Review of the best mosquito traps: from electric to propane mosquito killers

Mosquitoes are one of the most annoying enemies of humanity. It is not surprising that you can find so many products for killing these insects in stores. Manufacturers compete in ingenuity and come up with more and more new types of mosquito traps. Today we will talk about them.

We have thoroughly studied all types of traps that are on the market today and will help you choose the most effective ones. We’ll tell you about the most famous manufacturers and their best products, and most importantly, find out what experienced users think about all this.

Among the proven manufacturers of electric traps that you can trust, I will highlight: Tefal Mosquito Protect, Flowtron, Mosquito Magnet® and electric insect traps from the manufacturer EcoSniper.

As a rule, all mosquito killers operate on the same principle. The device lures the mosquito into the trap space, from which it can no longer get out - and inside the insect dies from poison or dehydration. Mosquitoes love human smell, warmth and water. This is precisely the principle of operation of all traps. In different traps, the bait may be one or several “mosquito weaknesses”. The mosquito associates all this with food and reproduction - and it flies in the direction of the trap without looking back.

Well, then the differences begin. By type, electric traps are divided into CO2- (carbon dioxide that a person emits when breathing) and propane traps . In some models you can find heat and even light as bait.

Electrical CO 2 traps imitate human breathing. Insects sense the gas released into the atmosphere tens of meters away and perceive it as a trace of human activity.

Propane mosquito killers work on a similar principle - the most powerful, expensive and effective mosquito traps. However, they can only be used outdoors! We devoted an entire section to this type of trap at the very end of the material. The trick with propane is that when it oxidizes, this gas forms moisture and CO2. Both attract mosquitoes! And at the same time – and some other winged insects.

We will separately highlight indoor traps , since most of us still live in apartments and we need safe and non-toxic traps. Electric traps are equally effective outdoors and at home: in this case, carbon dioxide acts as both a bait and a destructive medium. They are purchased much more often than propane analogues. Largely due to a more affordable price and good performance.

With heat and light, everything is clear: light attracts and hypnotizes almost all winged insects at night, and, again, they perceive heat as a factor in reproduction and food.

What types of mosquito traps are there?

But the differences between specific types of traps do not end there. Designers and inventors came up with many tricks that made their product unique. We have selected 6 of the most common types of mosquito traps for this review. These are heat and water traps, CO2 and UV traps, homemade traps and propane traps - there are a lot of options! But what are their fundamental differences?

1. Heat traps (as the name suggests, attract insects with heat). As a rule, these are massive units that can be used outdoors or in a large house.
2. Water traps are quite effective outdoors and at home. The main trend in this direction is the combination of the capabilities of “water hunting” and CO2. All such traps are equipped with a special tray for water and make it easy to dispose of destroyed mosquitoes. They cost an order of magnitude cheaper than heat traps.
3. CO2 traps . But carbon dioxide is not used only in these traps. Manufacturers of other “anti-mosquito devices” also install it as a bonus on their designs. The simplest carbon dioxide traps are inexpensive. The most stressful thing about working with them is buying gas cylinders! But the photocatalytic method allows us to avoid these problems (we will talk about this in more detail below).
4. UV traps for the home – these traps will protect your family from unpleasant gases and odors. They destroy insects using light. And “light traps” cost quite a bit. Make sure that replacement light bulbs are available in stores in your city or immediately buy several lamps in reserve - these components will definitely come in handy.
5. Propane traps, such as the Mosquito Magnet® mosquito killer. You definitely can’t do without cylinders here. This is definitely not a cheap solution for the street. It is time-tested and enjoys constant popularity among consumers.
6. Natural and homemade traps . Homemade traps are extremely affordable, but not as effective as we would like. However, if you are a fan of ecology and budget solutions, then why not try it?

Best Electric CO2 Traps for Mosquitoes

We have already written that such traps imitate human breathing, releasing carbon dioxide. Well, then they suck the flying insects either into a net or into a receiving container. But where does the gas come from in these devices? There are two options. The most common involves supplying CO2 from a special cylinder. As a rule, these are exclusively outdoor traps. When choosing a trap with a cylinder, remember that the gas should automatically close when the power is turned off.

But the second option is more suitable for us - photocatalytic reaction .

