The Definitive Bed Bug Trap Guide: Top Picks & How They Work

Updated 9/13/2023

Dealing with a bed bug infestation can be challenging, stressful, and, quite frankly, a goddamn nightmare. These pesky insects have a knack for hiding in the most inconspicuous places and can wreak havoc on your sleep and well-being.

The good news is, there are several bed bug traps available that can help you take control of the situation and stop these pests in their tracks.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different types of bed bug traps, DIY recipes, and tips on maximizing their effectiveness.

So, let’s dive right in and learn how to tackle your bed bug problem head-on!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links based on our recommendations & personal experiences.

Honorable Mentions In This Article

Choosing the Right Bed Bug Trap for Your Needs

When selecting a bed bug trap, several factors must be considered to ensure you choose the right one.

Some of these factors include:

• The level of infestation
• The target areas
• Budget considerations
• Long-term effectiveness

Evaluating your specific needs and choosing a trap that will effectively capture bed bugs and fit within your budget is essential.

Active Bed Bug Traps

Active bed bug traps are specialized devices designed specifically to capture bed bugs in infested areas. These traps take advantage of bed bugs’ natural behaviors and preferences.

Active bed bug traps typically use one or more of the following mechanisms:

1. Heat: Bed bugs are attracted to heat sources as they associate them with potential hosts (humans). Active bed bug traps often incorporate a heating element, such as a small heating pad or a heat-emitting device, to create a warm environment that mimics the presence of a human body.
2. CO2 (Carbon Dioxide): Bed bugs are also attracted to the carbon dioxide emitted by human breath, as it indicates the presence of a potential blood meal. Active bed bug traps may include a CO2 generator or cartridges that release a controlled amount of carbon dioxide, simulating the breath of a sleeping person.
3. Trapping mechanism: The traps are designed with an outer casing or housing that bed bugs can easily climb on. Inside the trap, a pitfall or sticky surface prevents the bed bugs from escaping once they climb in. Some traps use a combination of a rough-textured exterior and an adhesive surface to capture the bugs effectively.
4. Visual cues: Some active bed bug traps may also incorporate visual cues or colors attractive to bed bugs. This can include patterns that mimic the appearance of a human host, further enhancing the trap’s attractiveness.

The combination of heat, CO2, and a trapping mechanism in active bed bug traps aims to lure bed bugs into the device, where they become trapped and unable to escape.

These traps are typically used for monitoring purposes, allowing individuals or pest control professionals to assess the presence and activity of bed bugs in a particular area.

Passive Bed Bug Traps

Passive bed bug traps, also known as interception devices or monitor traps, are designed to passively capture bed bugs without using attractants or lures. These traps take advantage of the natural movement and behavior of bed bugs to capture them.

Here’s how passive bed bug traps typically work:

1. Physical barriers: Passive traps usually consist of a shallow tray or container with smooth walls that bed bugs have difficulty climbing. The inner surface of the trap is often coated with a slippery or talcum powder-like substance, making it challenging for the bed bugs to crawl out once they enter.
2. Placement: Passive traps are strategically placed where bed bugs are likely to travel, such as around the legs of beds or furniture. Bed bugs must climb up and down these objects to reach their hosts, and the traps intercept their movement.
3. Bed bug movement: Bed bugs tend to crawl along surfaces rather than fly or jump. When they encounter the trap, they climb up the legs or other accessible routes and inadvertently fall into the trap. Once inside, the smooth walls and slippery surfaces prevent them from escaping.
4. Monitoring and detection: Passive traps are primarily used for monitoring bed bug activity. By regularly inspecting the traps, one can check for bed bugs or monitor the effectiveness of treatments. Traps may have a clear window or a removable tray, making inspecting and identifying captured bed bugs easy.

Passive bed bug traps do not rely on attractants or bait to lure bed bugs.

Instead, they rely on the bed bugs’ natural movement patterns and inability to escape the smooth-walled, slippery containers.

These traps are useful for early detection and monitoring of bed bug infestations, allowing homeowners or pest control professionals to take appropriate measures on time.

Types of Bed Bug Traps

This section will explore the common types of traps for bedbugs available today. We’ve also included a few of our favorite products based on a recent bedbug experience!

Climb-Up Interceptors

Climb-up interceptors (also known as pitfall-style traps) are simple yet effective bed bug traps designed to catch these pests as they search for a blood meal. 

These traps are placed under the legs of your bed, making it difficult for bed bugs to climb up and reach you.

When the bugs try to climb up the bed legs, they fall into the outer ring of the interceptor, where they become trapped and unable to escape.

