreciate its gentle yet effective action, perfect for ongoing maintenance or follow-up treatments after using stronger sprays.

How To Use Zero In Carpet Beetle Spray
- Shake well before use.
- Lightly mist affected areas—carpets, curtains, wardrobes—until damp.
- Let the area air-dry completely (30–60 minutes).
- Keep pets and children away while wet; it’s safe to return once dry.
- Reapply weekly if beetles continue to appear or as a precaution.
Our other guide👉 How to Prevent Carpet Beetle Bites?
Why We Recommend Zero In Carpet Beetle Spray
It’s a solid everyday spray — gentle, low-odour, and fabric-safe, but still effective. If you’re dealing with light activity or want something for ongoing protection, this one fits easily into a routine. No strong smell, no staining, just simple control for wardrobes, drawers, and soft furnishings.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Zero In 300 ml
3. NOPE! CP Carpet Beetle Killer – 5 L
Best for: Frequent treatments or use by professionals/property managers
Why it works:
Designed for heavy-duty use, this water-based formula includes cypermethrin plus an IGR, targeting eggs, larvae, and adult beetles, crucial for breaking the infestation cycle.
Reviewers report seeing results in a week, with one noting effective elimination in a room after repeated vacuuming plus spray.
It’s odourless, non-staining, and HSE-approved for indoor use—ideal for carpets, wardrobes, upholstery, and floors.

How to Use NOPE! CP Carpet Beetle Killer
- Vacuum thoroughly and avoid re-cleaning the area for at least 7 days to let the residue stay active.
- Apply at 25–50 ml/m² using a handheld sprayer: coat carpets, skirting boards, baseboards, inside wardrobes, and under furniture.
- Let dry for around 2 hours before allowing room use.
- For persistent infestations, reapply after 7–10 days.
Why We Recommend NOPE! CP Carpet Beetle Killer
It’s ideal if you need scale and staying power. With 5 litres of pro-grade formula, it’s made for full-house treatments or regular upkeep across multiple rooms. You get strong knockdown, a residual effect, and IGR action — all in one. Great for landlords, professionals, or anyone tired of running out of spray mid-job.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – NOPE! CP 5 L
4. Entopest Insect Killer Spray for Carpets 1L RTU
Best for: Homeowners facing persistent larvae and adult beetle infestations.
Why it works:
Entopest delivers pro-level control in a home-friendly format. This 1 L formula combines cypermethrin with pyriproxyfen (IGR) to attack all carpet beetle life stages: eggs, larvae, and adults.
It’s water-based and non-staining, safe for carpets, furniture, and hard surfaces. Many users report seeing visible results within days, like larvae chewed up dead and adults dropping off walls.
Others appreciate the residual barrier that lasts several weeks post-application.

How To Use Entopest Insect Killer Spray
- Vacuum meticulously to uncover hidden eggs and larvae.
- Shake the bottle, then mist gently over carpets, skirting boards, upholstery seams, and wardrobes—just enough to dampen.
- Let it dry for 2–3 hours with good ventilation.
- Reapply in 7–10 days to eliminate hatchlings and maintain protection.
Why We Recommend Entopest Insect Killer Spray
Entopest stands out for its professional-grade ingredients in a consumer-friendly spray. The 1 L size is a great value for households dealing with moderate to heavy infestations, and the IGR ensures you stop future generations.
Buy on AMAZON: Entopest Insect Killer Spray for Carpets 1L RTU
5. REPELEM Carpet Beetle Killer – 500 ml
Best for: Households needing strong, reliable protection with low toxicity.
Why it works:
REPELEM uses a smart combination of cypermethrin and an insect growth regulator to deal with carpet beetles at every stage — not just the ones crawling around now, but the ones still hiding or hatching later. It’s water-based, doesn’t stink up the place, and it’s safe enough for use around the house.
What really sets it apart is the lasting effect. Once sprayed, it leaves behind a dry, invisible layer that carries on killing for weeks, up to three months in many cases. You can use it on carpets, sofas, even hard floors, and people who’ve tried it say it works quickly without leaving marks or triggering allergies.

How to use:
- Vacuum the target areas thoroughly.
- Shake well and mist carpets, fabric furniture, skirting boards, and edges—just to damp.
- Leave to dry for 2–3 hours with ventilation.
- Reapply after 7–10 days for hatch control; the barrier can last up to 3 months.
Why We Recommend REPELEM Carpet Beetle Killer
REPELEM works on carpets, upholstery, and hard floors — no need for multiple products. The nozzle gives fine, even coverage that reaches into cracks and fibres. It’s simple to use and offers strong, lasting protection for everyday homes.
👉 Buy on Amazon UK – REPELEM 500 ml
6. Natural Home Solutions Cedar & Lavender Repellent Spray – 250 ml
Best for: Eco-conscious users seeking a chemical-free, scent-enhanced deterrent.
Why it works:
This plant-based spray offers a chemical-free option for people who want to repel moths and carpet beetles without harsh ingredients. It uses cedar to kill and lavender to deter, giving up to three months of natural protection.
While it’s not as strong as synthetic insecticides, it’s safe to use around children, pets, and on most indoor surfaces. It also claims to target other pests like silverfish, fleas, and bed bugs.
Best for light prevention rather than heavy infestations, and a good fit for eco-conscious households who want something gentle but still useful for soft furnishings and rugs.