It occurs when UV light comes into contact with certain metals. During the chemical process, a small volume of gas is released, which cannot harm a person, even when used indoors. And insects will sense this volume of CO2 perfectly. Photocatalytic traps are inexpensive, safe and easy to use.

Electric mosquito trap EcoSniper LS-217

This model is loved by users who value the price-quality ratio. Indeed, it is quite inexpensive for a “carbon dioxide” trap.

Can be used both indoors and outdoors. CO2 is released when ultraviolet light comes into contact with the titanium dioxide that coats the trap. Obviously, the level of CO2 that this pendant device emits cannot seriously harm a person. But that’s enough for mosquitoes! In addition, the device destroys wasps, hornets, bedbugs, flies and moths. The device operates on mains power and a 2-meter cord is included with the product.

The effectiveness of gas bait is enhanced by UV illumination. There is also a fan here: and the idea with the “mosquito collector” is implemented very well. When the power goes out, the trap instantly slams shut, and the insects cannot get out to take revenge on you for all the insults they have caused!

Particularly respectable is the declared “coverage area”: according to the manufacturer, it can cope with mosquitoes on an entire acre of land. In metric terms this would be about 4000 m2.

Users have something to criticize developers for. They noted in the instructions that the device can be used indoors “only in large living rooms.” Someone pointed out the lack of instructions for installing the device in the instructions.

But the level of sales of this model suggests that people still “vote” for it. Perhaps they do this because of the availability of the device compared to other CO2 traps.

Price: 2700 rub.

Which manufacturers' traps compete with EcoSniper in this category?

• Tefal Mosquito Protect MN4015F1
• Flowtron Insect Killer BK15ER

Ovitrap - sock, standing water and mesh screen

Ovitraps are dark, water-filled containers that mimic the breeding environment mosquitoes prefer—only this nursery is actually a morgue. When females lay eggs on the sock-lined rim of the container, the larvae fall through the mesh into the water.

When they are fully grown, they will become too large to fit back through the mesh and will get stuck under the screen so they won't bother you and reproduce again! You will need a plastic container, thin wire, mesh, a drill, some glue and an old long black sock.

• To make the trap, drill two holes large enough to accommodate thin wire on opposite sides of the plastic container.
• Drill two large holes below the hanging holes to serve as drains. This will prevent water from entering the mosquito trap.
• Next, glue the black sock to the bottom of the inside of the container.
• Once the glue is completely dry, pull the rest of the sock over the edge so it covers the outside of the container and glue the sock in place.
• Cut chicken wire around the top of the container and press it into the hole so that it sits directly over the overflow holes.
• Thread the wire through the small holes at the top to create a pendant.
• Pour some stagnant water (or a similar homemade mixture made by adding grass clippings or dog food to fresh water) into the trap and over the entire sock to keep it damp.

Hang the mosquito trap in a shaded area away from wind and sun, near trees and bushes. If the container does not fill naturally due to rain, add more water each time you notice that the sock is dry.

The best mosquito traps for outdoors

Propane traps are considered the most effective. Propane entering the catalytic burner releases carbon dioxide and moisture. Everything is formed naturally, literally before your eyes. All that remains is to add bait - and the mosquitoes will not fly past. It is recommended to install such traps between the house and the place where insects live permanently. The distance from the house must be at least 4 meters.

How do outdoor propane mosquito traps work?

First, let's figure out how we attract the attention of mosquitoes:

1. CO2 : Humans inhale oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide, which is the strongest natural attractant for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes smell it at a distance of 20 m and rush to their source. The result is bites, itching and a ruined weekend.
2. The warmth and smell of the human body. It is known that body thermoregulation is a constant process that leads to sweating and heat removal from the surface of the skin. Sweat is eliminated through sweat glands located throughout the body. We may not notice it, but mosquitoes sense everything and fly to the smell.

Thus, the main task of propane traps is to divert the attention of mosquitoes from humans and attract them to the trap. How is this possible? By releasing CO2 and using special baits for the trap. Mosquitoes die quickly without water, so they don’t have long to live in a trap!

It is recommended to install the device between the house and places such as a lake, pond, swamp, etc. Remember the distance to the house is at least 4 m! Provided the device is positioned correctly, it will serve as a barrier between insects and people.