Pros of Bed Bug Interceptors

1. Detection: Interceptors are excellent tools for detecting the presence of bed bugs. They can help confirm the presence of an infestation early on, allowing for timely intervention.
2. Monitoring: By trapping bed bugs in the interceptor’s wells, you can monitor the activity and population of bed bugs over time. This information is valuable for assessing the effectiveness of treatment methods.
3. Prevention: Placing interceptor cups under the legs of beds and furniture creates a physical barrier that prevents bed bugs from climbing up and accessing these areas. This can help protect your sleeping space and furniture from infestation.
4. Non-toxic: Interceptors are non-toxic and do not involve the use of chemicals. They provide a safe and environmentally friendly option for managing bed bug infestations.

Cons of Bed Bug Interceptors

1. Limited Effectiveness: While interceptors can be useful for detection and monitoring, they may not completely eliminate a bed bug infestation on their own. They are just one part of a comprehensive approach to pest control.
2. Mobility of Bed Bugs: Bed bugs can potentially bypass interceptors by climbing walls, ceilings, or adjacent furniture. They are adept at finding alternative routes to reach their hosts.
3. Furniture Limitations: Not all types of furniture are suitable for interceptor placement. Furniture with legs that are too large or oddly shaped may not accommodate standard-sized interceptors, limiting their applicability.
4. Cost and Maintenance: Bed bug interceptors can be an additional expense, especially if multiple interceptors are needed for different pieces of furniture. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance are required to ensure the effectiveness of the interceptors.

Product Spotlight: EcoPest Bed Bug Interceptors

How to Install Climb-Up Interceptors

1. Remove all bedding and thoroughly vacuum your mattress, box spring, and bed frame.
2. Inspect the bed legs for cracks or crevices where bed bugs may be hiding and seal them if necessary.
3. Place the climb-up interceptors under each leg of the bed, ensuring they are centered and stable.
4. Ensure your bed is not touching any walls, furniture, or other objects that bed bugs can use as a bridge.
5. Regularly check the interceptors for trapped bed bugs and clean them out.

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Heat-Based Traps

Heat-based bed bug traps attract and capture these pests, as bed bugs are naturally drawn to warmth. 

These traps typically contain a heat source, such as a heating pad or an infrared light, which lures the bugs into the trap. 

Once inside, the bed bugs become trapped and unable to escape.

Pros of Heat-Based Traps

• Effectively Kills Bed Bugs: Heat-based bed bug traps utilize high temperatures to exterminate bed bugs. Heat kills bed bugs at all stages of their lifecycle, including eggs, nymphs, and adults.
• Non-Chemical Solution: Heat-based traps offer a non-chemical alternative for bed bug control. They do not involve the use of pesticides, making them a safer option for those concerned about chemical exposure.
• Wide Coverage: Heat-based traps can effectively treat large areas, including entire rooms or structures. Heat can penetrate cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots where bed bugs may be present, ensuring comprehensive treatment.
• Kills Hidden Bed Bugs: Heat can reach bed bugs in hard-to-reach areas that might be difficult to treat with other methods. It can penetrate mattresses, furniture, walls, and other locations where bed bugs may hide.

Cons of Heat-Based Traps

• Professional Assistance Required: Heat-based bed bug treatments typically require professional expertise and specialized equipment to ensure proper and safe application. DIY attempts to heat treat an infestation can be dangerous and ineffective.
• Costly: Heat treatments can be more expensive compared to other bed bug control methods due to the need for professional services and specialized equipment. The cost can increase depending on the size of the infested area and the extent of the infestation.
• Potential for Property Damage: The high temperatures used in heat-based treatments can potentially damage certain materials or belongings. Heat-sensitive items or objects adversely affected by extreme temperatures must be protected or removed from the treatment area.
• Not a Long-Term Deterrent: Heat-based traps can effectively eliminate existing bed bug infestations but do not provide long-term prevention. Additional preventive measures, such as regular inspections and implementing preventive strategies, are necessary to minimize the risk of future infestations.

Product Spotlight: DR-122 Bedbug Heater

Tips for using heat-based traps

• Place heat-based bed bug traps near sleeping areas and other locations where bed bugs will likely congregate.
• Ensure the heat source is properly maintained and functioning, crucial to the trap’s effectiveness.
• Regularly inspect and clean the traps, removing any trapped bed bugs and debris.

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Bed Bug Glue Traps

Glue or sticky traps are designed to attract and trap bed bugs using a sticky adhesive surface. When bed bugs come into contact with the trap, they get stuck and cannot escape. 

