Bifen IT Vs. Bifen XTS Pesticides: A Detailed Comparison

Bifen IT and Bifen XTS are both professional-grade pesticides manufactured by Control Solutions Inc. They contain the same active ingredient – bifenthrin – a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that is effective at controlling a wide variety of common pests including ants, beetles, mosquitoes, spiders, mites and more.

The key difference between the two products is that Bifen IT is formulated as a concentrated liquid that requires dilution with water before use, while Bifen XTS comes premixed and ready to spray. Bifen XTS contains additional ingredients that allow it to be applied directly without further mixing.

Both Bifen IT and XTS can be used for indoor and outdoor pest control, around the exterior of homes, on lawns and ornamental gardens. When used properly, they provide long-lasting residual control, keeping pests away for weeks after application.

Now let’s take a more in-depth look at each of these bifenthrin pesticides.

A Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Now that we’ve looked at both products separately, let’s directly compare Bifen IT and Bifen XTS side-by-side:

Feature	Bifen IT	Bifen XTS
Active Ingredient	7.9% Bifenthrin	7.9% Bifenthrin
Application Method	Requires dilution with water	Pre-mixed, ready to spray
Pests Controlled	Ants, roaches, mosquitoes, spiders, mites, beetles, etc	Ants, roaches, mosquitoes, spiders, lawn pests
Residual Control	Up to 12 months	Up to 90 days
Odor	Low odor	Slight chemical odor
Approved Use Sites	Indoor and outdoor	Outdoor only
Mixing Required	Yes	No
Package Size	32 oz concentrate makes 10 gallons	32 oz ready-to-spray

As you can see, the products share the same active ingredient and both provide long-lasting control. The main differences come down to the application method and approved use sites.

Bifen IT is more versatile and can be used in more locations, while Bifen XTS is a bit more limited but faster and easier to apply.

Now that we’ve compared the key features and differences between the two products, let’s discuss when you should choose one over the other.

Bifen IT: The Concentrated Bifenthrin Pesticide

Bifen IT is a concentrated pest control liquid that must be diluted with water according to the product label before use. It comes in a 32 ounce bottle, which makes up to 10 gallons of finished spray solution.

Some key features of Bifen IT include:

• Active ingredient: 7.9% bifenthrin
• Versatile pesticide: Labeled for use against a wide variety of common pests including ants, roaches, mosquitoes, spiders, mites, flies, beetles, crickets and more.
• For indoor and outdoor use: Can be applied both indoors and outdoors. Often used as a perimeter treatment around the exterior of homes.
• Long-lasting control: Provides up to 12 months of residual control when applied correctly.
• Odorless and non-staining: Won’t leave behind stains or strong odors like some pesticides.
• Water-based formula: Dilutes easily with water which allows flexibility in application.
• Low odor and non-staining: Doesn’t have a strong chemical odor and won’t stain surfaces.

The biggest advantage of Bifen IT is the economical concentrated formula. A single bottle can make gallons of finished spray. It also allows flexibility in mixing – you can dilute it to different strengths depending on your specific pest problem and location being treated.

The trade-off is that the dilution required is an extra step in the application process. Care must be taken to properly mix the correct amount of concentrate and water.

Bifen XTS: The Premixed, Ready-to-Spray Bifenthrin

Bifen XTS eliminates the dilution step by coming pre-mixed and ready to use straight out of the bottle. It’s designed to be applied without any further mixing required.

Here are some of the key features and benefits of Bifen XTS:

• Active ingredient: Bifenthrin 7.9%
• Premixed formula: Comes ready to spray – no mixing or dilution necessary
• Simple application: Just connect to a hose end sprayer and start treating
• Versatile: Labeled for use on lawns and a variety of outdoor pests
• Long-lasting: Provides 90 days of residual pest control
• Additional synergists: Contains piperonyl butoxide for increased effectiveness
• Convenient packaging: Available in 32 ounce bottle with hose end sprayer

The main advantage of Bifen XTS is the convenience – it’s premixed so you can start spraying immediately without any prep work. This makes it quicker and easier to apply.

The trade-off is that it’s slightly more expensive upfront than buying a concentrate. However, the simplicity of a ready-to-use product can be worth it for many homeowners and busy professionals.

Also Read: Comparison of Raid Bug Barrier And Perimeter Protection.

When To Use Bifen IT And Bifen XTS?

So which is better – Bifen IT or Bifen XTS? The answer depends on your specific situation and preferences.

Here are some guidelines on when to choose each product:

Use Bifen IT if you want:

• To use indoors and outdoors
• Longer residual control (up to 12 months)
• Flexibility in mixing your own spray solution
• A cost-effective concentrated formula

Use Bifen XTS if you want:

• A ready-to-spray formula with no mixing
• Quick and easy outdoor applications
• Shorter 90-day residual control
• Just occasional outdoor pest treatments

Other Factors:

• If you need to treat indoors, go with Bifen IT. Bifen XTS is outdoor-only.
• Bifen IT allows more precision in mixing but requires extra effort.
• Bifen XTS is more expensive upfront but quicker to apply.

As you can see, there are good reasons to choose either product. Consider which features and benefits are most important for your individual pest management needs. Both Bifen IT and XTS are high-quality bifenthrin pesticides, so you’re getting excellent control either way.

Application Tips And Precautions

Whichever product you choose, proper application technique is important for getting the best results. Here are some tips when using Bifen IT or Bifen XTS:

• Carefully read and follow all label directions regarding mixing, dilution, application rates, and approved use sites. This is the law.
• Calibrate your sprayer properly to apply the right amount of pesticide per area. Don’t under or over apply.
• Target pest entry points and hiding places like along walls, window and door frames.
• Apply as a perimeter band treatment around the exterior foundation of structures.
• Reapply every 90 days for best residual control with Bifen XTS or every 12 months with Bifen IT.
• Always wear proper protective equipment like gloves, eye protection, pants, and long sleeves when mixing and spraying.
• Keep children and pets away from treated areas until completely dry.

Using bifenthrin according to the label is low-risk for humans and pets when allowed to thoroughly dry before re-entering treated areas. However, bifenthrin is highly toxic to fish and bee populations. Avoid contaminating water sources or spraying blooming plants that bees frequent.

Also Read: Comparison of Terminix And EcoShield For Pest Control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Wrapping Up

In summary, Bifen IT and Bifen XTS are both quality bifenthrin pesticides that offer long residual control for a variety of pests. Bifen IT is best for versatility, allowing both indoor and outdoor uses, while Bifen XTS is optimal when you need a faster, ready-to-spray convenience solution.

Consider your specific needs and preferences for mixing, application sites, and length of control when deciding between the two. Both products deliver excellent results when applied properly as part of a comprehensive pest management program.

Employ other preventative measures as well like sealing cracks, eliminating standing water, and keeping vegetation trimmed away from structures. By understanding the differences between Bifen IT and Bifen XTS, you can make the most informed choice for your situation.