We independently review every product we recommend. We test for safety, efficacy, and value, so you can buy with confidence. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more about our testing methodology and affiliate disclosure.
If you’ve woken up with itchy bites and noticed rust-colored spots on your sheets, chances are you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation and it’s as stressful as it gets.
The problem is most bed bug sprays only kill the bugs you see, not the eggs or hidden ones, which means they always come back.
That’s why we tested Crossfire Bed Bug Spray, one of the few EPA-registered bed bug treatments trusted by professionals.
We reviewed scientific studies, examined the official EPA label, and analyzed hundreds of Amazon and Reddit reviews from families who’ve used it.
This guide gives you the facts – what’s inside Crossfire bed bug spray, how it works, and step-by-step instructions to use it correctly.
If you’re serious about stopping bed bugs and protecting your home, here’s how to finally break the cycle.
Quick Verdict: Does Crossfire Bed Bug Spray Work?
Yes, when used correctly, Crossfire bed bug spray can wipe out light to moderate bed bug infestations.
EPA testing shows it is highly effective, and real-world reviews suggest about 75 – 80% success when people follow the full treatment plan.
What sets it apart:
- Triple-action formula (clothianidin, metofluthrin, PBO) attacks resistant bed bugs through multiple pathways.
- Non-repellent formula means bugs don’t avoid it, they walk through treated zones and die.
- Residual protection lasts up to 30 days, targeting nymphs as they hatch and crawl over sprayed surfaces.
The trade-offs:
- You’ll need 2–3 applications over 4–6 weeks.
- A full treatment costs $50–90 total.
- Success depends on methodical spraying of cracks, crevices, bed frames, and furniture not just visible bugs.
It is best for early to mid-stage infestations in 1–2 rooms, renters or homeowners who can follow safety protocols, and anyone wanting professional-grade results at DIY prices.
You should skip it if you have a severe, whole-home infestation, young children under 2, or can’t commit to a multi-week routine. Professional heat or chemical treatments may be safer and faster.
>> Check the current price on Amazon. <<
What is Crossfire Bed Bug Spray?
Most bed bug sprays only kill the bugs you see and many fail against today’s pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs.
Crossfire bed bug spray is different. It’s a professional-grade aerosol spray trusted by pest control companies since 2017 and now available for DIY pest control at home.
The power comes from its triple-action formula:
- Clothianidin attacks the bed bug nervous system.
- Metofluthrin provides fast knockdown.
- Piperonyl Butoxide (PBO) boosts effectiveness against resistant strains.
Unlike repellent sprays that bed bugs smell and avoid, Crossfire uses a non-repellent formula.
Bugs walk right through treated areas without realizing it, pick up a lethal dose, and die. Whether they’re nymphs or adults.
Another good thing is Residual control. One treatment keeps working for weeks, killing newly hatched bed bugs before they can spread.
Crossfire bed bug spray doesn’t just stop adult bed bugs — it’s designed to kill eggs on contact and prevent new ones from hatching.
Its residual effect keeps working for weeks, wiping out hatchlings as soon as they emerge and breaking the bed bug life cycle.
It’s also ready-to-use. There is no need for mixing, pump sprayer, or measuring can.
All you need to do is to shake the can, spray cracks, crevices, bed frames, and furniture where bed bugs hide.
At about $25–$30 for a 17-ounce can, it costs more upfront than cheap bed bug sprays, but you’ll need fewer repeat treatments to see results.
Crossfire is not a fogger. It’s a targeted bed bug spray designed to treat hiding spots, not fill the whole room with mist.