Pros of Glue Bed Bug Traps

• Easy to Use: Glue bed bug traps are simple and easy to set up. They typically come pre-packaged with adhesive surfaces that trap bed bugs upon contact.
• Non-Toxic: Glue traps offer a non-toxic approach to bed bug control. They do not involve using chemicals or pesticides, making them safe for use in households with children, pets, or individuals concerned about chemical exposure.
• Versatility: Glue traps can be placed in various locations, including along baseboards, furniture, or near known bed bug activity areas. They can be used as monitoring tools to identify the presence and severity of an infestation.
• Visual Confirmation: Glue traps allow for visual confirmation of captured bed bugs. This can help assess the extent of the infestation and monitor the effectiveness of treatment methods.

Cons of Glue Bed Bug Traps

• Limited Effectiveness for Widespread Infestations: Glue traps may have limited effectiveness when dealing with large-scale or heavily infested areas. They are more suitable for monitoring and capturing a small number of bed bugs rather than eradicating a widespread infestation alone.
• Non-Discriminatory Capture: Glue traps can capture various small insects, not just bed bugs. This can result in false alarms or the capture of non-target insects, leading to unnecessary concern or confusion.
• Replacement and Maintenance: Glue traps may require regular replacement or reapplication of adhesive surfaces, as they can lose their effectiveness over time or become filled with debris. Maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal trapping performance.
• Placement Challenges: Proper placement of glue traps is crucial for their effectiveness. They must be strategically positioned where bed bugs are likely to travel or where infestation signs are evident. Inadequate placement may result in limited capture rates.

Product Spotlight: Trapper Max Bed Bug Glue Trap

How to Set Up Glue Traps for Bed Bugs

1. Look for glue traps specifically designed for bed bugs. These traps should have a large surface area and a strong adhesive to ensure maximum effectiveness.
2. Determine where bed bugs are most likely present, such as near beds, furniture, or along baseboards. Common hiding spots include the seams of mattresses, box springs, and cracks in furniture.
3. Carefully position the traps where bed bugs are likely to travel or hide. Consider placing traps near bed legs, furniture legs, baseboards, or known pathways of bed bug activity. Ensure the traps are flush against the surface to prevent bed bugs from crawling underneath.
4. Regularly check the traps for any signs of bed bug activity. Look for live bed bugs, shed skins, fecal stains, or other evidence of their presence. Note the number of bed bugs caught and their location on the trap. This information can help determine the severity of the infestation and guide further control measures.

Bed Bug Traps That Mimic the Human Body

Bed bugs can be quite the pesky invaders, but did you know there are traps designed to outsmart them? Some innovative bed bug traps are engineered to imitate the allure of a sleeping human.

How?

By generating carbon dioxide and heat, these traps mimic our breathing and body warmth, drawing bed bugs into their grasp.

Other CO2-enabled bed bug traps release puffs of CO2 gas combined with specific chemical compounds, further simulating the breathing of a resting person.

It’s a clever way to lure these critters into captivity, wouldn’t you say?

Pros:

1. Effectiveness: These traps are designed to mimic the warmth and carbon dioxide produced by humans, which are primary attractants for bed bugs. This makes them highly effective in luring and trapping bed bugs.
2. Non-toxic: Unlike chemical treatments, these traps are non-toxic and pose no harm to humans or pets.
3. Early Detection: They can help in early detection of bed bug infestations, allowing for timely intervention.
4. Cost-effective: In comparison to professional extermination services, these traps can be a more affordable option for controlling bed bug populations.
5. Easy to Use: Most of these traps are simple to set up and require minimal maintenance.

Cons:

1. Not a Complete Solution: While effective in trapping bed bugs, these devices might not eliminate an entire infestation on their own. They are best used in conjunction with other treatment methods.
2. Limited Coverage: The range of attraction for these traps might be limited, so multiple traps may be needed for larger areas.
3. Maintenance: Some traps may require regular cleaning or replacement of components.
4. False Sense of Security: Relying solely on these traps might give a false impression that the infestation is under control, even when it’s not.
5. Cost Over Time: While initially more affordable than professional treatments, the cumulative cost of using and maintaining these traps over time can add up.

If you’re battling a bed bug infestation or just want to stay one step ahead, these human-mimicking traps might be the ingenious solution you’ve been searching for!

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DIY Bed Bug Trap Recipes

DIY bed bug traps offer a practical and cost-effective approach to complement professional treatments or as a standalone method for managing these pesky insects. 

This section will explore homemade bed bug trap recipes you can easily create using everyday household items!

Bottle Traps

Bottle traps are simple and practical DIY bed bug traps you can make with everyday household items. 

