HARRIS

 

What We Like: Whether you’re dealing with ants, fleas, cockroaches, bed bugs, or other pests, this large bag of diatomaceous earth is all you need to properly address the situation. The diatomaceous earth is made in the USA — mined in Nevada, packed in Georgia. Plus, 10 percent of profits from each purchase are donated to the local Etowah Valley Humane Society.

Safer Brand

 

What We Like: When you’ve discovered a mild infestation in your kitchen, living room, or your home office, it’s important to use the appropriate amount of diatomaceous earth for a safe and non-toxic pest control solution. With just the right amount at four pounds, you’ll have plenty to generously cover a specific area without the need to store any excess diatomaceous earth. 

Dr. Killigan’s Dispenser

 

What We Like: Some diatomaceous earth products don’t come with an applicator. While a spoon or another common kitchen utensil will work, it’s much easier to apply the diatomaceous earth powder exactly where it’s needed using a dedicated applicator. This diatomaceous earth dispenser, offered in two different sizes, eliminates the need to buy an all-in-one kit — all you’ll need is the diatomaceous earth powder for future pest control needs. Using this dispenser also reduces mess and clean-up, or the need to wear gloves. 

Earthborn Elements

 

What We Like: Suitable to keep a variety of pests at bay, this diatomaceous earth powder uses an anti-caking agent for a smooth and consistent application. If you’re a contractor or a building manager, the secure, resealable bucket design of this diatomaceous earth is ideal for travel between work sites. Make sure you have a sharp tool and bucket opener on hand to open it.

HARRIS Bottle

 

What We Like: Easy-to-use and with no tools necessary to open the bottle, this diatomaceous earth pest control product is convenient and easily fits into a backpack or toolbox. Its smaller quantity makes it a great solution for minor pest problems near window sills, vents, underneath the refrigerator, and other targeted areas. It stores well in a cabinet or underneath a sink. 

 

Buying Guide

While diatomaceous earth is a natural pest control product that’s proven safe, there are some key points to consider before you decide on the right product for your needs. 

• Quantity: The amount of diatomaceous earth necessary to control your pest infestation depends on the extent of the outbreak. Look for the estimated area coverage before making a purchase, but too much DE is better than too little. Fortunately, diatomaceous earth is already ancient, so it has an extremely good shelf life. If it stays dry and is properly stored, it will never expire.

• Dryness of the area: Make sure that the area is dry before applying your diatomaceous earth pest control product — DE is rendered mostly ineffective when wet. Prior to application, consider blocking off high-traffic areas to ensure the product stays dry and undisturbed. 

• Food grade: If you’re using diatomaceous earth for pest control, the product doesn’t necessarily need to be food-grade. While most if not all DE products are designed to be non-toxic and safe to use around pets and family, food-grade diatomaceous earth is more versatile, as it can be used as a health supplement. 

• OMRI designation: Many diatomaceous earth products have an Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) designation. This means the product has been tested by OMRI and passed their certifications for the purity of ingredients and for organic use. 

 

 

FAQs

• What makes diatomaceous earth an effective form of pest control? 

Diatomaceous earth kills insects by drying out their exoskeletons. The edges of the diatoms are sharp, which speeds up the process. Keep in mind that DE must be kept dry in order to be effective.

• What precautions should I take before using diatomaceous earth? 

We recommend wearing a dust mask when applying DE to avoid accidental inhalation. Make sure that pets or children aren’t in the area when you’re applying the powder and that surfaces are dry. Follow instructions as directed on the product packaging and store any leftover powder in a dry area such as a shed or garage. 

• Can I use “pool grade” diatomaceous earth for pest control around my house? 

It is not recommended to use pool grade DE as an indoor pest control solution. The high silica content is toxic if consumed by pets or children. Stick to using food-grade or simply non-toxic diatomaceous earth intended for pest control. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Catchmaster Flea Trap

 

What We Like: These flea, insect, and rodent traps are designed to be placed along baseboards, underneath sinks, and anywhere along the floor. We like that these traps can be used as an “investigative” measure to show any activity of fleas as well as other pests in any area in your home in which you place the traps. Make sure to face these flea traps face-up so that the glue board is exposed. 

Pamkelle Flea Trap

 

What We Like: Whether handling gross insect traps or dealing with harmful chemicals bothers you — maybe both — we recommend considering these ultrasonic pest repellers as an alternative to traditional flea traps. They work to create a high-frequency sound barrier that’s undetectable to humans and won’t bother your pets. Though they’re not designed to get rid of pests such as fleas in a single day, they will take effect after several days. 

Micnaron Flea Trap

 

What We Like: You wouldn’t think of something like a flea trap as a decorative accent to your living area, but a standard flea trap that uses a plug-in incandescent light bulb can provide exactly that. More importantly, these flea traps are good at luring fleas and other insects using the light, and killing them by forcibly sticking them to the surface of the trap. This two-pack of flea traps specifically targets fleas as well as small moths, ants, and spiders. 

Katchy Flea Trap

 

What We Like: From fleas to gnats and mosquitoes, this flea trap effortlessly draws in and sucks in these insects using an effective combination: a UV light, a fan, and a large adhesive surface. It’s simple to use and easy to dispose of dead insects without making a mess. Place this trap near your pet’s bed and turn off any ambient lighting for the fastest and best results. 

Protecker Flea Trap

 

What We Like: If you’re concerned about your pet carrying fleas and potentially spreading diseases around your home, you’ll want to make sure any existing flea traps have new replacement adhesive pads that allow plenty of room for new fleas or other insects to land on. Though these flea trap replacement pads are designed to fit many standard-sized flea traps, they can also be cut to fit nearly any shape or design. 

 

Buying Guide

Wondering what to look for in the best flea trap? You’ll find multiple pest control solutions for the same issue, and our brief buying guide breaks down these options as well as what to consider when it comes to traditional glue-based flea traps. 

 

• Traditional glue-based flea traps: Many flea traps use a traditional design that consists of a circular sticky pad with a thin, paper covering. In the center of the covering, a small, incandescent light shines to attract fleas (and other insects) into the trap, causing them to get stuck on the sticky surface of the pad. A good traditional flea trap is:

• • • Able to hold a sufficient amount of glue or poison to kill fleas without needing frequent replacement
    • Reusable and comes with multiple replaceable inserts
    • Relatively simple

• Fan-based traps: Certain flea traps target these pests as well as a variety of other insects, attracting them with a light and then sucking them into an inescapable chamber using a powerful but quiet fan. 

• Ultrasonic devices: These plug-in devices are easy to operate, emitting high-frequency sounds that disturb a wide variety of pests — particularly rodents. Though their effectiveness varies based on user experiences, ultrasonic devices are known to work against fleas. 

• Sprays: More of a general insect deterrent or killer rather than a trap, insect sprays that work against fleas may leave a residue or film on areas where it’s applied, but have been proven to be effective. An insect killer spray is probably the most effective way to get rid of fleas in your home when combined with carefully placed flea traps. 

 

 

FAQs

• Are fleas harmful to humans? 

Fleas aren’t an immediate threat to humans, as they tend to feed on the blood of cats, dogs, and other non-human mammals. However, fleas are known to cause allergic reactions and skin irritation if you pet your flea-ridden cat or dog too much. It is best to take care of any flea infestation as soon as possible. 

• How do I get the most use out of my flea trap? 

A flea trap is best placed in the heart of an infested area, in locations where animals tend to congregate, or around furniture inside of a home. These places tend to be “hot spots” for flea activity, as these pests want to be able to hide and be around their source of food. Some sample locations for a flea trap include: 

• In places around the yard where pets play
• Near a couch or bed
• By a garden or area with long grasses
• By the doors in and out of a home

• Are homemade flea traps effective? 