How To Use Natural Home Solutions Beetle Killer
- Spray lightly on wardrobe interiors, clothes, linens, and behind dressers.
- Allow to air‑dry (15–30 mins).
- Reapply every 3–4 weeks, or after vacuuming or moving fabrics.
Must Read: What Is the Woolly Bear Carpet Beetle?
Why We Recommend Natural Home Solutions Beetle Killers
It’s one of the few sprays you can use in sensitive spaces without second-guessing — nurseries, pet areas, even directly on wool rugs. Most natural sprays smell overpowering or fade fast — this one actually lasts, and the cedar-lavender blend doesn’t just mask; it actively repels.
👉 Buy on Amazon UK – Natural Home Solutions Beetle Killer
7. Rentokil Insectrol Insect Killer Spray – 3 x 250 ml
Best for: Fast knockdown in hard-to-reach spots like cracks, skirting, and behind furniture
Why it works:
Insectrol is an aerosol-based insecticide that hits fast and hard. It contains permethrin (0.46%) and d-allethrin (0.13%) — both effective against crawling insects like carpet beetles, especially when sprayed directly into their hiding spots.
What sets this apart is the precision nozzle. It lets you get deep into cracks, under floorboards, and behind kickboards — places that carpet beetle larvae love. It doesn’t soak fabric, so it’s best used as a targeted tool alongside a broader water-based spray.
While it’s not meant for full-room misting, it’s incredibly useful for baseboard gaps, vents, or wardrobes with visible activity.

How To Use Rentokil Insectrol Insect Killer
- Shake well.
- Spray directly into cracks, behind furniture, or skirting boards.
- Do not saturate fabrics — this is for hard surfaces and hidden areas.
- Ventilate well and leave the room for a few hours after use.
- Avoid contact with treated areas until fully dry.
Why We Recommend Rentokil Insectrol
It’s one of the best spot-sprays for carpet beetles you can keep under the sink. Whether you’re dealing with larvae in floor gaps or beetles behind furniture, this gets straight to the source. Use it alongside a carpet-wide treatment and you’ve got both bases covered.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Rentokil Insectrol 3 x 250 ml
8. Doff Ant & Crawling Insect Killer Spray – 1 L
Best for: Budget-friendly, wide-area treatment of carpets and floors
Why it works:
Don’t let the name fool you — this Doff spray isn’t just for ants. It’s a water-based crawling insect killer that works well on carpet beetles, especially when you need to cover large surface areas.
The 1-litre trigger spray is easy to use and covers carpets, laminate floors, and baseboards quickly. It uses permethrin (0.092%) and tetramethrin (0.046%) to kill larvae and adults on contact, making it useful for follow-up sprays after vacuuming.
It’s not as long-lasting as some premium sprays, but for the price, it’s hard to beat for quick knockdown.

How To Use Doff Ant & Crawling Insect Killer
- Shake well and apply a light mist to carpets, rugs, and skirting.
- Let dry for at least 2 hours.
- Keep pets and children away while wet.
- Reapply weekly or after cleaning/vacuuming.
Why We Recommend Doff Spray
This is a solid backup spray — affordable, easy to find, and useful for repeat treatments without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for light infestations or as a second-line option to keep things under control.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Doff 1 L Spray
9. Provanto Smart Bug Killer – 2 x 1 L
Best for: People needing fast results and longer protection
Why it works:
This Provanto spray offers something most don’t: dual action. It kills bugs on contact, then works systemically — meaning it’s absorbed into plant leaves or soft furnishings and continues protecting for up to 8 weeks.
Though originally designed for houseplants and indoor pests, its effectiveness on beetles and larvae hiding in rugs, curtains, or nearby plants is worth noting. The actives (acetamiprid) target their nervous system quickly, with a visible reduction in activity in under an hour.
It comes in a value 2-pack and sprays in a fine, even mist.