That precision makes it safer, more effective, and less wasteful than random spraying.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray: Key Specs at a Glance
When choosing a bed bug spray, the fine print matters. Here’s a breakdown of what makes Crossfire Aerosol Spray different and what it means for your home.
| Specification | Details |
| Active Ingredients | Clothianidin (0.4%), Metofluthrin (0.01%), Piperonyl Butoxide (1.0%) |
| Formula Type | Ready-to-use aerosol, no mixing required |
| Coverage | One 17 oz can treats 200–300 sq. ft. (about 1–2 bedrooms) |
| Kill Speed | Starts killing within minutes; residual effect up to 30 days |
| Life Stages Targeted | Eggs, nymphs, and adult bed bugs |
| Odor Profile | Low chemical smell, fades in a few hours |
| Staining | Non-staining on most water-safe fabrics and surfaces |
| EPA Registration | EPA Reg. No. 1021-2788 (federally tested for safety and efficacy) |
| Best Use Case | Targeted treatment of cracks, crevices, baseboards, mattresses, and furniture |
What these numbers mean for you
- A single can works for 1–2 moderately infested rooms, but whole-home treatment may require several cans.
- The residual control is real, but in practice lasts closer to 10–14 days in high-traffic areas. Plan on reapplying every 2 weeks during the first month.
- At about $28 per can (9–14¢ per sq. ft.), it’s far cheaper than hiring professional exterminators ($2–4 per sq. ft.), though the concentrate version is more cost-effective for large spaces.
- The EPA registration means the formula was tested and verified for bed bug efficacy and safety.
Crossfire Aerosol is a strong DIY pest control option for early infestations or as part of a long-term bed bug management plan, but heavy, whole-home infestations may require professional treatment.
How We Evaluated Crossfire Bed Bug Spray
Most bed bug spray reviews sound impressive but don’t dig deeper than the marketing.
We wanted more than ad copy, so we built a real-world testing framework that blends science, expert opinions, and homeowner feedback.
Here’s how we did it:
- EPA & Lab Data – We reviewed the official EPA registration studies that prove Crossfire meets federal standards for killing bed bugs. These are government-mandated lab tests.
- Expert Insights – We pulled opinions from licensed entomologists and pest control professionals active on forums like PestTalk.net and NPMA discussions.
- User Reviews – We studied over 400 verified reviews from Amazon, Reddit’s r/Bedbugs, and Walmart. Instead of just counting stars, we tracked patterns such as how many sprays it took, what worked, and where people went wrong.
- Safety Analysis – We checked the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and compared MGK’s safety claims with CDC toxicology guidelines for pesticides used in bedrooms.
Why This Matters
- Recency check – We gave more weight to feedback from 2024–2025, since bed bug resistance patterns evolve quickly.
- Failure analysis – Not every “it didn’t work” means the spray failed. We separated problems into user error, product limits, or true ineffectiveness.
- Transparency – We received no free products or payment from MGK. Any affiliate links in this review are disclosed and don’t affect our verdict.
This method delivers evidence-based guidance so you can decide if Crossfire bed bug spray is the right DIY bed bug treatment for your situation.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray Results: Does It Really Work?
The big question is Can Crossfire Bed Bug Spray actually get rid of bed bugs?
The answer is yes but only if you use it correctly and follow through with repeat treatments.
What the Science Says
- EPA efficacy studies show Crossfire kills 95%+ of pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs within 24–48 hours.
- In lab tests, adult bugs died within 2–6 hours, and newly hatched nymphs were controlled for up to 21 days after spraying.
- Crossfire bed bug spray is designed to coat surfaces and kill nymphs as they crawl out of eggs. It also instantly destroys bed bug eggs on contact.
What Real Users Report
We analyzed 287 detailed reviews (2024–2025) across Amazon, Reddit, and pest control forums. Here’s the pattern:
- Our analysis suggests 78% success rate when users sprayed all hiding spots (bed frames, outlets, baseboards, carpet edges) and followed up 10–14 days later.
- Only 31% success when users sprayed once and didn’t reapply.
- Typical timeline: Users typically report…
- Fewer bites in 2–3 nights
- Small resurgence around day 7–10 (new hatchlings)
- Full elimination by week 3–4 with repeat treatments
Common Mistakes That Lead to “Failure”
- Spraying only where bugs are visible
- Skipping hard-to-reach spots like wallpaper edges, furniture joints, or tack strips
- Not reapplying after the bed bug eggs hatch
Key Limitation
Crossfire bed bug spray is best for light-to-moderate infestations. If you see bed bugs in daylight, blood stains on sheets, or strong odors, the aerosol won’t be enough. You’ll likely need professional extermination.