Remember! The most important thing is to start the propane trap at the right time! Turn them on early in the mosquito season and you will have a better chance of interrupting the mosquito reproductive cycle and reducing the number of mosquitoes on your property.

Pros of propane traps:

• In addition to mosquitoes, they catch midges and other biting insects.
• Many models perform a number of tasks: they emit CO2, emit heat, i.e., they imitate the life processes of the human body and thus attract more mosquitoes.
• You can choose a wired or wireless model.
• The propane trap is easy to install and use.

Cons of propane traps:

• Propane is quite an expensive consumable (one cylinder will last only 3-4 weeks).
• Propane is not included and must be purchased separately.

When choosing a propane trap, consider its capacity/coverage area, price, and feeding method. However, you don’t have to bother yourself much with searching. We studied traps from different manufacturers, reviews on markets and sales statistics and selected the best for you.

Mosquito Magnet® Pioneer Mosquito Killer

Executive is the most powerful and expensive (approx. 53 thousand rubles) model in the Magnet family. The remaining models - Independence, Patriot, Defender and LIberty - are much cheaper.

Users report a significant reduction in the number of mosquitoes. For people with allergies, this trap may be the only possible way to eliminate mosquitoes. It is also important that this is a wireless device – it is powered by rechargeable batteries.

Otherwise, this is a typical high-end trap. What disadvantages do users note? First, it requires a lot of maintenance (like any other trap): replacing propane tanks, cleaning the tank, keeping the unit weatherproof, etc. Also, according to many customers, the material of the device leaves much to be desired: they expected something more than plastic.

Price: 30,000 rub.

Electric trap Flowtron Mosquito PowerTrap MT

Flowtron is also a very famous American manufacturer of traps. Users compare this model with traps from other manufacturers and have noticed that Flowtron is safe, reliable and works better than other devices. Plus, this model uses all sorts of baits to attract mosquitoes: CO2, chemicals, sticky strips, heat generation, flashing lights, suction -> more chances for a big catch!

We found only one minus. Some users are annoyed by the flashing lights of the trap.

Price: 26,500 rub.

Market Review

The market is rich in offers related to means for catching and killing mosquitoes:

1. Mosquito Trap MT 100 carbon dioxide mosquito trap. One of the most common types of traps. Effective and durable. Price 6900 rubles.
2. Lure Octenol Rapid Action Orange. A budget-friendly, but quite effective way to combat insects. Price 1300 rubles.
3. Mosquito Magnet Executive is one of the most expensive traps, but has the highest degree of safety and effectiveness. Price 84,900 rubles.
4. Skeeter Vac SV-3501 “Full Set” will get rid of mosquitoes over a large area in nature. Price 38,900 rubles.
5. Adhesive tape for Skeeter VAC. A quick and easy way to protect yourself with all the benefits of tape. The price varies from 500 to 900 rubles.
6. Mosquito trap ANS – A6. A simple, convenient and safe trap. Price 21,900 rubles.
7. Mosquito Trap MT 200 carbon dioxide mosquito trap. An effective method of mosquito control with safe technology. Price 11,900 rubles.
8. Komaram.net KRN-5000 Turbo" on a ventilation basis. There is no correlation between price and performance. Price 39,900 rubles.
9. Electrofrog Security (full set) is an effective control method suitable for street use. Price 40,000 rubles.
10. SWD-15 for home. Budget and simple, but ineffective trap. Price 1500 rubles.

Best Mosquito Traps for Home

Formally, a variety of types of “squeaker” traps are suitable for home use. Even some chemical devices can be installed in apartments and rooms. But buyers have already formed a logical connection between the concept of “house trap” and light/heat traps for mosquitoes.

These traps need to be plugged in at all times, but they won't add much to your electricity bills. They use UV light , but they won't disturb even the most capricious children's sleep. The advantages of such devices are their high environmental friendliness and compactness. And also in the ability to kill a variety of flying reptiles. The disadvantages include the relatively high noise level from the fan and constant dependence on electricity. When the power is turned off, insects can easily fly out of some models...

