"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
The advent of summer means more late night barbecues and pool parties, but that also means more bugs. And, there’s one thing that almost everyone can agree on: Getting targeted by an invasion of stinging, chomping insects really bites (pun intended). Without a bug zapper to mitigate the flies and mosquitos, your relaxing evening on the deck can quickly turn into a feast for pests that want to munch on your family, guests, or that slab of juicy watermelon.
Bug zappers can rid your yard of mosquitos and other bugs—which can be as dangerous as they are annoying. Mosquitoes carry diseases such as West Nile virus. Many people also have allergic reactions to bites, ranging from irritating rashes to severe medical emergencies.
There are tons of bug zappers available, from those designed for indoor use to those that double as outdoor lights. We’ve laid out some things to keep in mind when looking for your own insect management, and rounded up the best bug zappers we recommend for the summer and all year round.
Best Bug Zappers
What to Consider
Bug zappers emit an ultraviolet light that attracts small flying insects, then zaps them with a fatal shock when they get too close. Some people find the sight or sound of insects getting zapped distracting, annoying, or even distressing—but these devices do work. With that said, there are a couple of factors we recommend considering when buying bug zappers.
Location
Before purchasing a bug zapper, it is important to keep in mind where you plan on putting it. You might want to set up your bug zapper in a strategic location near enough to your gathering area to help protect your space at a distance that keeps the sound and sights from bothering you. Remember, the point is to establish a peaceful, relaxing, annoyance-free haven.
Bug zappers differ depending on whether they’re made for indoor or outdoor spaces. Most bug zappers designed for indoor use contain a tray that collects the dead bugs. Bug zappers designed for outdoor use are not as likely to contain these trays. You might also need an extension cord, even for patio or deck settings, as some products have short cords.
Coverage Area
For maximum insect protection, we recommend fighting pests on several fronts. In addition to a bug zapper, use insect repellent or an insect-repelling device and a citronella candle close to where people congregate. Ideally, you can also create an enclosed space, like a gazebo, protected by netting or other material.
Insect Type
Not all bug zappers are designed to rid of the same kind of insects. If you’re trying to manage mosquitos, make sure to purchase a zapper that specializes in exterminating them. If you’re having an issue with an influx of ants, make sure the bug zapper you purchase is equipped to get rid of them permanently.
We’ve detailed which zappers are intended for which insects to help you find the right fit for your property.
How We Evaluated
Bobbi Dempsey, the original author of this guide, owned a construction business in a rural area for more than a decade, where she used bug zappers to manage mosquitos at job sites near creeks and ponds. She has tested several zappers and determined which features are most important. She’s most familiar with lantern and hanging light bug zappers. Jenna Clark, who updated this guide, researched other zappers, including past Popular Mechanics insect device testing.
We took into account the zappers’ coverage areas, power sources, and energy-efficiency to find the best. We also investigated how the devices handle dead bugs, and made sure to include products that’ll work in various environments and settings.
5,500-Volt Deluxe Bug Zapper
When it comes to insect control, Black Flag is one of the most recognizable names—because its product work. The manufacturer recommends situating this unit at least 20 feet away from where you gather, but with a claimed coverage area of up to 1.5 acres, that doesn’t affect its performance.
Energy-efficient features include an LED light and a dusk-to-dawn sensor that turns the unit on during insect primetime. It’s relatively quiet, and the soft purple light adds some cool ambiance at night. Additionally, it has a clip-on lure that contains octenol, a chemical that attracts insects. Each lure cartridge lasts about a month.
Indoor and Outdoor Bug Zapper
Looking to zap bugs without a messy cleanup? This bug zapper is for you. All you have to do to clean it up is unscrew it and rinse the tray—it can’t get much easier than that.
And, this zapper is weather-proof so you don’t have to worry about rain breaking your trusty zapper. This device uses 4,000 volts of electricity and covers up to 1,500 square feet, so you can expect bugs in your vicinity to have a bad time.
Mosquito Zapper with Octenol Lure
This affordable option is even more impressive when you consider it does double duty as both a bug zapper and a decorative accent light. You can opt to use either or both functions, and the USB-rechargeable battery lasts up to seven hours. The accent light gives off a cool purple glow.
This zapper uses an octenol lure in addition to the UV LED light for dual insect-attracting power (lure cartridges last up to 30 days). This compact, portable unit can be used anywhere indoors or outside—great for an RV, office, or at a campsite.
Half-Acre Mosquito and Insect Zapper
Among the pricier of the models that we’ve evaluated, we recommend this zapper as it offers a stylish look and durable, high-quality construction. And, because it’s not technically a zapper, it’s almost totally silent, so it’s fine to put near seating.