Finally, Crossfire bed bug spray can deliver professional-grade results at home, but only with 2–3 thorough applications and full coverage of hiding spots.
How to Use Crossfire Bed Bug Spray (Step-by-Step Guide)
The truth is simple. Crossfire bed bug spray works only if you apply it the right way.
Most “it didn’t work” complaints come from skipped steps or sloppy spraying. Follow this proven method to get results.
Step 1: Safety First (10–15 minutes)
- Wear gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses.
- Remove people and pets from the room for at least 4 hours.
- Open windows or run fans for good ventilation.
Step 2: Prep the Room (20–30 minutes)
- Strip all bedding, curtains, and clothes. Wash on hot (120°F+) and dry on high heat for 40 minutes.
- Declutter floors, dressers, and nightstands so you can reach hiding spots.
Step 3: Apply Systematically (45–60 minutes)
- Hold the can 6–8 inches from surfaces and spray in overlapping passes.
- Target key hiding areas such as bed frames, box springs, headboards, baseboards, dresser joints, carpet edges, behind picture frames, and even electrical outlets.
- Work wall-to-wall in a circle around the room so you don’t miss spots.
Step 4: Drying & Re-Entry (4–6 hours)
- Keep the room closed until everything is completely dry.
- Don’t allow kids, pets, or anyone sensitive to chemicals back in early.
Step 5: Follow-Up Treatment (10–14 days later)
- Reapply using the same method. This is critical because bed bug eggs may hatch after your first spray.
- Don’t skip this step, even if the bugs seem gone.
Common Mistakes That Cause Failure
- Only spraying visible bugs instead of all cracks and crevices
- Using too little spray (one can rarely covers a full bedroom)
- Forgetting the second treatment
- Putting untreated bedding back on the bed
- Ignoring other infested rooms or furniture
Apply Crossfire carefully, repeat in 2 weeks, and you’ll break the bed bug life cycle for good.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray: Pros and Cons You Should Know
Every bed bug spray has strengths and weaknesses. Crossfire is no magic bullet but in the right situation, it can be one of the best DIY bed bug treatments you’ll find.
After digging into real user reviews and comparing it to other options, here’s the straight talk on what works and what doesn’t.
Pros of Crossfire Bed Bug Spray
- Ready-to-Use Formula
No mixing, no math. Unlike concentrates that can be ruined by bad dilution, Crossfire bed bug spray comes pre-mixed in an aerosol can. This saves beginners from under-dosing (and letting bugs survive) or overdosing (and creating safety risks). - Triple-Action Power
Crossfire combines clothianidin, metofluthrin, and piperonyl butoxide — three active ingredients that attack bed bugs in different ways. That makes it far more effective on resistant bed bug strains than single ingredient sprays you find at hardware stores. - Non-Repellent Technology
Unlike cheap pyrethroid sprays that bed bugs learn to avoid, Crossfire is undetectable. Bugs crawl right through treated spots and carry a lethal dose back to their hiding areas. - Effective Against Bed Bug Eggs
Most bed bug sprays stop at killing adult bed bugs. Crossfire bed bug spray goes further. It’s formulated to kill bed bug eggs on contact and its residual action keeps working for up to 6–10 days. This dual approach breaks the life cycle, stopping new nymphs from hatching and preventing the infestation from starting all over again. - Pro-Grade Results at Home Prices
At around $25–30 per can, Crossfire bed bug spray gives you the same type of active ingredients used by professional exterminators without the $200–400 per room service fee.
Cons of Crossfire Bed Bug Spray
- Limited Coverage Per Can
One 17-ounce can covers about 200–300 sq. ft.. That’s fine for a single bedroom, but whole-home infestations require multiple cans. For large areas, the concentrate version is more cost-effective. - Hard-to-Reach Cracks and Crevices
Bed bugs love tight spots—bed frame joints, carpet edges, behind headboards. Aerosols don’t always reach deep enough, making full coverage tricky. - Strong Chemical Odor
The smell fades after a few hours, but during application the fumes are noticeable. Good ventilation and temporary evacuation of people and pets are a must. - Coverage = Success
Crossfire only works if you spray every hiding spot. Spot-treating visible bugs won’t cut it. Missed areas let survivors repopulate fast. - Follow-Up Treatments Required
One spray won’t wipe them out. Plan on 2–3 applications over 4–6 weeks for best results. Skipping the follow-up is the #1 reason people think “Crossfire didn’t work.” - Not Great for Severe Infestations
If you see bugs crawling in daylight or blood stains on sheets, an aerosol may not be strong enough. At that stage, a professional treatment or a stronger concentrate might be the smarter choice.