While it is possible to make a homemade flea trap, these pest control solutions are not as effective as purpose-built flea traps due to the quality of components found in these professional-grade products. Homemade flea traps usually involve filling a bowl with dish soap and water and placing a lit candle in the middle of the bowl. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Artibear Shepherd Hook Stands

 

What We Like: With a wide steel pipe and a five-prong base, this pole securely holds your bird feeder. Adjusting to as low as 44 inches and as high as 108 inches, this pole can be used for a variety of purposes, such as holding a lantern or plant basket. Before inserting the stand, moisten any hardened soil so that it packs in around the stake.

BEAU JARDIN Shepherd Hook

 

What We Like: Other bird feeder poles use hollow pieces of metal for adjustability, which can compromise their overall strength. However, this pole consists of a single piece of solid steel that won’t bend or snap easily. If you live somewhere that experiences frequent windy weather, this may be the option for you.

Urban Deco Pole

 

What We Like: The stylish design elements of this bird feeder pole make it a fitting addition to any existing garden decor. It’s designed to hold bird feeders, as well as lanterns, holiday decorations, planters, wind chimes, and more. Its clamping base can also secured to any fixed surface as opposed to staked into the ground.

Kettle Morraine Pole

 

What We Like: This bird feeder pole offers a promising combination of versatility and durability thanks to its multiple hangers, steel construction, and baffle set. The cone-shaped baffle increases the thickness of the middle of the pole, preventing squirrels from climbing it to reach the seed in your bird feeders. We also like the twisted screw-like end of the pole that keeps it secure 20 inches into the ground.

MIXXIDEA Hook

 

What We Like: While the rotating design of this bird feeder pole means it can’t bear as much weight as the others, the easy installation and quick adjustability make it a convenient and versatile option. It can be used for everything from hanging lights at the perfect angle to meet your lighting needs to holding bird feeders over a body of water to prevent seed buildup on the ground.

 

Buying Guide

There are many poles on the market that are designed to hang bird feeders, lights, and more. From birdwatching to insect and rodent management, here’s what to look for when you’re shopping for the best bird feeder pole:

• Weight capacity: If you have a heavy bird feeder or multiple bird feeders that you’d like to hang on a pole, make sure that the pole is rated to hold that amount of weight. While a lightweight pole may be fine for attracting hummingbirds, a heavy-duty pole is required to draw larger birds or to hang heavier items like bug zappers or plants. 

• Height: Different species of birds prefer to feed and nest at different heights — usually ranging from two to 50 feet. To prevent cats, raccoons, and other animals from tampering with your bird feeder, we recommend choosing a pole that can reach at least six to eight feet off of the ground. 

• Squirrelproofing: Unfortunately, squirrels tend to seek out seed as a food source — regardless of how high your pole rises above the ground. To prevent squirrels from climbing the pole, you can place a barrier, typically known as a baffle, in the middle. 

• Adjustability: Being able to adjust the height or angle of your pole means that it can be used for a variety of purposes in addition to holding a bird feeder. The tradeoff is that an adjustable pole isn’t usually as strong as a fixed one. 

• Style: Some bird feeder poles are simply a piece of powder-coated or stainless steel, while others incorporate etched shapes, multiple hangers, different colors, and other stylistic elements. You can choose one or the other depending on if you want your pole to be neutral or add to the outdoor decor.

 

 

Birds: An Effective Means of Proactive Pest Management

Birds have long been a gardener’s — and farmer’s — best form of natural pest control. Whether you’re maintaining a lush garden full of sensitive plants or you’ve struggled with rodent infestations in the past, hanging one or multiple bird feeders in your backyard could serve you well. 

In terms of hunting pests for food, different species of birds target different types of pests. For instance, some species roost in trees and seek out insects under or on bark, while others forage for ground-dwelling insects. Additional birds, such as swallows, tend to eat flying insects mid-flight. 

Small mammals, such as mice, volves, shrews, rats, and gophers, that plague the exterior of your home are popular prey for medium and large raptors. Red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, Cooper’s hawks, merlins, and barn owls also hunt small mammals by scanning the area from above. If you’re able to attract larger birds of prey, they can even scare off squirrels, chipmunks, and racoons.

 

 

FAQs

• What should I put underneath my bird feeder pole?

To protect the grass or anything else that lies underneath your feeder, you can lay a tarp down to catch any fallen seed or bird droppings. For a more attractive option, some homeowners lay a small concrete slab.

• Do I need to use a feeder pole that extends at least six feet high? 

A bird feeder pole that extends at least this high is recommended, but not necessary. If you don’t have any pets or you live somewhere without squirrels or other curious wildlife, a feeder pole that sits closer to the ground will suffice.

• How do I extend the life of my bird feeder pole? 

Though most feeder poles are made with rust-resistant metal, you can clean them every few weeks with an all-purpose cleaner and paper towels. Another option is to spray them with a hose.

• Can bird feeder poles support the weight of larger birds of prey?

Many birds of prey weigh less than two or three pounds. As long as the pole is firmly set in the ground and the feeder is securely held on the pole, weight limitations shouldn’t be an issue.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Foxany Fly Swatters

 

What We Like: Those with tall ceilings and limited storage space will appreciate how useful these fly swatters are. They retract to less than one foot in length, so the swatters will take up minimum room and fit in nearly any standard-sized drawer. However, when flies are buzzing and you need a little extra length to reach them, the swatters extend to over two feet in length.

Smart Swatter Fly Swatters

 

What We Like: Maybe you’ve used a traditional fly swatter in the past, only to find yourself disgusted at the mess you’ve created after striking down a fly. If you’d like to avoid insect splatter, consider these two fly swatters that use tiny spikes and grooves to stab or capture bugs before they have a chance to make a mess on the wall. To empty, simply bang the handle of the swatter on the edge of a trash can.

Mafiti Fly Swatter

 

What We Like: With a sturdy construction that offers years of continued use, we like this electric fly swatter as a convenient and effortless alternative to manual swatters. The high-voltage capacity quickly neutralizes smaller insects, and the green LED light lets you know that it’s powered up and ready to use. Since it’s as portable as any other fly swatter, we recommend bringing it with you for camping, barbecues, picnics, or any other outdoor event.

Dirza Fly Swatters

 

What We Like: Hunting around your house to kill multiple flies — or even that one pesky fly that won’t seem to go away — may sound like an obsessive ordeal, but DIY pest control can be fun, too. This multi-pack of colorful, hand-shaped fly swatters is a quirky way to eliminate vexing house flies and other invasive flying insects with a single slap. To provide your coworkers or students with a laugh, we recommend using these in the classroom or office. 

Hope Woodworking Fly Swatter

 

What We Like: If you’re concerned about a traditional plastic fly swatter suddenly cracking or snapping, this leather fly swatter is a product you should consider. The swatter itself will last many years when cared for properly, but the leather material is also easier on your walls, ceiling, furniture, tabletops, and anywhere else that an unsuspecting fly decides to land. This swatter is designed to quickly neutralize cockroaches, flies, bees, mosquitoes, spiders, cicadas, wasps, and more. 

Buying Guide

Fly swatters have been around for a long time. Though they’re fairly straightforward instruments used to eliminate house flies and other bothersome flying insects, there are a handful of aspects to consider to find the best fly swatter for your home or business. Keep these things in mind when you’re shopping around. 

• Size and shape: When you’re going around swatting flies, chances are you’re only likely to nab them one at a time. This necessitates only a relatively small fly swatter; however, larger fly swatters increase your likelihood of making contact with and killing the fly. This also goes for larger insects such as moths, mosquitoes, wasps, and dragonflies. In terms of the shape of the swatter, most have a tapering square or rectangular design, resembling that of a spatula. 

• Holes: Ever noticed how fly swatters have tiny holes in the swatter itself? They’re small enough to not let an insect pass through, but numerous enough to allow greater airflow and aerodynamics for the user. This means you have greater swatting power by choosing one with tiny holes in it versus a solid swatter without vented holes. 

