Mosquito Traps and Bug Zappers: Do They Reduce Bites at Home?

Mosquito traps, UV bug zappers and electric lamps promise a chemical-free way to reduce mosquitoes. They are widely sold, and plenty of people swear by them. But do they actually reduce bites, and what are their limits?

This guide looks at the main types and what is known.

The short answer

Mosquito traps that mimic human cues, such as carbon dioxide, heat and odour, can capture mosquitoes and may reduce numbers locally in some situations, but results vary and evidence that they reduce bites over a large area is limited. UV bug zappers kill many insects, but mostly non-target ones such as moths and beetles, and are generally poor at attracting mosquitoes and reducing bites. Neither replaces removing breeding sites, using screens, nets and repellents. Treat traps as a supplement at most, and be realistic about what they can do.

Types

• UV light zappers and lamps: Attract insects to light and kill them with electricity or a sticky surface. Mosquitoes are not strongly attracted to UV light.
• Attractant traps (CO2, heat, lures): Mimic a person's breath and odour, drawing mosquitoes into a trap with fans or glue. Some are used by professionals and in public health.
• Sticky or ovitraps: Attract egg-laying females to a container with water or glue, to capture them or their eggs. Used in some control programmes.
• Light-and-fan household traps: Compact devices sold for homes. Performance varies.

What the evidence suggests

1. Zappers: Studies find that most insects killed are not biting insects, and mosquitoes make up a small part. They do not reliably reduce bites.
2. Attractant traps: Some designs catch many mosquitoes and may reduce local populations when used correctly, in sufficient numbers and with maintenance. Effects on bites are variable.
3. Household gadgets: Many lack independent evidence of effectiveness.

Limits

• Mosquitoes are still being produced if breeding sites remain.
• A trap may attract mosquitoes towards you.
• Coverage is limited to a small area.
• Traps need cleaning, power and refills.
• Zappers can harm beneficial insects.

If you want to use one

• Place it away from where people sit, near likely mosquito resting or entry areas.
• Follow the maker's instructions and maintain it.
• Keep it away from children and pets, and follow electrical safety.
• Do not expect it to solve the problem alone.
• Do not use zappers over food areas.

What works better

• Remove standing water weekly.
• Screens and nets.
• Fans.
• Repellents suited to the person.
• Professional treatment of breeding sites.

When to call a professional

If you are considering a trap because mosquitoes are a constant problem, ask a professional to look for breeding sites first.

Frequently asked questions

Do bug zappers kill mosquitoes?

Some, but mostly other insects.

Are traps safe?

Follow electrical and use instructions.

Can a trap clear a garden?

Unlikely, if breeding continues.

Do traps use chemicals?

Some use attractant lures. Check the product.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on mosquito control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full mosquito control guide for Bangalore.