How To Use Provanto Smart Bug Killer
- Shake and mist carpets, soft furnishings, or indoor potted areas.
- Do not oversaturate. Allow to dry naturally.
- Keep kids/pets away until fully dry.
- Reapply after 6–8 weeks if needed.
Why We Recommend Provanto Smart Bug Killer
This is a clever hybrid spray — it works both on contact and over time. If you’re also dealing with houseplant pests or want extended coverage without constant reapplication, this saves time and hassle.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Provanto 2 x 1 L
10. Gardeners Corner Beetle Killer Powder
Best for: Treating carpets and rugs with a dry, chemical-based powder
Why it works:
Powders can reach places liquids sometimes miss — like deep into carpet fibres or under heavy furniture where sprays don’t reach. Gardeners Solution insecticidal powder contains permethrin and is designed to kill carpet beetles, fleas, and other crawling pests by contact.
It’s ideal for carpets and rugs that you can leave undisturbed for a few hours. While not an instant solution, it’s a great way to layer in protection and keep killing bugs between spray rounds.
Read Our Full Guide👉: What Is a Varied Carpet Beetle?

How to use:
- Sprinkle lightly over carpets and rugs, especially along walls and under furniture.
- Leave in place for 2–3 hours (or overnight if possible).
- Vacuum thoroughly to remove both powder and dead pests.
- Reapply weekly if needed.
Why We Recommend Gardeners Corner Beetle Killer Powder
It’s a low-effort way to add long-term protection to high-risk areas. If you’re already spraying, this gives your floors backup coverage. Especially handy for large carpets, flats with pets, or rental units.
👉 Check prices on Amazon UK – Gardeners Corner Beetle Killer Powder
Comparison Table For The Top 10 Best Carpet Beetle Sprays
Product | Best For | Works On | Residual Effect | Pet-Safe? | Type |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. Ready Steady Defend 1 L | Whole-room infestations | Adults + Larvae + Eggs | Up to 12 weeks | ✅ Yes (when dry) | Water-based spray |
2. Zero In 300 ml | Spot treatments | Adults + Larvae | ~1 week | ✅ Yes (low odour) | Water-based spray |
3. NOPE! CP 5 L | Large-scale use, landlords | Adults + Larvae + Eggs | Up to 12 weeks | ✅ Yes | Pro-use water-based spray |
4. Entopest 1 L RTU | Persistent beetles | Adults + Larvae + Eggs | Several weeks | ✅ Yes | Water-based spray |
5. REPELEM 500 ml | Long-term barrier | Adults + Larvae | Up to 3 months | ✅ Yes | Water-based spray |
6. Natural Cedar & Lavender 250 ml | Chemical-free repellent | Larvae (mild) | 3–4 weeks | ✅ Yes | Natural spray |
7. Rentokil Insectrol (3 x 250 ml) | Cracks & behind furniture | Adults + Larvae | Short (spot only) | 🚫 Avoid fabrics | Aerosol |
8. Doff Ant & Insect Spray 1 L | Wide-area use on floors | Adults + Larvae | ~1 week | ⚠️ With care | Water-based spray |
9. Provanto Smart Bug Killer (2 x 1 L) | Fast kill + long action | Adults + Larvae | Up to 8 weeks | ✅ Yes (dry) | Systemic + contact spray |
10. Gardeners Corner Beetle Killer Powder | Under rugs, carpet edges | Adults + Larvae | Ongoing until vacuumed | ⚠️ Use in empty rooms | Insecticidal powder |
How to Use Carpet Beetle Sprays Properly
Spray alone won’t fix it — but used the right way, it gives you the upper hand.
- Vacuum first: Get right up to skirting boards, corners, under furniture, and into vents. Remove as many larvae as possible before spraying.
- Target where they live: Don’t just mist the open carpet. Focus on cracks, gaps, backs of wardrobes, under rugs, and inside airing cupboards.
- Repeat in 7 to 10 days: Eggs will hatch after your first spray. The second round catches the newborns before they grow.
- Keep windows open: Most sprays linger. Make sure the space is well ventilated and keep pets and kids out until everything is dry.
- Don’t spray everything: Some products can stain or discolour. Always do a spot test on fabrics first.
Compare pests: Carpet Beetle Larvae vs Bed Bug: How to Spot the Difference
Pro Tip:
Wear gloves. Not because it’s fancy — but because some sprays sting on sensitive skin.
Can I Use Carpet Beetle Spray on Furniture and Clothes?
Sometimes — but check the label first. If the spray is fabric-safe (like Acana or Smite), then yes. Always do a patch test on a hidden area to be sure.
Spraying furniture is fine if it’s upholstered or carpeted. For clothes, it’s better to wash or freeze affected items, then spray the wardrobe or drawer, not the clothes themselves.
Good to Know:
Never spray insecticide directly onto bedding, soft toys, or baby clothes. Bag and freeze those instead.
Spray vs Fogger vs Powder – Which Is Best?
- Sprays give you control. They let you hit hotspots directly and usually leave behind a protective layer.
- Foggers are great when beetles are widespread. They fill the room but can’t reach deep into carpets or under furniture.
- Powders are ideal for hard-to-reach spaces, like floorboard gaps and voids behind walls.