• Flexibility: A fly swatter should be rigid enough to pick up and carry around, but flexible enough to bend slightly as the user swats a fly. This prevents the handle or shaft from accidentally snapping when the swatter inevitably makes contact with an object. Additionally, the flexibility of a fly swatter prevents accidental damage to wherever the fly was resting at the time. 

• Material and durability: Most standard fly swatters are made using plastic. After heavy use, plastic fly swatters may snap or break, especially if too much force is applied. Other fly swatters are made with a metal rod and leather swatter. When cleaned periodically and cared for properly, metal and leather fly swatters should last a lifetime. Rubber or polymer-based fly swatters are also fairly durable and easy to clean. 

• Additional features: As simple as swatting flies may sound, companies provide home and business owners with a multitude of extra features when taking pest control into their own hands.

• Telescopic handle: Space-saving for storage and even better for people with tall ceilings, telescoping fly swatters allow the user to extend the shaft of the swatter, increasing wingspan. Telescoping fly swatters should be able to lock into multiple positions so that the shaft of the swatter doesn’t lower or raise as you go to smack a bug. 

• Self-catching system: If the idea of cleaning up dead bugs doesn’t sound appealing to you, fly swatters that have a clever, built-in self-catching system may be of interest. Instead of swatting a fly against the wall, ceiling, or piece of furniture and having to wipe away the splattered bug or clean it off the floor, the catcher causes the bug to get stuck, which can then be emptied and disposed of directly into a trash can. 

• Electric grid: Fly swatters that use a charged electric grid, also known as electric fly swatters, are convenient because all it takes is a brief second of contact with the grid to kill small insects. Regular fly swatters, conversely, require a good amount of force to effectively hinder insects. 

 

How To Keep House Flies and Other Flying Insects at Bay

Wondering how all of these flies entered your home in the first place? Though a fly swatter is a useful tool to handle the situation, it’s worth taking a few proactive steps to help prevent these annoying pests. As pest control experts, here’s what we recommend for homeowners and business owners to enjoy a no-fly zone. 

• Keep your doors, including screen doors, fully closed as often as possible. This one sounds like a no-brainer, but it’s a flying insect’s primary way in and out of your residence. 
• Place house fly or flying insect traps outdoors. Use a liquid-based bait or adhesive trap, and place them in your backyard and front door area. This cuts down on the number of would-be intruders. 
• Use a fan as an “air curtain” to physically prevent smaller flying insects from squeezing through a closed screen door. 
• Address any areas outside of your home that could attract flies. Compost, certain plants and flowers, trash, recycling, and yard working supplies may be major insect attractants. By treating or eliminating these, you’re reducing the overall volume of house flies and flying insects that force their way into your house. 
• Eliminate areas of excessive moisture and standing water. 
• Turn off any lights when they’re not being used. 
• Keep the drains and areas around sinks and tubs clean. This helps prevent fruit flies. 
• If old and worn, replace any door sweeps or seals. 

 

FAQs

• Are electric fly swatters effective? 

Electric fly swatters are very effective at killing smaller bugs. Larger insects, such as cockroaches, may not receive an electrical jolt from the grid. This is due to the built-in safety measures within the wire mesh. Electric fly swatters are convenient because you don’t have to use brute force to smack a fly; simply touch them with the racket, and smaller insects will drop dead immediately. Make sure to charge your electric fly swatter or keep extra batteries on hand. 

• Will a spatula work as a fly swatter? 

A spatula will certainly function as a makeshift fly swatter, but we don’t recommend it. Not only are there sanitary concerns using a cooking tool as a fly swatter, but hard plastic and metal spatulas are likely to damage your walls, ceiling, or furniture. A dedicated fly swatter will be more gentle on your home and more effective at killing these pests. 

• Are fly swatters dishwasher-safe? 

Certain fly swatters are made from strong plastic and rubber materials that allow them to be safe for most top-rack dishwashers. However, to avoid potential cross-contamination, we recommend hand-washing your swatter if you need to clean it.

• Who needs a fly swatter? 

Realistically, everyone should own at least one swatter at home or the workplace because you’re bound to encounter buzzing insects swarming around you, even in the comfort and safety of indoors. Because fly swatters are designed to hit bugs, they should be used carefully when other people, pets, or valuables are present. Small children should not handle fly swatters. 

• Is it safe for my cat or dog to eat dead house flies? 

Though pets can be useful “vacuum cleaners” to pick up crumbs of food, we recommend keeping them away from any dead flies or insects. As you use your fly swatter, keep a broom and dustpan or vacuum cleaner nearby, and make sure to get rid of your kill before your pet gets to it. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

ASPECTEK Insect Zapper

 

What We Like: Using a bright-glowing UV light to attract a variety of flying insects, including common types of flies, this rectangular bug zapper instantly kills anything that flies too close. It covers large areas and works outdoors as well as indoors, so long as it’s placed over a covering to prevent water damage. It also comes with a removable tray at the bottom to collect the dead insects. 

Katchy Insect Trap 

 

What We Like: Although this unique bug trap isn’t a complete insect killer solution, it will significantly reduce the overall volume of insects in your home. If you’re an avid cook with lots of fresh produce out on your kitchen counter, we recommend placing this plug-in trap near your produce bin to subtly suck in any roaming fruit flies, mosquitoes, gnats, moths, or other small bugs. The trap is styled to blend in nicely with your indoor decorations, so it won’t stick out in your living space. 

BUG-A-SALT Insect Killer

 

What We Like: For some, hunting flies around the home with a fly swatter can be an entertaining game or, at the very least, a nice break from work. This rifle-shaped fly killer takes the novelty of swatting flies to a different level, turning your fly-killing endeavors into a true hunt. This product can use any type of standard, granulated salt, and it includes a safety mechanism to prevent accidental operation. 

Fruit Fly BarPro Fly Traps

 

What We Like: A singular zapper, swatter, or trap may be useful in killing stray flies, but it doesn’t tackle widespread issues. With this pack of adhesive strips, you can easily hang them wherever you’ve spotted flies to cover thousands of square feet with a single purchase. The manufacturer’s time-activated formula slowly releases an odorless and harmless vapor to attract a variety of insects over the course of four months.

RESCUE! Fly Traps

 

What We Like: You probably don’t want a bag of dead flies openly hanging in your living room or kitchen, so that’s why we recommend these no-frills, disposable fly traps for outdoor use. Horse owners will appreciate how easy these fly traps are to hang around their stable and detract flies from their animals. So long as you’re able to hang these fly bags away from any entrances, they’ll work as designed to minimize the number of flying insects that are able to make it into your home. 

 

Buying Guide

They say there’s more than one way to skin a cat, and this expression certainly applies to killing flies in your home. From traditional fly swatters to powerful electric bug zappers, you’ll find a wide variety of products to trap and kill flying insects in your home. To help you navigate these options and make an informed decision, consider the following information.

• Type: Below is a list of the most common types of fly killers.

• Zappers: With outdoor- and indoor-friendly options to quickly and effectively kill flying insects, bug zappers use a glowing UV light to attract bugs and an electrical grid to electrocute them on contact. The risk of electric shock to humans and pets is always possible with a bug zapper, however. 

• Swatters: Fly swatters are probably the oldest type of fly killer. This time-honored solution puts the control in your hands, allowing you to manually swat a fly or other insect in your home. Though inexpensive and relatively safe, fly swatters require manual effort and accuracy, so your results will vary. Using an electric swatter as opposed to a manual one will slightly improve your effectiveness.

• Traps: Insect traps come in many shapes and sizes, containing a multitude of baits with chemicals to attract a range of bugs. For standard houseflies, traps with a strong adhesive that get them stuck are usually effective. Other traps may use bright colors or strong smells to attract flies. 

• Sprays/repellents: Products that use natural ingredients or strong insecticides may be used to keep a variety of insects at bay. 