Instead of electric shocks, it wipes out insects with a three-pronged approach: the warm UV light combines with a carbon-dioxide lure created by the specially coated surface to attract bugs, and then the built-in fan ensures that any insects that venture near the device will get drawn in and trapped until they die.
Indoor Bug Zapper
This unit is designed for use indoors or in an enclosed or covered area outside. You get the durable high-quality construction you would expect from Black & Decker and reliable performance.
When using it indoors, we recommend positioning it away from windows at night, or you might discover a high volume of insects swarming around outside the glass or screen trying to figure out how to get to the light.
Solar Bug Lantern with Shepherd Hook
This bug zapper has a classic look that can blend in with your outdoor decor. The fact that it’s solar-powered is a nice energy-efficient and earth-friendly feature.
It’s also versatile, as you can replace the purple UV light with the white LED light (both of which are included) when the seasons change and you only need a regular light.
BK-40DK Electronic Insect Zapper
This bug zapper gets high marks from reviewers for its efficiency and reliability. The polycarbonate material is durable and weatherproof, so it’s great to use outdoors in a range of moderate to harsh climates. It might not be as quiet as some other models, but the large coverage area—and the optional cartridge of mosquito attractant that can boost its results—make this a popular choice.
Electronic Bug Zapper
If you’re looking for an aluminum bug zapper to use indoors, we recommend this 40 watt option from Aspectek. Although this zapper is on the heavier side weighing nearly five pounds, it’s worth the extra bit of elbow grease for its power.
Once moving it to the desired location, setup is a breeze. All you have to do is set it on a solid surface or attach the chain to its hooks. You can worry less about any little ones accidentally getting ahold of the zapper’s electrical grid (thanks to its mesh screen), or getting stung by mosquitos, gnats, flies, moths, or bees when this machine is in action.
Bug Zapper Racket
If you would get some satisfaction out of personally destroying your insect foes, you might enjoy this option—but it should go without saying that to use this, you must be okay with letting insects invade your personal space before you eliminate them.
Like a high-tech version of a fly swatter, the Zap It! Bug Zapper requires some effort but allows you to pursue and safely dispatch unwanted pests, such as moths or stinging insects inside or outside your home. The electric swatter is also available in two smaller models: medium and mini.
Electric Solar Mosquito Killer
This lightweight bug zapper should be added to your cart if you’re looking for a zapper that may also double as a night light. With three lighting modes (the bug zapper light, a white light, and a flashlight), there will never be a shortage of light when it’s turned on.
Plus, it can be recharged with a USB-C cable and lasts for up to 16 hours using the lighting mode when it’s fully charged. Whether you opt to hang this on a hook or keep it resting on a flat surface, you can rest assured bugs all around you will be zapped with its 360 degrees design.
Tools to Create a Bug-Free Backyard, According to Expert Bobbi Dempsey
PM: What’s your preferred design for bug zappers?
B.D.: I tend to like the lantern-style models because they are versatile, offer more options for placement, and often have a decorative look that allows them to blend in discreetly. I’ve also used hanging light models and liked them fine. I’m not a huge fan of handheld models because they involve continuous effort and also require close contact with bugs.
PM: What’s one feature you always prioritize when searching for a new bug zappers?
B.D.: I prefer bug zappers that are as quiet as possible. I’m not a fan of loud zapping noises. Unfortunately, it can be tough to gauge exactly how loud a bug zapper is until you actually use it. This is another reason why I appreciate bug zappers with a large coverage area—that way, you can set it up far from where you’ll be gathering, so the noise won’t be as much of an issue.
PM: What other products do you rely on for warding off bugs?
B.D.: I’m not a fan of harsh chemicals or toxic materials in general, so I try to opt for natural pest repellents whenever possible. I use citronella candles and essential oils such as peppermint. When using bug sprays and similar pesticides, I look for products made from plant-based ingredients. I also use diatomaceous earth as an effective, long-acting way to kill any insects that might get inside the home or garage.
PIC 40-Watt Bug Zapper Kills Bugs on Contact with Blue Light Technology, Black
Black Flag BZ-40-DX 40-Watt Deluxe Outdoor Bug Zapper [Bug Zapper - 40 Watt Deluxe]
You Might Also Like
FAQs
What is the best electric mosquito killer? ›
- Best Overall Bug Zapper. Elechome High-Powered Electric Bug Zapper. $56.99 $33.88. ...
- Best High-Coverage Bug Zapper. Flowtron BK-40D Electronic Insect Killer. ...