Pros of Bottle Traps

• Simple and DIY-Friendly: Bottle bed bug traps are easy to make using common household items. They typically involve only a disposable water bottle and a lubricated inner surface, making them accessible for DIY enthusiasts.
• Cost-Effective: Water bottles are inexpensive and readily available, making this trap a cost-effective option for bed bug control.
• Non-Toxic: Bottle traps do not involve chemicals or pesticides, providing a non-toxic alternative for those concerned about chemical exposure.
• Visual Confirmation: The bottle allows for visual confirmation of trapped bed bugs. This can help homeowners or pest control professionals assess the extent of the infestation and monitor the effectiveness of treatment methods.

Cons of Bottle Traps

• Limited Capture Area: Bottle traps may have a smaller capture area than other trap designs. They may not be as effective in capturing larger numbers of bed bugs or in areas with high bed bug activity.
• Lack of Attractants: Bottle traps do not typically include specific attractants or lures to entice bed bugs. This may result in lower trapping rates than traps that utilize attractants such as CO2 or heat.
• Fragility and Safety Concerns: Glass bottles are delicate and prone to breakage, posing safety risks if mishandled or accidentally knocked over. Care must be taken to ensure the traps are placed securely and out of reach of children or pets.
• Inconvenience and Maintenance: To remain effective, Bottle bed bug traps require regular inspection, cleaning, and maintenance. Dead bed bugs and debris must be removed, and the traps may need to be refreshed or replaced periodically.

To make a bottle bed bug trap, you will need the following materials:

• An empty disposable water bottle
• Talcum powder or petroleum jelly
• Bed bug bait (optional)

How to Make Bottle Bed Bug Traps

1. Fill the bottom of the bottle with a thin layer of talcum powder or petroleum jelly.
2. If desired, add bed bug bait to the bottle, such as a piece of bread or a cotton ball soaked in sugar water.
3. Place the lid on the bottle and poke several small holes to allow bed bugs to enter.
4. Place the trap near areas where bed bugs are likely found, such as near beds or couches.
5. Check the trap regularly, cleaning and replenishing the talcum powder or petroleum jelly as needed.

For Best Results…

• Place several traps around your home to increase their effectiveness.
• Consider adding bed bug bait to the trap to lure the bugs in.
• Use a larger bottle to capture as many bed bugs as possible.

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Sugar and Yeast Traps

Sugar and yeast traps are another effective DIY bed bug trap that can be made using common household items. 

Pros of Sugar and Yeast Traps

• Cost-Effective: Sugar and yeast bed bug traps can be made using readily available and inexpensive ingredients, making them a cost-effective option for bed bug control.
• Easy to Make: Creating sugar and yeast traps is simple and can be done using common household items. DIY recipes are accessible to anyone who wants to try a homemade trap.
• Non-Toxic: Sugar and yeast traps do not involve chemicals or pesticides, making them a non-toxic alternative for bed bug control. They provide a safer option for households with children, pets, or individuals who prefer chemical-free solutions.
• Attractive to Bed Bugs: The combination of sugar and yeast produces carbon dioxide (CO2) and a scent that attracts bed bugs. The CO2 mimics the presence of a potential blood meal, luring bed bugs toward the trap.

Cons of Sugar and Yeast Traps

• Limited Effectiveness: While sugar and yeast traps can attract and capture some bed bugs, their effectiveness may be limited compared to other trapping methods or professional treatments. They may only capture a small number of bed bugs and may not eliminate an infestation entirely.
• Messy and Unsanitary: Sugar and yeast traps can become messy due to the fermentation process and the production of CO2. They may attract other insects or pests, potentially leading to an increase in the overall pest population in the area.
• Short-Term Effects: Sugar and yeast traps may lose their effectiveness relatively quickly. The fermentation process and the release of CO2 diminish over time, requiring frequent refreshments or replacement of the traps.
• Not a Standalone Solution: Sugar and yeast traps should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control plan. They are most effective when combined with other treatment methods, such as professional pest control, thorough cleaning, and preventive measures.

To make a sugar and yeast trap, you will need the following materials:

• 2-liter plastic bottle
• Warm water
• Sugar
• Yeast

How to Make a Sugar and Yeast Trap

1. Cut off the top of the plastic bottle and discard it.
2. In a bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of warm water and 1/4 cup of sugar until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add one packet of yeast to the sugar-water mixture and stir.
4. Pour the mixture into the bottom half of the plastic bottle.
5. Invert the top half of the bottle and place it inside the bottom half, creating a funnel shape.
6. Wrap the outside of the bottle with tape to secure the two halves together.
7. Place the trap near areas where bed bugs are likely found, such as near beds or couches.
8. Check the trap regularly, cleaning and replenishing the sugar and yeast mixture as needed.