• Area covered: The average housefly doesn’t live very long, but it can cover a lot of area moving from room to room. Depending on the size of your home, you may want to set up multiple traps. Roaming your house with a single fly swatter may sound entertaining for some people, but for others, it’s a waste of time. If it’s a trap, zapper, or spray, look for the total area that it covers, which is usually measured in square feet.

• Safety concerns: Though flies should be the only ones truly concerned about their safety, think about if you want toxic chemicals or electrocuting devices in or around your home. If you have pets or young children, consider comparatively safer glue traps or manual swatters.

• Versatility: Fly killers are capable of attracting and killing many types of pests. If you’ve noticed other types of flying insects around your home, your killer should be able to target them as well.

 

How To Identify Flies

There are many types of flies that are common in United States households. These types include: 

• Houseflies
• Gnats
• Blowflies
• Fruit flies
• Phorid flies
• Drain flies

 

The most common flies in United States homes are the housefly and the fruit fly. They’re most attracted to the food in your kitchen, such as overripe produce. Gnats are also common, but they’re more likely to be found outside.

 

Here are four aspects to consider if you’re trying to identify the type of fly in your home: 

• Color: Flies come in various colors, but the most common type — the housefly — has a gray body with black stripes and large, red eyes. Blowflies have a metallic green or blue color, and fruit flies are usually tan with large, red eyes. 

• Shape: Almost all flies are similarly shaped. They typically have oval bodies with attached eyes and wings. 

• Size: Houseflies are generally the largest variety of flies that you will see in your home. Fruit flies are about half the size at an eighth of an inch long. 
• Habitat: Flies are commonly found close to entry and exit points, such as windowsills and doorjambs. You may also find them on the floor, around drains, and in pantries or cupboards.

 

 

FAQs

• Are fly killers safe to use around pets and children? 

It depends on the type of fly killer that you’re using. Electric fly swatters and bug zappers should be used with caution because they have a risk of electric shock. If you’re using a spray, opt for one with essential oils as opposed to pesticides. Fly traps that use water, glue, light, or air to attract or trap bugs are generally safe. 

• What are the most common signs of a fly infestation? 

Besides the obvious — hearing the annoying buzzing sound of a fly roaming around your home — you should look out for two main occurrences:

• Dark spot clusters: Flies leave small amounts of residue where they land. This will be obvious in light-colored areas of your home, such as on your kitchen countertop or table.

• Maggots: When flies are in their larval stage, they look like small, white worms. If you see maggots, that’s a sure sign that flies are reproducing in your home.

• Are fly repellents effective? 

If they’re used as directed, fly repellents tend to be fairly effective. However, it’s worth noting that these products don’t necessarily kill flies; they just keep them at bay.

• What are the most common causes of a fly infestation? 

Houseflies are an inevitable part of life, but like other types of insects, there are some circumstances that attract them to your home.

• Food left in the open: If you regularly leave food scraps or produce out in the open, this could be an attractant for flies. Put food away in a pantry or cupboard, and throw away scraps in a covered trash can.

• Dirty drains or countertops: If you don’t regularly clean your kitchen, you’re more likely to get a fly infestation. Clean your countertops with disinfectant every few days, and run bleach down your drains every few weeks. 

• Besides using a fly killer, what else can I do to prevent flies in my home?

Here is a detailed list of ways to prevent flies from finding your home attractive:

• Use essential oils. 
• Seal your windows.
• Keep your doors closed. 
• Cover your garbage bins.
• Turn down your heat. 
• Keep your garbage and recycling cans clean. 
• Light citronella candles. 
• Clean any spills promptly. 
• Throw out overripe produce as soon as it goes bad. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

G & F Products Waterproof Gloves

 

What We Like: For when grip is a priority, these waterproof work gloves offer a fit that’s loose enough to not cut off circulation but snug enough to make handling objects easy. Their nylon material extends past your wrist, giving you protection for some of your forearm.

 

Carhartt Insulated Work Gloves

 

What We Like: These waterproof gloves have several useful features, including two fasteners to keep them snug around your wrist, a nose wipe to keep your face clean, and a hook to connect the two together for storage. Plus, because these gloves are made with primarily synthetic materials, they’re easy to clean.

OZERO Work Gloves

 

What We Like: Insulated, durable, comfortable, and stylish, these waterproof work gloves check the boxes that most people look for in a pair of gloves. The elastic wrist also makes it easy to slip these gloves on and off, and the double stitching ensures that these gloves last a long time.

Vgo Work Gloves

 

What We Like: Demanding jobs can destroy quality gear quickly. This pack comes with a backup pair in the event that the first one no longer does its job. The gloves are reflective, windproof, and touchscreen-compatible, providing all-around versatility regardless of the job at hand.

Carhartt Waterproof Breathable Work Gloves

 

What We Like: Working outdoors on a farm or ranch is tough, grueling work. It calls for equally tough work gloves, and this pair meets the bill. They’re wind-resistant and breathable, and their suede leather construction makes them form-fitting but flexible.

 

Buying Guide

Touching pests with your bare hands can be dangerous, as they may carry harmful diseases. Waterproof work gloves keep your hands protected when you have to deal with unwanted critters. However, not all of the options are created equal. From grip to insulation, here are some factors to consider when you’re searching for the right pair for your needs. 

• Fit: Work gloves come in different sizes to fit the hands of different individuals. The right fit isn’t just more comfortable, it’s also safer. Tight gloves may cut off circulation to your hands, and loose-fitting gloves may slip off. Most manufacturers provide hand measurements for each size to help you decide which one to select.

• Thickness: Waterproof work gloves vary in their thickness. Thin, skin-tight gloves offer greater dexterity, but they’re less insulated and more likely to let water seep in. Conversely, thicker work gloves keep your hands warmer and drier at the expense of flexibility. 

• Grip: Think about what you touch and interact with. Do you need extra grip for handling pests or pesticides? If so, consider synthetic gloves with rubber palms as opposed to traditional leather work gloves. 

• Warmth and insulation: Some waterproof work gloves are intentionally designed for warm, humid environments, providing little warmth but keeping the wearer’s hands dry. For extreme winter temperatures, other waterproof gloves feature multiple layers of insulation for wind protection and warmth. 

• Material: Leather is an expensive but effective waterproof material. Some waterproof work gloves use a combination of suede and faux leather to mimic the natural waterproofing properties of leather. Other popular synthetic materials include rubber and polyester. While affordable and easy to clean, these materials don’t protect your hands as well. 

• Waterproofing: The level of water protection varies from glove to glove. Many work gloves that are advertised as waterproof are actually water-resistant rather than waterproof. Genuine leather work gloves are the best option for true waterproofing, but other work gloves made from synthetic materials may have a multilayer design that provides sufficient water protection. 

 

 

How To Properly Dispose of a Dead Rodent 

Once a rat or mouse has fallen into your trap, disposing of it is the next step. However, there are some important factors to keep in mind to ensure you’re staying safe while you’re handling it:

• Wear work gloves: Some traps allow you to dispose of a dead rodent without touching it. However, if you’re using a more traditional trap or poison, it’ll be up to you to get rid of the dead animal. Use thick work gloves to pick up the rodent and put it in a bag before bringing it out to the trash. 

• Wear a respirator mask: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends that you wear a respirator or dust filter mask when you’re disposing of a dead rodent to protect yourself from debris or viruses that may be in the area. At the very least, cover your nose and mouth with your shirt or another item. 

• Disinfect the area: Once a rat or mouse is disposed of, use a disinfectant or a bleach and water solution to clean the area. 

• Remove exposed insulation: If a rat or mouse has gotten into your insulation and contaminated it with droppings or urine, it also needs to be disposed of. Keep your work gloves on while you bag up the exposed insulation and put it in an outdoor trash container. 

• Wash your hands and face: After the cleanup process is complete, remove your gloves and protective mask, and wash your hands and face with soap and water. A shower is also probably not a bad idea. 