Trap for killing mosquitoes at home Tefal Mosquito Protect

This gadget is very environmentally friendly. To kill mosquitoes, its developers used a small UV lamp that emits white light. The product card indicates that the light bulb can be easily replaced with a new one as soon as its service life expires. The retractable “mosquito catcher” from which you will shake out dehydrated mosquitoes is easy to clean and simplifies the procedure for updating the trap. It’s nice that with it you don’t have to pour out nasty liquids or touch toxic surfaces - and all this at a price that’s reasonable for such gadgets.

Experienced device users specify that they need to be cleaned once a month. The only trouble is that at this moment some mosquitoes may still be moving in mosquito agony. However, the device has other disadvantages. People complain about the loud sound of the fan and the lack of a timer in the model. Reports on its effectiveness also vary. Some write about hundreds of caught creatures, but some were unlucky - only a few from the mosquito family were caught in the trap.

Price: 4000 rub.

You can also use the EcoSniper GF-4 compact trap for your home .

Riddex repeller and reviews about it

Riddex is one of the most advertised ultrasonic insect and rodent repellers today. It is a compact device that plugs into an outlet and allows you to repel mosquitoes from a room up to 200 m².

Sellers claim that the device is equally effective against any insects and rodents, but after testing the repeller in action, many buyers are somehow convinced of the opposite.

Review

“We ordered Riddex for 430 rubles, zero effect, cockroaches just crawl on it. Ultimately, they had to be removed with Dichlorvos and poisoned gel.”

Sergey, Moscow

Large powerful outdoor mosquito killers

Flowtron Mosquito PowerTrap MT-275

The most effective and multifunctional trap! This trap doesn't require an outlet: it runs on propane and a small AA battery.

“The SkeeterVac SV5100 has definitely helped reduce the mosquito population, but it doesn't eliminate them all. I have found this to be effective in controlling mosquito populations, especially when used in conjunction with other methods. For example, in addition to SkeeterVac 24/7, I have eliminated all sources of standing water in the yard - since the beginning of April, just in case,” = users say.

True, there are also disadvantages. This trap does not come with a scale indicating the amount of propane inside the tank, and there is no bait either. So you have to keep in mind that a propane tank lasts about 3 weeks and a bait tank lasts about a month.

Price: 32,300 rub.

Tips from users:

1. Clean your trap regularly. The more careful you are with the device, the longer the device will last (on average from 3 to 5 years).
2. Never place a SkeeterVac trap close to where you are, otherwise you will only attract insects to you. The best place for a trap is near a source of running water.
3. When you open the mosquito compartment to check how many insects have been caught, cover it with a transparent lid, otherwise the live insects will fly out.
4. Just because a trap doesn't work doesn't mean it isn't effective. Maybe it's the type of mosquito - change the bait.

Which type to choose

What fumigator do you use?

PyrotechnicElectric

Each type of fumigator is quite in demand on the market.

Basic advice can be boiled down to several points:

• for natural conditions it is better to take spirals, ultrasonic keychains or compact devices, lamps with light and current;
• for hiking, walking, and active movement, ultrasonic keychains and small battery-powered plate fumigators equipped with a belt clip are suitable (can also be attached to a backpack);
• Electric fumigators with plates and liquids work great indoors. It is better not to tempt the sensitive respiratory organs of allergy sufferers, children and animals with rough compounds. It is preferable to take special versions;
• the presence of a fan in electric fumigators will allow the active substance to be distributed more quickly throughout the room;
• liquids provide a faster effect and less frequent replacement.

Based on these tips, it’s easy to choose a fumigator to suit your own needs and wallet.

The best water traps for mosquitoes

Most users note the superiority of such devices over light traps. H20 traps are distinguished by the mandatory presence of an open tray with water. Let us remember that mosquitoes lay eggs in an aquatic environment, but drown very quickly in any liquid. So the H20 can be both a decoy and a killer at once. Although most often such traps combine light/water technologies.

Their advantage is that for such models you do not need to buy additional “components”: gas cylinders, attractants, poisons... Well, they are cheaper than their propane counterparts! True, you still need to take care of water traps: for example, add and replace water. And also - to remove victims caught during a shift. And this “mosquito soup” may scare some people with its unpleasant appearance...

