A Guide to Pest Control in Homes with Kids and Pets
Get essential tips to help manage pesky insects in your home when using pest control products.
Powered by the SC Johnson Center for Insect Science® and Family Health.
Last updated on: 5/15/2026
We take our responsibility seriously
We know how important it is to control unwanted insects while maintaining a comfortable home environment for your children and pets. That's why the experts at the SC Johnson® Center for Insect Science and Family Health have spent 70 years studying insects and developing products designed to help control insects in and around your home.
First things first: What to do before using pest-control products
Read the full product label. Each product has specific usage instructions and precautions that must be carefully followed.
Expert Tip: Check Your Window/Door Screens
Check all window and door screens, if you have them, to make sure they're intact and don’t have any holes. This simple check can help prevent unwanted bugs from coming inside.
How to use pest-control sprays responsibly around kids and pets
- Again, read the full product label. Each product has specific usage instructions and precautions that must be carefully followed.
- If indicated by the product label, keep children and pets outside of the treatment area during and after product application and as directed by the product label.
- Strictly follow any product label instructions concerning the removal or covering of food, food preparation surfaces, eating utensils, or other objects that may be ingested by or come into contact with a child’s or pet’s mouth.
- Apply the product in the manner described on the label instructions. Do not over-apply or use in any manner that is inconsistent with the label. If the label instructs that the treatment area be ventilated after product use, follow the instructions exactly.
- Allow children and pets to re-enter the treated area only as directed by the product label.
How to use insect foggers responsibly around kids and pets
- Read the full product label. Each product has specific usage instructions and precautions that must be carefully followed.
- If indicated by the product label, keep children and pets outside of the treatment area during and after product application and as directed by the product label.
- Strictly follow any product label instructions concerning the removal or covering of food, food preparation surfaces, eating utensils, or other objects that may be ingested by or come into contact with a child’s or pet’s mouth, as well as any instructions concerning ventilation systems, appliances, or pilot lights.
- Apply the product in the manner described on the label instructions. Do not over-apply or use in any manner that is inconsistent with the label. If the label instructs that the treatment area be ventilated after product use, follow the instructions exactly.
- Allow children and pets to re-enter the treated area only as directed by the product label.
How to keep pest-control baits away from kids and pets
Some baits like Raid® Ant Baits III are child-resistant. However, baits should still be stored in an area inaccessible to children and pets, keeping them out of reach.
Follow these essential tips:
- When baits are being used, make sure that they are placed so that they are out of reach of children and pets.
- Store baits in an area inaccessible to children and pets.
- When handling baits, avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing, and wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling.
Key Takeaways
- Always read product labels carefully and follow usage instructions and precautions.
- Keep children and pets outside of the treatment area as directed by the product label.
- Follow product label instructions concerning removal or covering of food, food preparation surfaces, eating utensils, or other objects that may be ingested.
- Apply the product as described on the label instructions, including requirement for ventilating the treated space.
- Allow children and pets to re-enter the treated area only as directed by the product label.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Always check the specific product label for exact re-entry times, as some products may recommend longer waiting periods.
Yes, when used correctly according to label directions.
A variety of pest control methods can be used in homes with kids when used correctly according to label directions. For instance, Raid® Ant Baits III are child-resistant. However, keep baits out of reach of children.
Depends on the pest control products used. Follow all label instructions to understand whether surfaces need to be cleaned after use.
Find solutions to your pest problems
When you're protecting your home from pesky insects, use America's Most Trusted Insect Control Brand.* That's why we have a variety of effective products designed to help you tackle all kinds of insects.
Voted Most Trusted Insect Control Brand by American shoppers based on the 2026 BrandSpark® American Trust Study.Sources
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