- Best Portable Bug Zapper. Dartwood Portable Rechargeable Bug Zapper.
If you're dealing with indoor pests, your best bet is the Aspectek 40W Electric Indoor Insect Killer. This versatile zapper can be hung or placed on any flat surface and kills flies, mosquitoes, moths, and gnats with ease.
What bugs do bug zappers work on? ›- Moths.
- Flies.
- Mayflies.
- Beetles.
- Mosquitoes.
- And more!
How Effective is a Bug Zapper? In terms of overall effectiveness for insect control, bug zappers are highly effective in diminishing pests and can kill as many as 10,000 bugs in just one night. However, they are virtually ineffective against mosquitoes and biting insects.
What smell do mosquitoes hate? ›Mosquitoes are turned off by several natural scents: cinnamon, peppermint, cedar, citronella, lemongrass, patchouli, catnip, lavender, and more. Find a favorite, and use it when you want to spend time outside.
What keeps mosquitoes away from biting you? ›Use 0.5% permethrin to treat clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents) or buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear. Permethrin is an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes. Permethrin-treated clothing provides protection after multiple washings.
What is a natural homemade fly killer? ›A mixture of apple cider vinegar and dish soap can help you trap flies and kill them. Mix about an inch of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap in a tall glass. Cover the glass with plastic wrap, secure it with a rubber band and poke small holes in the top.
How do you get rid of flies indoors ASAP? ›Use a shallow dish bowl and fill it with an inch of apple cider vinegar and a tablespoon of sugar. Next, add some fruit-scented dish soap. You can leave the dish uncovered or tightly covered with plastic wrap. Make sure to poke a few holes in it to attract the flies.
Where is the best place to put a bug zapper? ›Where Should You Hang a Bug Zapper? You'll typically want to hang your bug zapper near the perimeter of your yard, away from seating areas, about 5 to 7 feet off the ground. Aim for at least 15 to 20 feet away from where you usually spend time outdoors.
What is the downside of bug zappers? ›Killing the Wrong Bugs
Based on the study's results, bug zappers are killing beneficial insects like beetles and moths, which can result in negative effects on local ecosystems.
Why do people not use bug zappers anymore? ›
The Problem with Zappers
Bug zappers kill tons of beneficial insects while missing most of the biting insects that pest us. Bug zappers will not control mosquitoes or other biting insects such as horseflies, dog flies, or deer flies. They simply do not work as advertised.
The most efficient and effective way to run a bug zapper is to leave it on 24/7. By doing this, you help break down the insect breeding cycle. Alternatively, run your bug zapper from dusk to dawn.
Do bug zappers attract all bugs? ›“Bug zappers are good for attracting insects that are attracted to bug zappers,” Leslie Vosshall, a neurobiology professor at the Rockefeller University, told us. This often doesn't include mosquitoes or any other biting insects.
Do bug zappers work on roaches? ›Bug Zappers. The last device that should be mentioned is the bug zapper. It is designed to kill flying insects that are attracted to the color of light produced by the device. But the bug zapper does not control cockroaches because they are not attracted to this color of light.
Do dryer sheets repel mosquitoes? ›Dryer sheets are designed to provide a pleasant scent to laundry, not to repel insects, so any insect-repellent properties may wear off quickly. In summary, while some people claim that dryer sheets can repel mosquitoes, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim.
What soap do mosquitoes hate? ›Researchers say coconut-scented soaps were among the most effective at repelling mosquitoes.
What drinks do mosquitoes hate? ›Lemongrass contains an oil called citronella, a common mosquito repellent. Swap your summer glass of lemonade for a chilled glass of lemongrass tea or carefully use lemongrass oil on your skin for a quick mosquito repellent.
Will vinegar keep mosquitoes from biting? ›Vinegar is one of the best ingredients to make a pest control spray. Vinegar is one of the best ingredients to make a pest control spray. It is effective in repelling ants, mosquitoes, fruit flies, and many others. Creating a mix is quite simple and is considered safe for humans and pets.
Does Vicks keep mosquitoes away? ›As an Insect Repellent
The camphor oil found in products like Vicks VapoRub can repel blood-sucking mosquitoes.
It has taken decades of research, but scientists are close to working out why mosquitoes bite some people, and not others. It comes down to a complex trifecta of carbon dioxide, body temperature and body odour that makes some people more inviting to mozzies than others.
What household products keep flies away? ›
- Ginger Spray. Ginger has a very powerful odor that is irritating to flies. ...
- Basil. If you cook with basil, you know that it has a strong aroma. ...