Dyntrap Insect Trap, 1/2 Acre Pole Mount With Water Tray

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of such traps using the example of the best seller - Dyntrap Insect Trap, 1/2 Acre Pole Mount With Water Tray. But the leader already costs from 6 thousand rubles. In addition, this is not the smallest sample - it weighs approximately 8 kg. But Dyntrap looks quite stylish - the design of the device resembles some kind of futuristic lamp. According to the developers, one such “flashlight” can protect an area of ​​half an acre from insects. It should work in any weather and not break due to collisions with pets or strong winds. It is important that this trap works “quietly”: it does not buzz or squeak, unlike the samples from the previous section.

Dyntrap Insect trap uses 4 levels of protection at once. The trap attracts mosquitoes to the warm UV light from the fluorescent lamp and releases CO2. The water attracts females who are thinking about breeding, and the fan draws insects into the cage that is already familiar to us. Its contents need to be changed about once every 5-6 weeks.

Users also call it a nice detail that, using the original stand, the trap can be placed almost anywhere.

What exactly are the downsides? Besides the decent price and size, of course? The device also depends on electricity, but consumes very little. It is criticized for not being the most convenient “mosquito collector” and the rapid evaporation of water at hot temperatures (if it rains, the problem goes away). Nature lovers are also annoyed by the fact that the trap can catch beneficial insects: butterflies, bees and beetles.

But, as it seemed to us, many negative reviews were written by people who came for a picnic and decided to free their area from mosquitoes in half an hour. But this is still a thing for constant work. And in a week or two it can really give results.

Price: find out on the market

Tips for choosing

What you need to focus on when choosing a mosquito trap:

• Determine the area you need to protect from insects. The range of action varies greatly between devices.
• Please note that the trap can be destructive not only for mosquitoes. If there are small children and pets on the site, avoid devices that involve the use of gas, electricity and poisons.
• Consider whether you need a stationary or mobile device. The former, as a rule, are more powerful and larger and operate from the mains, while the latter are compact, but also less efficient.
• A trap located outdoors will be regularly exposed to the sun, rain, wind, and other unfavorable factors. The least durable option is plastic. Give preference to models made of metal or polycarbonate.

Best Heat Traps for Mosquitoes

Heat traps are very complex and expensive. They imitate a variety of signs of human activity. The main attraction in this case is the pulsating heat emanating from the device. An infrared “heat gun” hits a distance of 20 to 50 meters. Hence the record coverage of the area (up to 1.5-2 acres in ideal weather conditions). Many manufacturers add “will-o’-the-wisp” LED lights to the heat gun, which also attract insects, and products that imitate the odor of the human body. All this allows them to raise the price tags for heat traps up to 1000 bucks. Although, of course, you can find cheaper options.

Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap

For example, the thermal combined trap Mega-Catch™ Pro 900 PREMIER Mosquito Trap.
This is the simplest trap from the Mega-Catch series. Its price is about 22 thousand rubles, and the working area is 3/4 of an acre (3000 m2). The Premier shoots heat up to 30m and is equipped with a dynamic UV light source. It comes with both a mosquito net and a container with liquid. You can choose how you want to kill mosquitoes. The reliability of the set is indicated by the one-year warranty from the manufacturer. As a bonus to the device, you can use aromatic strips that attract most winged bloodsuckers. From the photographs it may seem that the Mega-Catch™ Pro 900 PREMIER is huge and heavy, but this is not so. Real users claim that in real life it looks much more compact. True, they also complain about some difficulties in working with the device: its multifunctionality sometimes confuses people... Commentators complain about difficulties with placing and creating baits during “liquid hunting”, as well as confusing timer settings.

However, dozens of users positively assessed the performance of the device and called it a good buy.

Price: find out on the market

Mega-Catch ULTRA Mosquito Trap (MCU-900)

Here is a more advanced and even more complex version of the mosquito killer from Mega-Catch.
It costs as much as 62 thousand rubles. and resembles a killer robot. One and a half acres of coverage, several programmable modes and an adaptive timer, 5 fan speeds and even the ability to self-diagnosis... what's not there! The developers even managed to build a CO2 cylinder into the “Ultra” (supposedly this increased the efficiency of the device by 300-400%). True, the kit comes empty - the cylinder must be filled in your city, because transporting such gas is very, very dangerous. The instructions say that the settings for thermal and light radiation are so fine that the device can be “set” on literally any type of mosquito. There is also a funny “one-button start” function - as if we were looking at a sports car or a supercomputer!

