Just when you thought having bed bugs couldn’t get any worse, the pyrethroid resistant bed bug came along.
What is a pyrethroid resistant bed bug?
Gradually, throughout the United States, small pockets of bed bugs have built up a resistance to pyrethroid insecticides that are commonly used to eliminate bed bugs due to their low cost and fast acting nature.
Pyrethrum, not to be confused with pyrethroid, is an insecticide derived from dried flower heads, specifically Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium and Chrysanthemum coccineum. However, due to its rising cost and difficulty to source mid way through the 20th century, chemists began researching ways to produce pyrethrums synthetically.
Shortly thereafter, pyrethroids were born. Pyrethroids include a large variety of artificial pyrethrums and have proven very effective in killing bed bugs. However, certain colonies of bed bugs have built up immunity to these synthetic chemicals. These bed bugs tend to have a tough outer shell that prevents the insecticide from entering their bodies. Crazy, right?
Times article on Why Bed Bugs are Becoming So Much Harder to Kill, discussing the studies on chemical types and usage. The reduced effectiveness of these chemicals is considered a main cause of the bed bug’s resurgence over the last decade, especially in big cities.
And there’s more. Due to their hitchhiking skills, pockets of these bed bugs are not isolated to one particular region of the United States. They can be anywhere, literally. Unfortunately, there is no known way to identify a pyrethroid resistant bed bug by its appearance. You can assume you are dealing with a pyrethroid-resistant strain if the continued use of a pyrethroid-based product does not take care of the problem.
The EPA breaks down some of the types of pesticides used to control bed bugs.
How do I identify pyrethroid-based products?
Pyrethroid chemicals come in different variations but often end in “thrin” or “ate.” In most cases, these chemicals will get rid of the bed bugs quickly and efficiently. However, if you don’t want to take any chances, use Harris Black label. Our black label is approved for use in residences and kills even the toughest pyrethroid resistant bed bugs.
For more information about effective application of Harris bed bug products, see this post.
Riley Sizelove says
December 21, 2015 at 7:59 amHi Shirley,
The Black Label should be listed under either Bed Bug or its own category, “Black Label” – if your still not having any luck, feel free to order via Amazon.com by searching “blkbb”. The gallon and quart should both be available.
Thanks,
Riley
Shirley Riggins says
June 26, 2017 at 5:25 amThanks Riley! You’re the best! How much is s/h if I want to order both from the company?
Riley Sizelove says
June 26, 2017 at 7:02 amHello,
My pleasure – shipping is free if ordered from our website via Credit Card.
Thanks,
Riley
Kanetha Callahan says
May 26, 2016 at 6:52 pmWill the black label kill the other kind too?
Dave says
May 27, 2016 at 7:42 amHi Kanetha,
I am not sure what you mean by “other kind”, but the black label is EPA approved to kill pyrethroid resistant bed bugs as well as your typical bed bugs.
I hope this answers your question and the product works well for you – if you have any other questions, comments or concerns feel free to reach out!
For more detailed information, please refer to our bed bug brochure and videos.
Thanks,
Dave
Dez says
August 19, 2019 at 3:26 pmSo the yellow kind dont work just the black label
Riley Sizelove says
August 20, 2019 at 2:48 pmHarris Bed Bug Powder (diatomaceous earth) clings to the bed bugs and slowly dehydrates them until they die. This is a gradual process. Bed bugs emerge gradually over time. For best results leave powder in place for an extended length of time such as a couple of weeks or longer. Both Harris bed bug killing powders dehydrate all types of insects in this manner. Thank you. P.F. Harris.
Kimberly Sisco says
September 23, 2016 at 4:03 pmHow long does the product last and how long does it kill them after you treat the bed bugs issue
Pat Harreld says
September 26, 2016 at 12:32 pmThe product will remain effective when stored away from extreme heat or extreme cold for several years.
Harris Bed Bug Killer will continue to kill crawling bed bugs after the spray has dried for 7 to 10 days. Repeat treatments
are recommended as bed bugs are known to nest for an extended length of time in cracks and crevices.
Shirley Riggins says
September 27, 2016 at 6:11 pmBest I’ve found on the market,and that’s just the regular formula! Done regularly is great. Can’t wait til I can get the Black Label!
Patricia Massey says
June 22, 2017 at 7:57 amI have used the black label bed bug kit for a month and we are bed bug free. Does this mean we are bed bugs are gone? I have to admit I sprayed the yellow for 3 weeks and then changed to black label when coop ran out of the yellow
Nicole says
July 23, 2017 at 10:24 amWow It’s a bit overwhelming… Smh I’m in a situation where my son has Asthma so I have to be selective on what I use! I took a chance with this product, I spray when he’s not home every chance I get. I have the Earth power down so far he’s good. Thanks from a mother that’s gotta do what I gotta do!
Riley Sizelove says
July 25, 2017 at 6:35 amHello,
I understand the frustrations and sympathize with the asthma variable, however we are happy to hear you’re having positive results. If you ever need any guidance or support feel free to contact our customer service at 800-637-0317.
Thanks,
Riley
B.Harris says
August 19, 2017 at 12:02 pmHow soon can the area be cleaned after application? And what is best to clean with? Also after cleaning should I go back through and spray or apply powder to all base boards and windowsills? Is there an additive I can use in carpet cleaner when cleaning the carpet? Also is there a particular mattress incasesment that works better than others because the ones we originally purchased I believe they were able to get through as there are stains all over them from the bugs dying. Sorry I know this is a lot but my house is in chaos I’m trying to get people back in there rooms and back to some kind of normal life.
Riley Sizelove says
August 23, 2017 at 11:12 amThank you for contacting P.F. Harris. Not sure which products you are referring to. Cleaning with any type of solution may remove the spray or powder and diminish any residual intended to remain after applying. Do your cleaning and then apply the products and let them do their work. No additive recommended for carpet cleaner. The Harris Bed Bug Encasements are recommended. The encasements will not allow insects to come and go. They will die inside the encasement. Please do not hesitate to call if you have additional questions at 1-800-637-0317, Mon. thru Fri., 8 am to 5 pm EST. Thank you.
Anissa L says
February 19, 2018 at 5:55 amIve tried you large spray product purchased off of amazon. Ive finished it 2 weeks ago , yet the nozzle gave me problems and once the biting stopped, a week later I woke up to 3 large bugs near my face. Im fustrated and am hoping I didnt waste money . Anthing i can do
Riley Sizelove says
February 19, 2018 at 9:14 amHello,
I am very sorry for the sprayer not working. Please supply your address and I will have a new sprayer sent out. As it pertains to controlling the infestation, please contact our office – 800-637-0317 – for advice and best methods. We will walk you through the entire process to rid of bed bugs.
Thanks,
Riley