 

 

FAQs

• Can I apply an additional waterproofing agent to my waterproof work gloves?                 

  Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before applying a separate waterproofing layer. However, in most cases, this is fine. 

• How do I dry the inside of my waterproof work gloves? 

Your work gloves should air out on their own overnight, but to dry them faster, you can place them on an electric boot dryer with a glove attachment. 

• Can I clean my waterproof work gloves in a washing machine? 

Many waterproof work gloves can be cleaned in a washing machine on a gentle cycle. Some can even be machine-dried. However, pay close attention to your gloves’ cleaning instructions to avoid prematurely compromising their protective waterproof layering.

• Can I wear a separate insert underneath my waterproof work gloves for additional protection? 

If there’s enough room between your hands and your gloves, feel free to wear an insert. However, doing so may reduce dexterity. 

• What pests are unsafe to touch without work gloves?

It’s not advisable to touch any bug or critter without work gloves, as it could be carrying diseases. Work gloves also help protect you against the pesticides you used to eliminate it.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Wondercide Pest Control Spray Concentrate

 

What We Like: If mosquitoes are tormenting your yard, but you don’t want to use a toxic, chemical-laden solution, consider this yard spray. When it’s used as directed, this spray is as powerful as the insecticide permethrin without the toxicity. It sprays up to 10,000 square feet, which is more than enough to thoroughly treat your yard one or multiple times. There’s also no wait time for its knockdown effect to begin — it starts working its magic within minutes after it’s applied. 

Summit Mosquito Dunks

 

What We Like: It’s well-known that standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes as well as other bothersome insects. With this pack, all you have to do is gently toss a dunk on the water’s surface to treat up to 100 square feet, regardless of water depth. The insecticides used in the dunks are only toxic to mosquitoes, disrupting their life cycle. Consider throwing a dunk in rain barrels, bird baths, tree holes, gutters, and other areas where water collects around your yard. 

Flowtron Electronic Insect Killer

 

What We Like: Combining warm, ambient lighting with the killing power of a high-voltage electric grid, this outdoor zapper is worth adding to your arsenal of mosquito killers. The UV light attracts mosquitoes and other flying bugs, and the electric grid kills them on contact without the use of chemicals. Arriving with a top-mounted hanging hook, this zapper is easy to situate in your backyard to provide around-the-clock mosquito control using just pennies a day in electricity costs.

Summit Mosquito Bits

 

What We Like: Your backyard oasis full of growing plants and water features shouldn’t be overrun by mosquitoes. This hefty bag of mosquito bits uses a similar formula as mosquito dunks. However, they can be spread over soil, dirt, or anywhere else in your backyard instead of just placed on water. The bits can be used around people, pets, plants, fish, and livestock to target the larvae of mosquitoes that transmit Zika and West Nile virus. 

ZAP IT! Bug Zapper Racket

 

What We Like: Traditional fly swatters are useful in certain situations, but when it comes to pesky, fast-maneuvering insects like mosquitoes, an electric grid makes it much easier to instantly kill them. The 4,000-volt power grid on each zapper racket knocks down flying insects with a single swing. The battery is also designed to last up to 10,000 individual zaps on a single charge.

 

Buying Guide

Most, if not all, of us can agree that mosquitoes are unwanted, bothersome pests that should be eliminated at all costs. Our buying guide below informs you of your mosquito-killing options to help you make a purchasing decision.

• Type: Mosquito killers and repellents come in several forms, with the most common being:

• Zapper: Electric zappers have a few advantages over other forms of mosquito killers — namely, using no toxic chemicals, requiring little oversight, and being effective against any flying insect. You’ll find freestanding, hanging, and racket bug zappers. 

• Dunk: Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water, so if you have a pond, bird bath, fountain, or other water feature in your backyard, consider adding a few mosquito dunks to it. Mosquito dunks are small, donut-shaped rings that float on the surface of water, releasing a bacteria that’s only toxic to mosquito larvae to prevent them from reproducing. 

• Spray: Yard sprays are a common and effective mosquito killer. They’re available with a variety of active ingredients that form a barrier around your home to minimize the number of mosquitoes that are able to get through. A spray bottle, hose attachment, or fogger machine may be necessary to apply this spray. 

• Ingredients: As with most pest control products, there are chemical-based options as well as more natural, non-toxic options available. Insecticides are commonly found in dunks and sprays, though some sprays use essential oils. Effectiveness varies among active ingredients, so mixing and matching different products will yield the best results. 

• Duration: How long a mosquito killer remains effective depends on what type it is. Electric zappers continue to work for months or even years as long as they have power. Mosquito dunks, sprays, and other products that require application or placement usually last between half a month and a month. 

• Effective range: The effective range is in how large of an area the killer works. This can be measured in acres, square feet, or meters. If you want to ward off mosquitoes outdoors, look for a product with a large estimated range. Conversely, a small zapper or spray bottle doesn’t need as large of a range if you’re using it indoors.

 

Do Mosquitoes Bite Dogs? 

Not unlike humans, mosquitoes target dogs as a source of blood. In fact, dogs can get quite a few mosquito bites despite their comparatively thicker hair.

Although your pup can’t verbalize that they’ve been bitten, there are a few signs to look out for:

• Repeated scratching when they don’t have fleas
• Continuously rubbing their nose and ears against the ground or carpet
• Visible red welts, akin to mosquito bites on humans

In most cases, mosquito bites don’t warrant a trip to the vet. However, it’s possible for your dog to contract mosquito-borne illnesses just like humans. If they exhibit any of these behaviors, take them to the vet immediately: 

• Constant coughing
• Trouble breathing
• Lack of energy
• Refusal to play or run
• No appetite or sudden, unexplained weight loss

 

Treating Canine Mosquito Bites

Though using a mosquito killer serves as an ideal first layer of defense against mosquito bites, there are also products that you can safely apply directly to your dog. It’s important to note that you shouldn’t use human insect repellents or killers on dogs, as chemicals that are harmless to humans can be toxic to them. 

Essential oils, such as tea tree oil, lavender, and lemon eucalyptus, are safe and effective in preventing and managing canine mosquito bites. You’ll also come across anti-bacterial creams and ointments formulated specifically for dogs. 

 

 

 

FAQs

• Are bug zappers an effective way to kill mosquitoes? 

Yes. Although bug zappers won’t provide you with a direct shield against mosquito bites, a carefully placed one can limit the number of these blood-sucking pests in the area.

• What’s the difference between a mosquito repellent and a mosquito killer? 

Mosquito repellents are designed to keep mosquitoes at bay, while mosquito killers work to directly target and kill them. Repellents typically use non-toxic ingredients and come in the form of skin sprays, bracelets or other wearable items, and candles. 

• What time of year are mosquitoes most active? 

Mosquitoes are most active during the warmer months of the year — typically April through October in the Northern Hemisphere. However, due to their relatively fast life cycle, mosquitoes can hatch and become a nuisance in just days if there’s a warm spell during the winter. Unless there’s visible frost or snow on the ground, mosquitoes are always a possibility. 

• Are mosquito yard sprays safe to use around pets and children?

Generally, yes. Modern pesticides have come a long way in terms of their effectiveness and safety. All mosquito killers, including yard sprays, must conform to countless regulations from the Environmental Protection Agency before they’re available to consumers. Despite this, we still recommend storing any yard sprays or other mosquito killer products in a closed-off area away from children and pets. 

• What’s a mosquito coil? 

A mosquito coil is a special type of mosquito-repelling solution made from dried pyrethrum powder. The coil, taking a spiral shape, burns slowly when it’s lit, releasing smoke that creates a protective barrier against mosquitoes and other flying insects. Mosquito coils are designed for outdoor use only and are commonly used in places with a tropical or subtropical climate.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Katchy Insect Trap

 

What We Like: Elegant in its design, this trap takes up minimal counter or table space and looks attractive while doing it. Though it’s not specifically built to target mosquitoes, its light attractant and suctioning fan work on them. The glue board placed along the bottom of the unit is also easy to remove and dispose of after a few days’ use. 