Try This:
Do a combo attack. Spray all key areas, fog the whole room, then lay powder in cracks and edges. Few infestations survive that.
Final Thought: Don’t Rely on Spray Alone
Sprays are your hit squad — but not your clean-up crew. If you skip the vacuuming, ignore hidden eggs, or forget the second round, carpet beetles will be back before your carpet dries.
Tackle it all at once. Clean thoroughly. Spray deeply. Repeat as needed. That’s how you win.
And if they still come back? It’s time to call in a professional.
More to read 👉 How to Get Rid of Carpet Beetles in the UK
Quick Summary: Which Carpet Beetle is Good for You?
Your Situation | What You Need | Recommended Type |
---|---|---|
Whole-room infestation | Long-lasting spray with IGR | ✅ Ready Steady Defend or NOPE! CP |
Light activity near clothes or drawers | Gentle, fabric-safe formula | ✅ Zero In or Natural Cedar & Lavender |
Rental or multi-room treatment | Bulk spray with pro-grade ingredients | ✅ NOPE! CP 5L |
Quick knockdown in corners/cracks | Spot spray with strong actives | ✅ Rentokil Insectrol |
Eco-conscious and pet-safe | Plant-based formula with a mild scent | ✅ Natural Home Solutions |
Need something long-lasting | Barrier spray lasting 8+ weeks | ✅ REPELEM or Provanto |
Want extra protection between sprays | A powder for under rugs and edges | ✅ Gardeners Corner Powder |
👉 Still unsure? Go for a combo: a broad spray for surfaces + a spot spray or powder for cracks and hidden gaps. That’s what gets the job done properly.
Carpet Beetle Sprays: Common Questions Answered
What spray kills carpet beetles instantly?
Sprays that contain cypermethrin or permethrin are your best bet for a fast kill.
These ingredients work on contact, knocking down both adults and larvae within minutes.
Products like Ready Steady Defend and REPELEM are trusted by UK households for their rapid action.
Do carpet beetle sprays really work?
Yes — but they work best as part of a full treatment plan.
A good spray kills live beetles and larvae and leaves behind a residue that carries on killing for days or weeks.
But if you don’t vacuum thoroughly or reapply after 7–10 days, you’ll likely miss eggs that hatch later.
How long does carpet beetle spray last?
Some carpet beetle sprays only work for a day or two, while others — especially those with insect growth regulators (IGRs) — keep working for up to 12 weeks.
This long-lasting barrier is key to stopping newly hatched larvae before they cause more damage.
Are carpet beetle sprays safe around pets?
Most UK sprays are low-odour, water-based, and HSE-approved for indoor use.
But always follow the label: keep pets (and kids) out of the treated area until it’s completely dry — usually 1–3 hours.
Natural sprays like cedar and lavender may be gentler, but not as effective on full infestations.
Can you spray carpet beetle eggs?
Not directly. Most carpet beetle sprays don’t penetrate the egg casing, so the eggs survive the first round.
That’s why a second spray after 7–10 days is crucial — to catch the new larvae before they do damage.
Vacuuming also helps expose hidden eggs before you spray.
Should I vacuum before or after spraying?
Vacuum first — always. It exposes hidden larvae, lifts fibres for better spray coverage, and removes debris that could block the active ingredients.
After spraying, avoid vacuuming for at least a few days so the treatment has time to work.
What is the fastest way to get rid of carpet beetles?
Act quickly and combine tactics.
Vacuum daily (especially around skirting boards, rugs, and furniture), use a high-quality spray that kills both larvae and adults, and wash any infested fabrics at 60°C or higher.
If possible, freeze delicate infested items for 72 hours to kill any hidden larvae.
How do I find the source of carpet beetles?
Look in quiet, undisturbed areas — behind furniture, under rugs, in air vents, or inside wardrobes. Larvae often hide near natural fibres like wool, silk, or feathers.
If you spot holes in jumpers or see shed larval skins (they look like striped husks), you’re close to the source.
What are the ingredients in carpet beetle spray?
Most UK carpet beetle sprays use synthetic pyrethroids like cypermethrin or permethrin — fast-acting insecticides that kill on contact.
Some sprays also include IGRs (insect growth regulators) like pyriproxyfen, which stop larvae from growing.
Natural options may use cedar oil, lavender, or other essential oils to repel.
How does carpet beetle spray work?
The best carpet beetle spray kills on contact, targeting the nervous system of beetles and larvae.
Many sprays also leave a residual film that continues killing insects that crawl over treated surfaces.
If it contains an IGR, it also disrupts the life cycle, preventing larvae from maturing into egg-laying adults.