Treatments · Pyrethroids
Bifenthrin
A synthetic pyrethroid used in residual sprays and granules for a range of crawling insect pests.
Updated October 4, 2026 · Educational ingredient reference
Quick reference
- Chemical family: Pyrethroids.
- Example forms: Liquid, Spray, Granules, Aerosol.
- Example target groups: Ants, Cockroaches, Crawling insects.
- Use context: Residual insecticide; sites vary by product.
- Targets and forms vary by product. The exact label governs permitted pests, sites and methods.
What is it and how does it work?
Bifenthrin interferes with insect nerve signals after contact or ingestion. It belongs to the same broad chemical family as permethrin and deltamethrin. NPIC: Bifenthrin fact sheet explains the underlying ingredient or an example product. An active ingredient is only one part of the finished formulation.
What forms and pests are covered?
Example product forms include liquid, spray, granules, aerosol. Example target groups include ants, cockroaches, crawling insects. These are drawn from different labels and references, not a claim that every product treats every listed pest. Check the label for the exact species, life stage and use site.
How is it used in pest management?
Products are used for labeled structural, lawn and landscape treatments. Granules and sprays serve different jobs; a lawn formulation is not automatically an indoor product.
Identify the pest, correct food or moisture problems, close entry points where appropriate, and monitor the result. See our integrated pest management guide. A recurring infestation calls for reassessment, not an automatic stronger dose.
What cautions matter?
NPIC identifies high toxicity to fish, aquatic invertebrates and bees. Runoff from treated soil can carry it into surface water. Skin contact can cause tingling or irritation.
Prevent children and pets from contacting stored or applied products. Follow the exact label for protective equipment, ventilation, return intervals, storage and disposal. Do not transfer a pesticide into a drink or food container. Read the label safety guide before selecting a product.
What are its limits?
A residual spray cannot remove food, repair entry gaps or guarantee elimination of a hidden nest. Changing to another pyrethroid may not solve resistance.
The same ingredient in a garden, structural, aquatic or pet product does not make those products interchangeable. This page does not verify current Texas registration, recommend a brand or provide dilution rates, placement quantities or a treatment prescription. Manufacturer sources describe example products, not every formulation.
Where should you check before using a product?
Use the label attached to the exact product you intend to use. Confirm its target pest, permitted site and application method. Check any professional-use restrictions and applicable Texas rules. NPIC explains how to read a pesticide label. Older fact sheets remain useful background, but the current product label takes priority.
For suspected human exposure, follow the label's first-aid instructions and contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222. Call 911 for severe symptoms. For suspected pet exposure, contact a veterinarian immediately.
This field guide is educational and does not offer treatment bookings.
Sources
Related pest dossiers
- InsectsAn indoor suspect. Learn the identifying marks, food and moisture fixes, and bait options.
- InsectsA large outdoor suspect. Check drains, damp hiding places and the way indoors.
- InsectsA damp-ground suspect. Check crawl spaces, drains and gaps before reaching for spray.
- InsectsAn outdoor suspect with two looks. Inspect meter boxes, slab joints and incoming plants.
- InsectsA yard suspect with a sting. Identify the mound and understand the Texas two-step.
- InsectsA kitchen-trail suspect. Find the route, remove food and look beyond the workers.
- InsectsA wood-void suspect. Check moisture and nesting signs before blaming termites.