- Hot Pepper. ...
- Essential Oils. ...
- Fans.
Cinnamon – use cinnamon as an air freshner, as flies hate the smell! Lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint and lemongrass essential oils – Not only will spraying these oils around the house create a beautiful aroma, but they will also deter those pesky flies too.
Does Pine Sol keep flies away? ›Flies seem to HATE pine-sol. To make the fly repelling spray, mix the original Pine-Sol with water, at a ratio of 50/50 and put it in a spray bottle. Use to wipe counters or spray on the porch and patio table and furniture to drive the flies away.
What smells attract flies? ›Here are some of the most well-known scents that can lure flies: House flies: Unpleasant, decaying smells (rotting meat, decomposing garbage, etc.) Fruit flies: Sweet, sugary smells (ripe or rotting fruit, spilled soda or juice, alcohol, etc.)
What chemical instantly kills flies? ›Permethrin is currently the most common insecticide used for fly control and is widely available."
What does it mean when a fly is always around you? ›Houseflies LOVE the scent of food, garbage, feces, and other smelly things like your pet's food bowl. They're also attracted to your body if you have a layer of natural oils and salt or dead skin cells built up.
What do house flies hate the most? ›Flies hate the smell of essential oils like lemon grass, peppermint, lavender and eucalyptus – put a few drops in a spray bottle and use around the house daily. They also hate the smell of camphor (a traditional moth deterrent) which you can buy online, cloves and cinnamon.
How do I keep flies away permanently? ›Scents that they're particularly opposed to are the strong, pungent odors, like clove, lavender, mint, lemongrass, eucalyptus, rosemary and citronella. Apply a few drops of these oils to strips of cloth to make DIY fly paper, or spray your deck and patio to keep flies away from the periphery of your home.
How far away from house should bug zapper be? ›Position unit at least 15-20 feet away from areas where your friends and family are likely to be. Our bug zappers also work best when hung 5-7 feet from ground-level. Hanging your bug zapper on a tree or shepherd hook (which you can buy at hardware / home improvement stores) works best.
What height should a bug zapper be? ›Summary. Bug zappers are best used outdoors, and the position unit at least 5 feet above the ground.
Should I use bug zapper day or night? ›
Bug zappers can work both day and night, but they are more effective at night. Keep in mind that using bug zappers indoors and outdoors require different approaches, especially in the daytime. If you discover that your bug zappers are not as effective as before, you might want to check them for dead bug parts.
Do spiders go to bug zappers? ›Like other insects, spiders are attracted to lights, and bug zappers have bright built-in lights. Unfortunately for the spiders, the zappers also electrocute them when they make contact. If you have an indoor spider Infestation, you can install bug zappers in the areas of Infestation.
Is it bad to have a bug zapper in your room? ›Bug zappers that use UVa light to attract insects can be safely used indoors as well as outdoors. The purpose of these machines remains the same irrespective of whether they are kept inside or outside.
Do bug zappers give off radiation? ›There is no evidence to suggest that insect traps using ultraviolet black light increase your risk of developing skin cancer, as the amount of ultraviolet radiation they emit is very low. Black lights emit a type of ultraviolet radiation called UVA, which is invisible to the human eye.
Why do bug zappers need to be 20 feet away? ›Zapping Tips
You'll want to find an outside outlet, as this device needs to be plugged in. Ideally, place this device 20-40 feet away from areas where people gather. This gives room to draw bugs away from you while eliminating other light sources that might be near the zapper.
Bug zappers do indeed kill some mosquitoes. However, the only two controlled studies conducted to date by independent investigators at the University of Notre Dame showed that mosquitoes comprised merely 4.1% and 6.4% respectively of the daily catch over an entire season.
Are flies attracted to bug zappers? ›Electric Fly Zappers will attract flies from a great distance. Placing Electric Fly Zappers close to the building will attract them to the building. Be sure to use Fly zappers as far from the building as possible, but not more than 100 feet.
Can you leave a bug zapper plugged in overnight? ›Yes, it is completely safe to leave your bug zapper switched on overnight, be it indoors or outdoors.
Can bug zappers catch fire? ›Bug zappers do not present more of a fire hazard than other electrical devices. Most units have been UL-tested, but, as with any outdoor electrical appliance, care must be taken to ensure that electrical cords do not become frayed or wet.
What happens if it rains on a bug zapper? ›First, bug zappers can not accommodate water while in operation. You can't leave bug zappers in the rain, and it will spoil the system. The zapper might stop functioning as it should. The only case where you can leave your bug zapper in the rain is when you have it under shades that protect it from the rainwater.