Garsum Sticky Traps 

 

What We Like: It’s hard to know what pests are going to target the vegetables, flowers, and other plants in your garden. That’s why this 12-pack of sticky insect traps is a handy solution, as the shape, color, and adhesive is designed to attract houseflies, gnats, aphids, fruit flies, and more — including mosquitoes. To set up the trap, all you need to do is remove the protective cover paper and place it in the soil where it’s most likely to catch insects. The life of each trap depends on how many insects are around it, but some customers reported up to three weeks of usage. 

DynaTrap Insect Trap

 

What We Like: Resembling nothing more than a simple nightlight, this subtle insect trap is a departure from a large, noisy electric zapper. Embedded within the fixture is a small glue card that captures flying insects and lasts 30–60 days before it needs to be replaced. We think this trap acts as a nice supplement to other mosquito traps. 

Klahaite Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: Treating your outdoor living space with strong insecticides can be cumbersome and unpleasant. This medium-sized zapper offers an alternative. The soft-glowing UV light reels in mosquitoes and other types of insects, and the electrical grid sends them falling into the collection tray. 

 

DynaTrap Mosquito and Insect Trap

 

What We Like: This trap is capable of catching moths, hornets, stink bugs, flies, wasps, and other flying insects in addition to mosquitoes. We like the pole mount stand that turns this mosquito trap from an eyesore into a functional backyard decoration. The controls are also easy to use — just twist the unit to turn it on or off. 

 

Buying Guide

A trap lures in mosquitoes as well as other flying insects to kill them and dwindle their overall population. However, because mosquito traps vary in their design, we’ve identified some important factors to help guide your purchase. Here’s what to consider:

• Type: Here are the main types of mosquito traps available on Amazon: 

• Carbon dioxide: Carbon dioxide mosquito traps produce a similar emission to human exhalation, which attracts and kills mosquitoes. Propane-fueled traps convert the gas for a consistent output of carbon dioxide. These traps require more maintenance than other mosquito traps and present a fire hazard, but they tend to be effective. 

• Heat/light: These mosquito traps use either heat or light as an attractant. When a mosquito flies near them, it’s either sucked in with a fan or zapped with an electrical grid. Though less powerful than carbon dioxide traps, they’re more versatile because they can be used indoors or outdoors. 

• Adhesive: Some heat or light traps have a sticky board that captures mosquitoes once they get sucked in. However, simpler adhesive traps can be placed just about anywhere to capture any flying insects that venture too close. 

• Range: Carbon dioxide traps have the largest range of effectiveness, so they’re best for large properties and infestations. Heat and light traps are a step down, and adhesive traps don’t have much of a range at all — insects have to come into direct contact with them.

• Mosquito type: Because there are more than 3,500 species of mosquitoes around the world, there’s no one-size-fits-all mosquito trap. If you live in an area that’s notable for extreme mosquito populations, look into local guidance on which mosquito traps, killers, and repellents are the most effective in targeting these species. 

• Ease of cleaning: No one wants to clean up dead insects, but it’s better than having these pests pierce through your skin. Adhesive traps are easy to dispose of, but they may involve touching some of the dead mosquitoes. Traps with a slide-out tray provide you with an easy, touch-free method of disposal.

 

Dealing With Mosquito Bites

Even if you use the best mosquito trap you can find as well as a host of other mosquito killer and repellent products, mosquito bites are practically inevitable if you’re spending time outdoors in the warmer months. Therefore, it’s worth knowing how to handle them. 

After the surface of your skin is pierced, a part of the female mosquito’s mouth sucks blood. The saliva of the mosquito is simultaneously injected into your skin, which results in a bump. Some people have a mild reaction to a bite, while others can suffer from red, swelled skin and prolonged soreness. 

Regardless of your reaction, take the following steps to treat it:

• Wash the bite area with warm water and mild soap to remove residual blood and saliva. 
• Apply an ice pack for about 10 minutes to reduce any swelling and itching. Reapply the ice pack as needed. 
• Mix a solution of baking soda and water to create a paste that helps reduce the itch response. After applying the paste to the bite area, wait 10 minutes before washing it off. 
• Lastly, use an over-the-counter anti-itch cream to help relieve the itching. 

These efforts are designed to reduce itching, which can cause the bite area to become infected with repeated touching.

 

 

FAQs

• Will a mosquito trap attract more mosquitoes? 

In most cases, yes. This is by design, as traps are intended to attract and kill mosquitoes. We recommend placing any mosquito traps away from high-traffic areas to reduce the chances of suffering from a bite.

• What’s the difference between a trap and a zapper? 

Both of these pest control products lure and kill mosquitoes as well as other flying insects. While insects die from electrocution nearly instantly when they fly too close to a bug zapper, other traps kill them from dehydration or suffocation, which is a more torturous death. Zappers are also noisy, messy, and dangerous. 

• Do I need extra fuel, insecticide, or attractant for my mosquito trap? 

Insect traps that produce carbon dioxide to suffocate bugs require canisters of gas to work. Some fuel is usually provided with your purchase, but you’ll need to buy more if you plan on using the trap for years to come. Additionally, if you don’t mind the use of insecticides, combining them with electric or adhesive traps may increase the effectiveness of your pest control efforts. 

• Can I make my own mosquito trap? 

Yes. However, the effectiveness of your trap will pale in comparison to a store-bought one. A common DIY mosquito trap consists of a solution of yeast and sugar, which produces carbon dioxide. By mixing this solution in a container of water, the mosquitoes will drown. 

• How do I know if a mosquito trap is necessary? 

Many places around the United States and world are prone to mosquito infestations. Though freezing temperatures will keep them at bay, warm, humid weather as well as standing water will attract mosquitoes by the thousands. If you live in a warm climate or near a body of water, invest in at least one mosquito trap to make spending time outdoors vastly more enjoyable.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

EVEN NATURALS Mosquito Net Bed Canopy

 

What We Like: Rather than hanging from a single attachment point, this soft mosquito net is able to attach to four or six points depending on how it’s set up. As a result, it has a more rectangular shape to match your bed. While the densely woven fibers prevent even the smallest insects from making their way into your bed, the net is still breathable, allowing air to travel through unimpeded.

South To East Bed Canopy

 

What We Like: If you want to make bedtime special for your kid while keeping them shielded from biting bugs, we recommend this hanging bed cover. It’s made from 100% mesh polyester for breathability and durability. Your purchase also includes all of the necessary hanging hardware as well as a convenient carrying bag for travel.

Zonon Net Barrier

 

What We Like: Whether you need to protect the plants in your garden or shield the food at your outdoor party, the sky’s the limit with this generous roll of mosquito netting. It’s made with durable polyester that’s also odorless, see-through, and partially flexible. Additionally, it has other applications besides bug protection. For example, it can be cut and used as a wedding veil.

Anvin Mosquito Head Mesh Nets 

 

What We Like: Designed to fit over your hat and protect you all the way to your torso, these wearable mosquito nets provide ample upper-body coverage. They include small bags to stuff them in when they’re not in use, and they’re made with an extra-fine mesh to keep away the smallest flying insects. The elastic drawstrings also tighten the nets to prevent any bugs from getting in through the bottom. 

 

Timbuktoo Mosquito Nets Baby Mosquito Net

 

What We Like: The presence of mosquitoes and other flying insects shouldn’t discourage you from taking your little one outside. This mosquito netting fits snuggly around a variety of baby carriers. While the netting forms an impenetrable wall against bugs, it’s also breathable and safe, as it’s compliant with several regulatory bodies. 

