Flying insect traps are devices used to capture flying insects such as flies, moths, and wasps. They are generally constructed with a “sticky” surface, and/or a source of light and/or carbon dioxide, which attracts the insects. Traps can be used either indoors or outdoors, depending on the type of flying insect you’re trying to catch.

The basic principle behind these Flying insect traps is the same regardless of the type. When an insect lands on the surface, they become stuck and cannot escape. This is due to different types of adhesives that are used to create the sticky surface. Additionally, sources of carbon dioxide and light may be used to attract the insects, which further increases the efficacy of the trap.

Although these traps can be effective, there are a few common mistakes made when using them. In this guide, we will discuss the same.

What mistakes people make when using flying insect traps?

  1. Placing the Trap in the Wrong Location: Flying insect traps should be placed in areas of high insect activity, such as near windows and doors, areas of standing water, and in the direct light of bulbs. Traps placed in the wrong locations are ineffective and will not capture the desired insects. 
  2. Not Refilling the Trap: Traps need to be refilled or replaced regularly in order to ensure that they remain effective. Belts and sticky material used in traps will wear down over time and become less effective. Additionally, the chemicals used in adhesive traps can lose their potency after extended periods in the sun, requiring regular refilling or replacement.
  3. Not Cleaning the Trap: Traps should be regularly cleaned to ensure they remain effective. Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the sticky surfaces, making them less effective. Additionally, organic matter such as dead insects, food, and faeces can accumulate and attract other insects that may not be the desired target.
  4. Overusing the Traps: Overusing indoor flying insect traps can make them less effective. Traps should be used sparingly and only when necessary, as overusing them can lead to immunity to the traps in the local insect population.
  5. Using the wrong type of bait: Different types of insects are attracted to different types of bait. For example, moths are attracted to sweet odors, while flies are attracted to fermented odors. Using the wrong type of bait can make the trap less effective.
  6. Not using enough traps: For larger areas or for heavy infestations, it may be necessary to use more than one trap to effectively control the pest population.
  7. Using the trap in the wrong environment: Some types of traps are not suitable for use in damp or humid environments, as the bait or sticky surface may become ineffective. It is important to choose the right type of trap for the environment in which it will be used.
  8. Not using the trap in conjunction with other pest control methods: Using a flying insect trap should be part of a comprehensive pest control strategy that includes other methods, such as sealing entry points and removing potential food sources.
  9. Choosing the trap solely based on price: While you may be tempted to go with the cheapest option, this often comes at the cost of quality and effectiveness. Instead, you should look at the customer reviews to make sure the trap is actually effective at catching the particular pests you’re targeting, or that it is suitable for the size of your space. You should also examine the product specifications to ensure that the trap is the right size and can provide adequate coverage for the area you’re trying to treat.
  10. Not checking the customer reviews: Most online stores provide a section where customers can leave feedback, so be sure to take a look before making a purchase. Make sure that the reviews are from customers who have actually bought and used the trap, as this will be a better indication of how effective it actually is. It’s also a good idea to read the product description carefully – if the trap isn’t effective for the pests you’re trying to combat, then it will be a waste of money.

The Bottom Line

Using flying insect traps is a great way to keep your home or workplace free of pests, but it’s important to avoid these common mistakes. That way, you can be sure to get the best results from your flying insect trap.