Tips for using the sugar and yeast trap method

• Keep the trap out of reach of pets and small children, as the solution can be harmful if ingested.
• Add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture to increase effectiveness.
• Experiment with different types of bait, such as fruit juice or honey, to see what works best for your situation.

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Essential Oil Traps

Essential oils can be a natural and effective way to repel bed bugs and trap them in a DIY trap.

Some of the most effective essential oils for bed bug control include:

• Lavender
• Peppermint
• Tea tree
• Eucalyptus
• Citronella

Pros of Essential Oil Traps

• Non-Toxic: Essential oil bed bug traps offer a natural and non-toxic alternative to chemical-based traps. They utilize plant-derived essential oils, generally considered safe for humans and pets.
• Pleasant Aroma: Essential oils often have pleasant fragrances, a nice departure from the unpleasant odor associated with others. This can be particularly beneficial in areas where bed bugs may cause discomfort or distress.
• Easy to Make: Essential oil bed bug traps can be created using simple ingredients and DIY recipes. This makes them accessible and cost-effective for individuals who prefer a hands-on approach.
• Potential Repellent Effect: Some essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, are believed to have repellent properties that may discourage bed bugs from approaching the traps or certain areas of the house.

Cons of Essential Oil Traps

• Short-Term Effects: The scent of essential oils may dissipate relatively quickly, requiring frequent reapplication or refreshing of the traps to maintain their efficacy. This can be labor-intensive and time-consuming.
• Variation in Effectiveness: The effectiveness of essential oil bed bug traps can vary depending on factors such as the type of essential oil used, concentration, and individual bed bug behavior. What works for one infestation may not work as effectively for another.
• Not a Standalone Solution: Essential oil bed bug traps should be part of a comprehensive approach that includes professional pest control treatments, thorough cleaning, and preventive measures. 

To make an essential oil bed bug trap, you will need the following materials:

• Spray bottle
• Water
• Essential oils of your choice

How to Make an Essential Oil Bed Bug Trap

1. Fill a spray bottle with water.
2. Add 10-15 drops of essential oil to the spray bottle.
3. Shake the bottle to mix the oil and water.
4. Spray the solution in areas where bed bugs are likely to be found.
5. To create a trap, spray the solution on a sticky surface, such as double-sided tape or a glue trap.
6. Check the trap regularly, cleaning and replenishing the solution as needed.

Tips for essential oil traps

• Always dilute essential oils before use, as they can be harmful if undiluted.
• Test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on larger surfaces.
• Keep essential oils out of reach of pets and small children, as they can be harmful if ingested.

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How to Kill Bed Bugs in Carpets

Dealing with bed bugs can be a frustrating experience, but there are several steps you can take to eliminate them from your carpet. 

Here’s how to kill bed bugs in the carpet:

1. Vacuum the entire carpeted area, paying special attention to cracks, crevices, and the edges of the carpet. Use a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, as it can capture tiny bed bug eggs and nymphs more effectively. After vacuuming, immediately remove and seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a plastic bag and dispose of it outdoors.
2. Steam clean the carpet, focusing on infested areas. Ensure that the steam temperature reaches at least 130°F (54°C), as this is needed to eliminate bed bugs.
3. Look for an insecticide labeled for indoor use, pet friendly, and suitable for carpets. Read and follow the instructions carefully, as some insecticides may require you to leave the area for a certain period or ventilate the space after treatment. Apply the insecticide as directed, targeting the carpeted areas where bed bugs are present.
4. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth lightly over the carpet, focusing on infested areas. DE is a natural substance that is considered a non-toxic treatment option for bedbugs. The fine powder damages the exoskeleton of bed bugs, causing them to dehydrate and die. Leave the DE in place for a few days, then vacuum it.
5. After taking these steps, monitor the carpet and surrounding areas for any signs of bed bug activity. It may be necessary to repeat the above treatments multiple times to eliminate the infestation entirely.

If the bed bug infestation persists or becomes overwhelming, it is advisable to seek professional pest control assistance. 

They have specialized knowledge and treatments that can effectively address the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Wrapping it Up

Bed bug traps are crucial to a comprehensive bed bug control strategy. Whether you purchase a commercial trap or make your DIY trap, these devices can help you take control of your bed bug problem and get a better night’s sleep.

By understanding the different types of bed bug traps, DIY recipes, and tips for maximizing their effectiveness, you can choose the right trap for your needs and effectively eliminate these pests from your home.

Sources

1. https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/do-it-yourself-bed-bug-control
2. https://www.orkin.com/pests/bed-bugs/bed-bug-traps
3. https://www.terminix.com/bed-bug-control/
4. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/bedbugs/faqs.html