 

Buying Guide

Mosquito nets protect campers from mosquito bites that could potentially transmit blood-borne illnesses. Although it may seem like all mosquito nets are one and the same, there are a few differences to note. To comb through these differences, read the following information. 

• Indoor vs. outdoor use: Indoor and outdoor mosquito nets have different designs.

• • Indoor: Though indoor nets can be used to keep out any mosquitoes that happen to make their way inside, they’re mostly used as a decorative element to accentuate a bed. However, if the insulation or weatherstripping in your home is particularly poor, an indoor net can be useful during the summer. 

• • Outdoor: Nothing ruins a trip outdoors like a swarm of blood-thirsty mosquitoes. Fortunately, wearable nets that cover your head and face are available to prevent countless would-be bites. A simple mosquito net can also be used to keep flying insects out of gazebos, hammocks, and tents. 

• Size: Many mosquito nets come in a pre-cut size. If you can’t find the right size, you can buy a roll of mosquito netting and trim it to meet your exact size specifications. Mid-sized nets generally cover the area required for one adult to sit or stand comfortably. Smaller, more compact models are available to protect a child or pet. 

• Material: Most mosquito nets are made using polyester, nylon, or plastic. These fibers are finely woven together to create a soft, silky mesh. If a mosquito net is labeled as “luxury,” this usually means that its mesh is softer than the competition — similar to high-thread-count pillows and sheets. 

• Hole count: Some manufacturers provide you with a hole count over a certain area, which tells how small the holes in the mesh are. The greater the number, the harder it is for mosquitoes and other flying insects to penetrate the netting. 

• Closure design: While wearable mosquito nets slip on or off or use a drawstring, many nets use a zipper closure that allows you to enter and exit the protected space. Zippers tend to be the most secure closure option, while fabric fasteners may allow a few mosquitoes in.

• Hanging design: Many mosquito nets have the ability to hang above you, though the hanging mechanism varies among products. Some nets, for example, are hung with ropes and carabiners secured to nearby trees. Others hang from a gazebo, ceiling, or other structure using the included hardware. 

 

How To Maximize the Use of Your Mosquito Net

Mosquito nets are remarkably versatile items that can be used in a variety of situations — not just for sleeping at night. Here are some tips and ideas to help you maximize the use of your mosquito net:

• Use a mosquito net to cover growing plants. While fully grown plants tend to be pretty resilient, baby plants are sensitive to pests and could die prematurely unless they’re protected. With the breathability of a net, your plants will still get ample sunlight, air, and water. 

• Wear a mosquito net around your head while you’re doing yard work. Even if there aren’t many mosquitoes out during the heat of the day, other bugs may be attracted to the sweat on your skin. You can also find full-body netting to protect your arms and legs if you’re working near a body of water where mosquitoes and other biting insects tend to swarm. 

• Consider an insecticide-treated net. Though many mosquito nets don’t come pre-treated, some do. They work as a two-part protection system against mosquito bites.

• Cut a large roll of netting to meet your needs. Bed canopies and wearable nets already come in set sizes, but a roll allows you to cut just the right amount of netting for whatever you need to cover. Here are several items you can cover with cut netting: 

• • • Food at an outdoor event
    • Doorways of a treehouse or other outdoor play area
    • Personal belongings at the beach
    • Doorways of an open garage
• Don’t allow too much tension. If you’re using a tight-fitting mosquito net for a baby stroller, mattress, or other purpose, leave some slack. Too much tension in the mesh webbing makes it prone to tearing. 

 

 

FAQs

• Will a regular, general-purpose net work in place of a mosquito net? 

Yes, but it may not work as well as a mosquito net depending on the size of its holes. 

• Why should I choose a mosquito net over repellents or other mosquito-related products? 

Unless they’re pre-treated with insecticides, mosquito nets are a chemical-free way to avoid getting bitten. Most nets are also reusable, so they’re more environmentally friendly than sprays or other repellents that come in single-use plastic bottles. 

• Can I hang a mosquito net by myself? 

It depends on the size of the net. Mosquito nets for personal use, such as head nets, are easy to don with no help. Larger canopy-style nets for queen- or king-size mattresses, however, may be easier to hang with someone else’s help.

• What items can I pair with a mosquito net to make camping more enjoyable?

Camping and mosquito bites often go hand in hand. Though bug sprays, long sleeves, and fine-mesh tents are your primary weapons to ward off mosquitoes, we also recommend using a portable fan to keep mosquitoes away from your immediate area.

• Are mosquito nets available in other colors besides white? 

Yes. The majority of mosquito nets come in white, but there are a handful of colorful options. Other common colors are brown and green to blend in with the surrounding landscape. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Spectracide Japanese Beetle Trap

 

What We Like: A user-friendly and effective entry-level option to safeguard your plants, this trap uses both pheromones and floral scents to attract Japanese beetles for an entire beetle season. It comes with two disposal bags, which are useful if you want minimal contact with the dead bugs. Spectracide also offers this trap in multipacks if you have a larger yard or infestation.

RESCUE! Japanese Beetle Traps

 

What We Like: Though these traps don’t have a two-part system to attract beetles, their quantity and reusability make them a solid option if your infestation is getting out of hand. The bags are also well-designed. Their base can be opened to empty dead beetles, and their cartridge of pheromone attractant sits on top of the bag. 

Stingmon Sticky Traps

 

What We Like: Using vibrant yellow to attract flies, thrips, gnats, beetles, and more, these simple insect traps are easy to place where you need them. With their staked ends, they work well in garden soil. For enhanced performance against Japanese beetles, you can apply a separate lure to attract them.

Safer Brand Japanese Beetle Trap

 

What We Like: If the small size of most Japanese beetle trap bags is a concern for you, rest assured that this trap comes with two oversized collection bags that take much longer to fill to capacity. Once the beetles fly to the attractant pack, they’ll fall into the bag. The hourglass shape of the bag prevents these pests from flying or crawling out. 

Catchmaster Japanese Beetle Traps

 

What We Like: With the help of these traps, you can protect your valuable plants without completely clashing with your carefully curated yard decor. The traps are practical, coming in a pack of three and covering a total area of 5,000 square feet. The dual-part lure system also attracts both male and female Japanese beetles for maximum effectiveness. 

 

Buying Guide

When you’re purchasing a Japanese beetle trap, you’ll want to consider coverage area, size, and other factors. Here’s some additional information about these types of traps to help you make an informed decision. 

• Lure system: Most Japanese beetle traps use a two-part lure system to attract beetles. This two-part bait system consists of pheromones to attract male beetles and a floral scent to attract females. This combination attracts a higher volume of beetles than a one-part lure. 

• Lasting effect: Japanese beetle traps tend to last at least three to four months. This is enough of a lifespan to protect your yard for most of the gardening season. 

• Bag: The lure is often placed inside or on top of a bag that securely contains the captured beetles. Because of its hourglass shape, the beetles are incapable of escaping. Below are two elements that vary from bag to bag.

• Design: Although most traps have replaceable bags, some utilize a reusable design. If you want to make minimal contact with the bugs, opt for a disposable option. For a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option, use reusable ones.

• Size: If you have a large beetle infestation, opt for a larger bag, as this limits how frequently you have to replace or empty it.

• Coverage area: The standard coverage area for most Japanese beetle traps is 5,000 square feet. This is usually plenty of coverage for the average garden. However, if you own several acres of land, consider purchasing more than one trap system. 

 

How To Place Your Japanese Beetle Trap

After you’ve done your research and purchased a Japanese beetle trap, it’s important to carefully place it so that it works effectively. We’ve outlined some helpful tips below, but for more information, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines. 

