What Pesticides Are Safe for Home Use?

Before reaching for a spray bottle, know how to choose the right pesticide—and when to skip it altogether.

Minimizing pesticide use reduces the risk to vulnerable household members, such as children and pets. ArtCreationsDesignPhoto/Shutterstock

Managing pests, including weeds, is a necessary evil when it comes to owning a home. Pesticides can be a useful tool to attack those little critters or weeds. But with pesticides comes the inherent risk to people, pets, and the environment.

Choosing pesticides with low toxicity is a good start. It all comes down to educating yourself so you can make the right choices regarding pesticide use.

Pesticide Is the Umbrella Term

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, pesticides encompass substances that prevent, repel, or mitigate a pest.