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When purchasing fly traps, keep in mind that different traps attract different flies.
The Spruce
Fruit flies, for example, mayrequire different trapscompared to houseflies or mosquitoes.
This trap captures and kills various fly species, includinghouse flies, barn flies, and bottle flies.
It comes in a jug that can be emptied and reused, resulting in less waste.
PHOTO: Amazon
Once flies enter the bottle, they are unable to escape and drown in the liquid.
Though flies cant seem to resist the smell, you may find it unpleasant.
For that reason, this trap is best suited for outdoor use.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Eric Brockob
We recommend putting it at least 10 feet away from areas where people gather to avoid getting a whiff.
It also comes with a hanging hook for versatile placement.
Thepack of replacement baitretails for about $7, so keeping your home pest-free year-round is pretty affordable.
We found the sticky traps easy to use, but note that they need to be handled and replaced often.The Spruce
The Safer Home Plug-In utilizes glue cards to catch fruit flies, and we really appreciate its discreet design.
This gear is positioned with the sticky side facing the wall to keep trapped insects hidden from view.
The trap may be less effective during daylight hours because the light isnt visible to insects.
We appreciate the sturdy hanging ring that made hanging it on a wooden post near our outdoor space easy.PHOTO: The Spruce
We tested it in our backyard and were pleasantly surprised by how well it killed flying insects.
As time passed, the zapper effectivelykilled dozens of mosquitoesand other smaller bugs.
Since this is an electric model, it will need to be plugged into an outlet to operate.
When the Flowtron BK-40D Electronic Insect Zapper is on, it doubles as a bright outdoor light.PHOTO: The Spruce
While the original cartridges only last for 30 days, you’ve got the option to get replacements.
It does make a slight cracking sound when bugs die, but the noise isnt bothersome.
The traps have a 45-day effectiveness period and are easily disposed of after use.
Though not the most attractive option, it draws flies to its sticky surface, where they eventually die.
Unlike more advanced traps that conceal their kill, the dead flies are visible on the paper.
The ribbon also kills other flying insects, including mosquitoes, gnats, and common moths.
Each ribbon can catch up to 100 flies before it needs to be replaced.
Since four ribbons come in a pack, you get plenty of bang for your buck.
Due to its sticky texture, you should keep the trap out of reach from children and pets.
Affordably priced and sold in packs of 12, these traps are easy to use and highly effective.
They work best in the top corner of a window and adhere to the glass via an adhesive backing.
These window traps are safe to use around children and pets.
Theyre also good for buildings where rodenticides or snap traps are prohibited.
Flies are drawn to the glue and instantly become trapped in the transparent tape.
The accumulation of dead flies can be unsightly (to say the least!
If the trap leaves behind any sticky residue, you could easily remove it using rubbing alcohol.
Once flies are lured into the trap, unique trap doors prevent them from making their way back out.
They come with a handy hanging hook for this purpose.
Since its strong smell attracts loads of buzzing flies, this trap is best suited for outdoor use.
As you shop, you’ll find the following types to choose from.
Sticky trapsutilize glue cards or adhesive paper to trap and eventually kill flies.
Fly paper is a reliable old school method, but it doesnt hide the flies that are captured.
Sticky traps with glue cards tend to be more discreet, keeping trapped insects hidden from view.
Some traps are pre-filled with bait for a quick and easy setup.
Disposable traps, however, can be tossed in the trash or composted when their time is up.
Electric trapswith UV lights lure flies to their demise with either a sticky pad or liquid bait.
Smaller models are designed to plug into a standard outlet, and some even double as nightlights.
For fruit flies, we recommend theSafer Home Plug-Inbecause it is discreet and keeps trapped insects out of view.
Plus, it comes in handy as a nightlight.
Larger electric traps are usually placed on a tabletop or other flat surface and connected via a power cord.
PHOTO: The Spruce / Eric Brockob
Zappers work best at night when the light is most visible, but theyre also effective during the day.
Our top choice in this category is theFlowtron Bug Zapper, which provides coverage up to an acre.
How can you prevent getting flies in your home?
The Terro Fruit Fly Trap small and easy to set up—we placed it near fruit to be the most effective.PHOTO: The Spruce
Having screens on windows plays a significant role in keeping pesky flies at bay, says Olschewske.
Trap Placement and Location
The placement of a fly trap depends on its intended purpose.
Flies are drawn to sunny spots, which is why you often find them near windows inside your home.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Sage McHughhas been contributing to The Spruce since 2019.
She is a writer who specializes in the home and garden sector.
Our Experts:
Cluster Flies, PennState Extension.
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Amazon