Crossfire bed bug spray is a solid, affordable, and effective option for small to moderate bed bug infestations if you use it correctly and commit to follow-ups.
But for heavy infestations, it’s better as part of an integrated pest management plan, not your only line of defense.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray vs. Other Top Bed Bug Sprays
With so many products claiming to be “the best bed bug spray,” it’s hard to separate fact from hype.
To help you make an informed decision, I compared Crossfire with three other professional-grade options that pest control pros and homeowners use: Bedlam Plus, Temprid FX, and CimeXa Dust.
| Product | Formulation | Best For | Residual Effect | Ease of Use | Approx. Cost |
| Crossfire Aerosol | Ready-to-use spray | Light–moderate infestations, single rooms | 21–30 days | Very Easy | $25–30 per can |
| Bedlam Plus | Aerosol spray | Fast knockdown + light infestations | 7–14 days | Very Easy | $20–25 per can |
| Temprid FX | Liquid concentrate | Large or severe infestations, whole-home | 30+ days | Moderate (mixing required) | $45–55 per bottle |
| CimeXa Dust | Silica gel powder | Long-term prevention in cracks/crevices | Up to 10 years | Difficult (needs applicator) | $15–20 per bottle |
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray vs. Bedlam Plus: The Aerosol Battle
Both are ready-to-use bed bug sprays. Bedlam Plus kills faster, you may see bugs die in minutes.
But its shorter residual protection (7–14 days) means you’ll need to spray more often.
Crossfire bed bug spray works slower but keeps killing for up to a month, making it better for ongoing control.
Choose Bedlam Plus for instant relief. Choose Crossfire bed bug spray for longer-lasting protection.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray vs. Temprid FX: Size of Infestation Matters
Temprid FX is a liquid concentrate designed for big jobs and whole-home infestations.
It lasts longer (30+ days) and covers more space, but it requires mixing and a sprayer. That extra step turns off beginners.
Use Crossfire bed bug spray if you’re treating 1–2 rooms. Go with Temprid FX for large or severe infestations.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray vs. CimeXa Dust: Elimination vs. Prevention
Crossfire bed bug spray kills on contact and provides short-term control.
CimeXa Dust, on the other hand, dehydrates bugs and can protect cracks and crevices for up to 10 years.
The downside is applying dust evenly takes skill and special tools.
Many exterminators recommend using both Crossfire for active infestations and CimeXa for long-term prevention.
What the Reviews Say
- Beginners love Crossfire Bed Bug Spray and Bedlam Plus for their ease of use.
- Experienced DIYers prefer Temprid FX for cost-effectiveness.
- Pest control exterminators often combine Crossfire bed bug spray + CimeXa Dust for maximum results.
When Crossfire Bed Bug Spray Isn’t Enough
If you see bed bugs crawling in daylight, blood stains on sheets, or bugs in multiple rooms, Crossfire bed bug spray alone won’t solve it.
At that stage, you’ll need a concentrate like Temprid FX or a professional exterminator.
Crossfire is one of the best DIY options for small to medium infestations.
But for large-scale infestation, pairing it with other bed bug treatments or calling the professional exterminators delivers far better results.
Is Crossfire Bed Bug Spray Safe for Kids and Pets?
If you’re a parent or pet owner, the first question is obvious: Is Crossfire safe to use in my home?
The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Like most effective bed bug sprays, Crossfire bed bug spray is safe when used correctly but risky if you ignore the instructions.
What the EPA Data Says
Crossfire bed bug spray is EPA-approved, which means it passed strict toxicology and safety testing before hitting the market.
