An effective method to avoid mosquitoes on or around your property includes cleaning out gutters that hold debris or leaves, in addition to dumping stagnant water sources such as bird baths, kid toys, and pool covers,” says Cindy Mannes, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs for the National Pest Control Association, whom we consulted with for this article. After talking with Mannes, we reviewed mosquito traps from indoor to outdoor, based on their effectiveness, coverage, and cost. Our top choice was the Dynatrap 1/2-Acre Insect and Mosquito Trap. Here are the 8 best mosquito traps. Who also chose it? Bob Vila For a mosquito trap that can do it all, pick up the Dynatrap. This powerful trap not only covers large indoor and outdoor spaces, it is also portable and effective. The Insect and Mosquito Trap offers what the manufacturer considers “3-way protection.” First, the unit uses UV light and carbon dioxide to lure mosquitoes to a whisper-quiet fan. Then, the fan vacuums them into a chamber, where they meet their demise. Unlike comparably effective models, Dynatrap’s lantern-style unit is completely free of pesticides and chemicals. It also features a unique twist-on/twist-off feature to ensure that no pests can escape even once the unit is turned off. For maximum efficiency, Dynatrap recommends using the trap for a full six weeks to break the breeding cycle. Price at time of publish: $119 This trap uses a 15-watt ultraviolet light to lure skeeters in, and then they are disposed of when they contact the electronic grid, so there are no pesticides, propane, or glue to worry about. The manufacturer says the trap is effective for up to half an acre. For those who are eco-conscious, you also can use an optional mosquito attractant cartridge containing octenol, which is not harmful to humans or the environment. The cartridge is designed to last for 30 days. The attractive, lantern-like design blends in with surroundings and is also weather-proof. For best results, place the trap 25 feet away from any area used for gatherings. It comes with a 9-inch cord for mounting. Price at time of publish: $49.99 The compact size and inconspicuous design of Gardner’s UV trap make it easy to hide it in any room where you have a pest problem. To use, remove the protective coating on the adhesive board, and insert it into the unit. Then, plug the unit into your outlet, and you’re all set. For maximum effectiveness, replace the adhesive strips once a month, and replace the UV light annually. Price at time of publish: $39.99 The trap works by luring insects with UV light. Then, a fan sucks them down into the machine and to a glue trap at the bottom. The fan prevents them from generating enough lift to escape, while the glue immobilizes them until they perish. The unit weighs only 1.37 pounds, making it easy to pack for camping and other outdoor trips. For the best results, use the device with all other lights off for at least three consecutive nights. Price at time of publish: $39.99 Like the company’s standard model, this unit also offers three-way protection for up to half an acre. The fluorescent UV bulb produces warm light, while a titanium dioxide-coated surface releases CO2 to mimic the lure of humans. A whisper-quiet fan pulls and traps the insects inside a catch basket located at the bottom of the unit without zapping them, and they eventually die there. While this model is durable enough to withstand extreme weather conditions, it can also be mounted inside or hung with an included chain. Price at time of publish: $144 Easily portable, these 6-by-8-inch sticky yellow paper traps work for indoors and outdoors. They are waterproof, UV-resistant, and long-lasting, meaning they can be left outside in a garden or on a patio for an extended period and remain effective. The dual-sided feature allows them to cover more space, and cleanup is as easy as can be. Simply throw them away once they are covered, and replace. For the best results, hang these traps during the start of the warmer months before pests begin to multiply. Be careful, because this trap can stick to anything, including curtains and linen. Price at time of publish: $19.99 The design also has safety features in mind, with a screen in front of an electric grid that prevents curious fingers or paws from meeting it. The bottom opens to reveal a rotating, removable tray that can easily be washed out and reinserted. We love that this trap does not involve any scented bait and features a portable size. Price at time of publish: $24.99 The light is blue, an unusual find in mosquito products, considering UV lights usually have a purple hue. The blue light is designed to also help you sleep more easily, making this a great choice for those who need extra shuteye. It does require replacing the LED UV lights, however, as well as your own equipment to hang this model. Price at time of publish: $59.99
Heat: A few of the traps showcased mimicked our body temperature, which is a natural attractant to mosquitoes as they are on the prowl for a blood meal from a warm animal.UV Light: Most insects are attracted to UV light, as they can generally see within the range of this spectrum. At night, this is particularly enticing and a great, safe, chemical-free way to attract biting flies easily.Sticky Traps: Many that feature the above also use a sticky card in the bottom in order to make sure flies do not just turn around and leave. These can easily be thrown out and do not contain chemicals.Zappers: Zappers use voltage to provide an electric shock to an insect that dares to get to close.
Effective Period
Most mosquito traps promise at least 24 hours of effectivity. Light traps can be turned on and off, increasing the longevity. Many manufacturers recommend leaving the products on for a set time to take care of most mosquitoes concentrated in an area.
Ease of Use
Some mosquito traps are easier to use than others. Some involve being hung from a significant height and may require extra hardware. Many light traps and zappers have sticky boards or need to be emptied regularly. All traps featuring lights or filters need to have those refilled when they have reached their end of life.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Amanda Rose Newton, a freelance writer and garden reviewer for The Spruce. As an entomologist, she delighted in personally testing out the products to provide advice to those with different needs, homes, and price points when it comes to pest control. She also spoke with Cindy Mannes, Senior vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Control Association. To make this list, Amanda Rose tested each product over the span of two weeks, evaluating each on setup, positioning, and cleanup, as well as overall effectiveness.