Are bug zappers worth the money? ›
Our experts agree – as do a number of authorities in mosquito control – that bug zappers are an extremely ineffective way to get rid of your pests. To keep your space free of pests and prevent yourself from getting painful bites this summer, there are a number of other pest control solutions you can try!
What insects are killed by bug zappers? ›“When you're hearing your bug zapper go all night, it's killing moths and midges and beetles, beneficial good insects, and very few if any mosquitoes at all,” he says. Devices that rely on light or heat are indiscriminate bug killers.
What soap repels roaches? ›Cockroach Eliminating Method: Spray with Dish Soap and Water. The method: Mix dish soap and water in a spray bottle.
What soap kills roaches? ›Soapy Water: Surprisingly, dousing a cockroach in soapy water will suffocate and kill it. Filling a spray bottle with dish soap and water, shaking it, and spraying a roach from above will kill it quickly.
What automatically kills roaches? ›Bleach When you think about What Kills Cockroaches Instantly, then bleach is definitely the answer.
Do electric mosquito killers work? ›They are ineffective against mosquitoes and other biting flies, and their otherwise indiscriminate killing can disrupt pollination and generally throw the environment out of balance. Plus, the force of their electrocution can spew a mist of disease-ridden bug parts out into the air.
What are the disadvantages of electric mosquito killer? ›These are also loaded with strong fragrances that may be harmful to those allergic to aerosol or perfume products. So, the biggest disadvantage of insect repellent is that they may lead to respiratory issues, skin allergies, and breathing problems. 2.
What do professionals use for mosquitoes? ›Organophosphates. Organophosphates are chemical compounds used to control mosquitoes and plant pests. Organophosphates kill mosquitoes by preventing their nervous systems from working properly. Common organophosphates used by mosquito control professionals in the United States include malathion and naled.
Do plug in mosquito repellents work? ›They don't work. More accurately, there's no scientific evidence to support the claims that the ultrasonic technology employed in mosquito-repelling devices actually keeps mosquitoes away. In fact, the opposite is true. Many studies disprove the idea that ultrasonic technology repels mosquitoes.
How do you use vinegar to catch mosquitoes? ›Pour 1 cup of vinegar into the bottle. When it hits the baking soda, it will bubble and release carbon dioxide. This will attract mosquitoes, which will enter the funnel and get trapped in the bottom section of the bottle.
Should I leave bug zapper on all night? ›
Do I need to turn my bug zapper on and off each time I use it? The most efficient and effective way to run a bug zapper is to leave it on 24/7. By doing this, you help break down the insect breeding cycle. Alternatively, run your bug zapper from dusk to dawn.
Can you sleep with electric mosquito killer? ›Electric mosquito repellent should run for a couple of hours before going to bed. Running the repellent before going to sleep will assure you that any mosquitoes in the room will be dead by the time you go to sleep.
How long does electric mosquito repellent last? ›Raid Electric Mosquito Repellent Tablets with Eucalyptus Scent Raid Electric provides convenient mosquito protection for 3 nights (if used for hours per night) that does not need to be replaced daily, thereby minimizing contact with insecticides.
Are electric bug zappers safe? ›The air surrounding the zapper may become contaminated with campylobacter jejuni, staphylococci, serratia marcescens, enterococci, and other potentially dangerous organisms commonly carried by flies.
What plant gets rid of mosquitoes? ›Citronella Grass (Lemon Grass)
Known for its distinct smell, citronella grass (or lemon grass) is the most commonly used natural ingredient in mosquito repellants. In fact, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden recommends lemon-scented plants such as citronella grass to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Kill the mosquitoes with diluted isopropyl alcohol.
Mix an equal amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol and water into a spray bottle.
They can be an important tool in helping to prevent the spread of West Nile virus. Mosquito control professionals mix pyrethroids with water or oil and apply it as an ultra low-volume spray that kills flying adult mosquitoes.
Does Vicks Vapor Rub repel mosquitoes? ›Repel Ticks, Bugs and Mosquitos
Many attribute the oils in Vicks in helping to prevent bug bites and ticks from latching themselves onto the skin. Vicks VapoRub contains cedarleaf oil, a mild pesticide which may actually repel insects.
Acetic acid makes vinegar an excellent tool for pest control, repelling some of the most common backyard nuisances and even killing weaker insects. It's most effective against ants, spiders, and mosquitos.
Why do mosquitoes bite on the ankles? ›Your Feet Stink
The short answer as to why mosquitoes go after feet and ankles is that our feet often carry a strong odor. Yes, stinky feet attract mosquitoes.