Did the guys from Mega-Catch manage to create the perfect trap for such a high price? Almost! We came across only a few negative reviews. And those in the style of “works well, but you need to buy spare parts too often.” True, there are not so many good reviews: so far not many people have decided to make such an expensive purchase!

Price: find out on the market

What it is?

The name fumigator comes from the term “fumigation”. This is the name for the process of repelling and exterminating with the help of vapors or gases. The device looks like a small box. There is a heating element inside. Its work provokes the evaporation of the active substance into the air.

Using a fumigator is useful for everyone. It is very important not to ignore protection for children and sensitive people. Insect bites don't just cause itching, they can cause severe allergic reactions including swelling, swelling, breathing difficulties and death. In addition, mosquitoes and midges are often carriers of dangerous viral diseases and parasite eggs.

Expert opinion

Borodina Galina Valerievna

In recent years, fumigators for bedbugs have begun to appear on the shelves. According to users, they are not highly effective: they do not at all affect the spread of the species in the room or furniture, and they slightly protect against bites.

In order for the fumigator to be beneficial, it is necessary to correctly select the desired form of the substance and its distributor.

XIAOMI MIJIA QIAOQINGTING Itch Relief Pen

And finally, if you have already been bitten by a mosquito, then for this case, partner XIAOMI has found a gadget - a pen that relieves unpleasant itching. The device heats up to 35-40 degrees, so you don’t have to worry about burns. The gadget is suitable for both adults and children. The procedure lasts about 10 seconds, that is, it will not take much time, but will make your life much easier. The sooner you treat the bite site, the higher the effectiveness.

Buy: aliexpress.ru

Which mosquito repellent device should you choose?

The selection includes gadgets that can be useful in a variety of situations. You obviously won’t take a solar-powered veranda lamp into your apartment, and a portable fumigator is unlikely to provide effective protection against mosquitoes throughout the entire house.

Is ultraviolet radiation hazardous to health?

When looking at the mass of gadgets using ultraviolet radiation, someone will definitely wonder whether this radiation is dangerous for the health of humans or pets? But there is no reason to worry. Low-power UV lamps from portable devices are unlikely to harm you. But no one will put a large battery in a small room and look at it all night anyway.

What gadget will help cope with itching?

Judging by the reviews from the owners, the small Xiaomi Mijia Qiaoqingting pen from our rating really works. It warms up the skin, and the desire to scratch the bite goes away. The result may depend on the characteristics of the skin and the correct application, but if you suffer from itching after insect bites, you should try an unusual gadget.

Portable USB fumigator

You can connect this small fumigator to your laptop or smartphone power adapter. The manufacturer recommends not keeping the device close to food, heat or flammable materials. Also, do not touch it with wet hands or other wet objects. Fumigator plates are available in any household chemicals department, so you don’t have to waste time on delivery (although they are also sold on AliExpress).

Buy: aliexpress.ru

Smart fumigator XIAOMI MIJIA SMART MOSQUITO KILLER 2

Why is he smart? Because it opens up to its fullest with the application in the owner’s phone. In Mi Home (if you select the China region), you can set a work schedule and view the charge percentage. Although on the body of the fumigator itself there is a power button and an indicator.

This product was released in 2022 and is different from its predecessors. It can be powered either by 2 batteries or by the cable that comes with the kit. Batteries will have to be purchased separately. Battery life is 135 nights or 1080 hours, as stated by the manufacturer. It connects to the phone via Bluetooth. This device is small enough (about the size of a palm), so it can be transported without problems.

Buy: aliexpress.ru

Mosquito light bulb

An ordinary light bulb that can provide light in a room, but also kill mosquitoes. Base type E27. If you don’t want to screw it into the chandelier, you can get a socket for it from the same seller and use it as a night light.

Service life: 10000 hours. 2 types of use: only ultraviolet, and light plus ultraviolet to kill insects. To switch to another mode, just turn off the light bulb and turn it on immediately.

Buy: aliexpress.ru