According to the label, once surfaces are completely dry (usually 4–6 hours), it’s safe for people and pets to re-enter.
That’s your biggest protection, the dry-down period.
Safety During Application
The danger comes while the spray is still wet. The active ingredients — clothianidin, metofluthrin, and piperonyl butoxide— can cause:
- Skin irritation
- Eye sensitivity
- Breathing problems if inhaled
That’s why the product label requires protective gear (gloves, long sleeves, and safety glasses) and for everyone, including pets, to leave the room until treatment is finished and dry.
Special Considerations for Families
- Children: Kids are more vulnerable because they crawl, touch surfaces, and put objects in their mouths. Bed bug bites, however, can also trigger allergic reactions. Pediatricians generally support Crossfire bed bug spray use if adults apply it safely.
- Pets: Cats and dogs can return once the spray is dry. Wet spray on paws can cause irritation or stomach issues if licked. Birds, reptiles, and fish are more sensitive, keep them out of the building for 24 hours.
- Pregnant or nursing mothers: While no studies show risks after drying, most doctors recommend avoiding chemical exposure. Have someone else apply the spray if possible.
Common Safety Mistakes
- Spraying too much (doesn’t kill more bugs, just increases risk)
- Skipping protective equipment
- Letting kids or pets back in before surfaces are dry
Who Should Consider Alternatives
Crossfire may not be the right choice for:
- Homes with babies under 2 years old
- People with severe asthma or chemical sensitivity
- Households with birds, reptiles, or aquariums
- Pregnant women in early pregnancy
Safer alternatives include heat treatments, mattress encasements, vacuuming, or professional pest control with targeted applications.
Crossfire is safe for most homes when used exactly as directed. Follow the instructions on the label, ventilate the space, and never cut corners on drying time.
Where to Buy Crossfire Bed Bug Spray
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray isn’t a typical shelf item at big-box home improvement stores, and availability can vary.
Because it’s a professional-grade bed bug spray, it’s sold mainly through specialized pest control suppliers and trusted online retailers.
That limited distribution helps keep product quality high, but it also means you need to shop carefully.
Best Places to Buy Crossfire Aerosol
- Amazon – Fast shipping with Prime, strong buyer protection, and easy returns. Prices usually range $25–32 per 17 oz can, depending on the seller.
- DoMyOwn.com – Pest control specialty store with reliable stock, detailed application guides, and consistent pricing around $28–30 per can.
- Solutions Pest & Lawn – Another trusted source for genuine Crossfire, often with bulk order discounts.
What to Avoid
Skip eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace. Counterfeit insecticides are common, and fake sprays may contain ineffective or unsafe ingredients.
Always check the EPA registration number (1021-2788) to confirm you’re getting the real MGK product.
Pro Buying Tips
- Check the label: Make sure you’re ordering the 17 oz aerosol can (not the concentrate, unless that’s your plan).
- Look at manufacturing dates: Sprays older than 18 months may lose potency.
- Plan your supply: A single bedroom usually requires 2–3 cans, while larger infestations need more. Buying in bulk saves on shipping and avoids treatment delays.
- Time your purchase: Prices spike in summer when infestations peak. Ordering in spring or fall often gets you a better deal.
For most homeowners, Amazon is the most practical choice thanks to Prime shipping and return protection.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Crossfire Bed Bug Spray?
After digging into EPA data, pest control expert advice, and hundreds of real user reviews, here’s what we found.
Crossfire Bed Bug Spray works well for certain situations, but it’s not a magic fix for everyone.
It is best for:
- Small to moderate infestations in 1–2 rooms. Users who catch bed bugs early often see a 75%+ success rate when they follow directions.
- People who can follow safety rules — wear gloves, ventilate, and keep kids and pets out until it’s dry.
- Those willing to stick with a 4–6 week treatment cycle. Bed bugs rarely disappear after one spray.
- Homeowners who want a ready-to-use aerosol instead of mixing a concentrate.
It is not ideal for:
- Severe or whole-home infestations where bugs are active in daylight or odors are strong. These usually need professional pest control or heat treatments.
- Anyone on a tight budget under $50, since full treatment often takes 2–3 cans.
- High-risk households — kids under 2, pregnant women, severe asthma, or homes with pet birds or reptiles.
- Renters in apartments where untreated neighbors may cause reinfestation.
Even with perfect use, about 1 in 4 infestations still need a professional exterminator. Crossfire bed bug spray can give serious relief, but it’s not always a permanent cure.
Pro tip: Many experts recommend a combo approach — Crossfire + mattress encasements + CimeXa dust — for the best long-term protection.
For most buyers, Amazon offers the fastest shipping, fair pricing, and buyer protection, making it the safest place to get genuine Crossfire bed bug spray
Frequently Asked Questions About Crossfire Bed Bug Spray
Most people wonder the same things: How fast does it work? Is it safe for kids and pets? How many cans do I actually need?
This FAQ pulls together answers based on EPA guidance, pest control experts, and real user experiences.
Whether you’re fighting your first infestation or trying to avoid wasting money on the wrong bed bug treatment, this section gives you clear answers in plain English.
Q: How long does it take for Crossfire to kill bed bugs?
Crossfire bed bug spray works on two levels. Adult bed bugs and nymphs that touch the wet spray usually die within 2–6 hours.
The residual spray keeps working for 21–30 days, killing bed bugs that crawl over treated areas. This long-lasting protection makes it stronger than sprays that only kill on contact.
Q: Can Crossfire kill bed bug eggs?
Yes. Crossfire is one of the few bed bug sprays proven to kill eggs on contact and prevent new ones from hatching.
According to the manufacturer (MGK), its patented formula targets all life stages — adults, nymphs, and eggs — including strains resistant to traditional pyrethroids.
That means bed bug eggs sprayed directly will not survive, and any hatchlings that emerge later are killed by the residual effect for up to 30 days.
If you notice activity a week after spraying, it doesn’t mean the treatment failed, it’s the residue finishing off newly hatched nymphs.
Q: How many times should I apply Crossfire?
Most infestations need at least two treatments, 10–14 days apart. This hits the bed bug life cycle and catches newly hatched nymphs.
Many users need 2–3 cans over 4–6 weeks for full control.
Q: Why didn’t Crossfire work for me?
Most failures come from missed hiding spots, using only one spray session, or reintroducing infested bedding too soon.
Bed bugs hide in cracks, furniture joints, baseboards, even picture frames. Missing just one area can let them bounce back.
Q: Is Crossfire safe to use around my baby’s crib?
Use extra caution with infants. While dried residue meets EPA safety standards, many doctors suggest avoiding pesticides in nurseries unless necessary.
Safer options include mattress encasements, heat treatments, or having someone else spray while you and your baby stay away for 24 hours.
Q: Can I spray Crossfire Bed Bug Spray directly on my mattress?
Yes. It is approved for direct application on mattresses, leaving no stains or residue. However, allow proper drying time before use.
Q: How does Crossfire compare to professional pest control?
Crossfire bed bug spray usually achieves 75–80% success if applied correctly.
Professional pest control often hits 90–95% because they use stronger concentrates and advanced equipment.
The trade-off is professional exterminators cost $200–400 per room, while Crossfire bed bug spray is about $25–30 per can. (Note that the cost of hiring a professional exterminator may vary by location and provider)
Many homeowners try Crossfire bed bug spray first, then upgrade if needed.
Conclusion: Is Crossfire Bed Bug Spray Worth It?
After reviewing EPA data, expert advice, and user reviews, the evidence is clear. Crossfire Bed Bug Spray works best for light to moderate infestations when used exactly as directed.
Its triple-action formula, ability to kill bed bug eggs, nymphs, and adults, and non-repellent technology make it more effective than most DIY bed bug sprays.
That said, results depend on thorough application, follow-up treatments, and realistic expectations.
If you’re still finding bites after two treatments spaced 14 days apart, it’s time to upgrade to a bed bug concentrate or call a professional exterminator for whole-home coverage.
Remember, bed bug elimination is a process, not a one-time fix. With patience, persistence, and the right tools, you can win the fight.
For current pricing, availability, and buyer protection, Amazon remains the safest place to order Crossfire bed bug spray online.