• Install your traps downwind from the plants you’re protecting. If you attract beetles to traps upwind of your plants, they’ll inadvertently fly over them, pausing to wreak havoc on them. 
• Place your traps as far away from your plants as possible while still remaining within the manufacturer’s recommended range. The optimum distance for many Japanese beetle traps is about 30 feet away from your plants.
• Place your traps as early in the growing season as possible. This will help prevent females from mating and laying eggs. 
• As a supplementary trap, place buckets of soapy water under the bags to capture any beetles that don’t make it in. 
• If you have any geraniums, place traps near them. Research has shown that Japanese beetles become paralyzed after feeding on geranium petals. Though they’ll eventually recover, you can get them into a trap before they do. 
• For an eco-friendly way to dispose of Japanese beetle traps, use a reusable bag, and compost the dead beetles. 
• Japanese beetles are capable of flying long distances, so any attempts to reduce their population are more effective when your neighbors help out. Whether you have a community garden or plant-loving neighbors, talk to them about placing Japanese beetle traps of their own. 

 

 

FAQs

• How long does it take captured Japanese beetles to die? 

Once they’re stuck in the bag or on the adhesive, Japanese beetles will die of starvation within a few hours or days. 

• Who typically uses Japanese beetle traps? 

Gardeners and farmers typically use these traps to protect their plants. However, the average homeowner with a few plants can also benefit from a trap. 

• What typically attracts Japanese beetles? 

Japanese beetles are attracted to a wide variety of crops, trees, shrubs, and flowers. The United States Department of Agriculture has an extensive list of the types of plants that are particularly susceptible to Japanese beetle damage. 

• Are Japanese beetle traps safe to use around pets and children? 

Yes, as long as they don’t touch the lure. Although the lure isn’t necessarily harmful to humans, it will cause Japanese beetles to swarm around them. Additionally, make sure to supervise your pets and kids around the trap so that they don’t accidentally tear open the catch bag and release live or dead beetles. 

• Will my Japanese beetle trap begin to smell bad after it catches beetles? 

Yes. Though this foul odor is a sign that your trap is successful, it can overpower the attractant, preventing other beetles from coming to the trap. Because of this, we recommend emptying the bag at least once every few days.  

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray

 

What We Like: This spray uses a mixture of natural ingredients to repel fleas while reducing your pet’s itchiness. Lemongrass oil, a repellent that works against fleas as well as ticks, is known to stop the heart of these pests, so it’s remarkably effective. When it’s used as advised, you can apply this flea spray directly to your pet’s fur. 

Black Flag Flea and Tick Killer

 

What We Like: For a one-time application that kills fleas at all stages of their growth cycle — and keeps them from coming back for up to seven months — consider this flea spray for your home. It’s not designed to be sprayed directly on your pet, but it works well on carpets, upholstery, rugs, baseboards, and moldings. As a bonus, it also kills carpet beetles and dust mites. 

Adams Flea and Tick Spray

 

What We Like: By applying a light mist onto furniture, carpets, rugs, drapes, bedding, and anywhere else that your pet’s hair may have touched, you’ll quickly minimize the flea population inside your home. Not only does this flea spray disrupt fleas at all stages of their life cycle, but it also kills and protects you against spiders, mosquitoes, ants, and other indoor insects. 

Advantage Flea, Tick, and Beg Bug Spray

 

What We Like: A complete flea control program would be remiss without a reliable spot spray. This concentrated and powerful flea spray comes in a sprayable can to hit areas of your furniture or carpet where fleas are hiding. After a thorough application, you’ll have two weeks of protection. This flea spot spray also works on wood and ceramic surfaces in addition to carpet and upholstery. 

 

BASF Pressurized Flea Insecticide

 

What We Like: To provide respite for the next seven months, use this concentrated flea insecticide. The pyrethrin blend works quickly and effectively to disrupt the flea’s life cycle, preventing reproduction and killing adults in a matter of hours. When you follow the application directions, this product is safe to use around — but not on — your pets. 

 

Buying Guide

No cat or dog owner wants to see their pet in discomfort, scratching and irritating their skin. More so, fleas can quickly move from your pet’s hair to invade your home. To buy the best flea spray for your infestation, consider these purchasing factors:

• Ingredients: As with most pest control products for home use, there are natural, non-toxic options as well as potent, chemical-laden options. Any flea spray that’s intended to be applied directly to your pet’s coat should be non-toxic and safe. Furniture and carpet treatment sprays can contain stronger chemicals, such as Nylar. 

• Drying time: Flea sprays won’t immediately dry after you’ve sprayed the affected area. Certain products dry in five minutes, while others take up to two hours. If you’re spraying an affected area as opposed to your pet’s fur, wait until the surface has dried before allowing your family or pets to use the space again. 

• Application frequency and lasting effect: Some flea sprays last longer than others. If a spray doesn’t last longer than a week, you’ll need to reapply frequently until the infestation is gone. For minor infestations, a small bottle between eight and 24 ounces should suffice. However, these sprays tend to have a relatively long shelf life, so it can’t hurt to buy a multipack or gallon-sized container in case the fleas return. 

• Coverage area: Smaller bottles of flea spray can only treat a few rooms or pieces of furniture, while larger jugs of insecticide can probably cover all of the affected areas in a single, thorough application. Look for the estimated coverage area on your spray’s label, which is often expressed in square footage. 

 

How To Safely and Effectively Apply Flea Spray

From affected furniture to pet fur, flea sprays are labeled for different uses. Below are general guidelines on how to use a flea spray, but read the label of your particular one before you get started. 

 

Spraying Your Cat or Dog With Flea Spray

If the flea spray you’ve chosen is safe to apply directly to your pet, get them ready by bathing them first. Don’t forget to wear gloves and other protective gear to minimize the potential spread of fleas. 

After your pet is bathed, lightly spritz them starting at the head and going to the tail. Consider ruffling their fur to spread the spray. Avoid spraying the solution directly into your pet’s face; instead, spray a cloth, and rub their face with it, taking care to avoid their eyes, mouth, and nose. 

 

Spraying the Area Where Your Pet Lounges

It’s more common to find a flea spray that’s applied to your pet’s bedding or other areas where they lounge, sleep, or play. First check the label of your flea spray to verify that any of its chemicals or active ingredients won’t stain or otherwise damage the surface you’re treating. Then, apply the spray until the area is visibly wet. Give the treated area one or two hours to fully dry before letting anyone come back into the space. 

 

 

FAQs

• Where do fleas come from? 

Fleas are typically brought into your home on your pet’s fur, but they often come from another animal, much like how lice migrate from one person to another through hair. Fleas can also be found in shady areas or near long grass or bushes.

• How do flea sprays work? 

Similar to other pest control sprays, flea sprays act as direct contact killers. Most use a form of pyrethroids, which are natural insecticide extracts from chrysanthemum flowers. Stronger flea sprays may also contain an insect growth hormone regulator that halts the fleas’ rate of reproduction. Other flea sprays use natural essential oils, which aren’t as strong as conventional insecticides, but are generally non-toxic and safe. 

• Will flea sprays with toxic chemicals pose a health threat to my pets and kids? 

Most manufacturers state that as long as the product is carefully applied as directed, then it’s safe to use around pets and children. However, if you apply too much pesticide, they can pose a health risk. Cats are generally more susceptible to negative reactions from pesticides than dogs, just like infants are more at risk than school-aged children. 

• Can I make my own flea spray? 

As with other pest control efforts, you also have the option of trying your luck with making something at home. The most popular homemade flea treatment uses a solution that contains half water and half vinegar. Fleas hate vinegar and are less likely to jump onto a surface or host that’s covered with it. Note that a homemade vinegar solution spray will only deter — not kill — fleas. We recommend using a homemade spray like this in conjunction with stronger store-bought products. 

• Should I vacuum my carpet and furniture after applying flea spray? 

Yes. Vacuum immediately before and 24 hours after the flea spray is applied; do this at least twice a week for the next two weeks or until the fleas appear to be gone. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Monterey Slug Killer

 

What We Like: This slug killer is ideal for owners of large gardens or small farms with its safe ingredients and five-pound quantity. It’s designed to begin killing slugs and snails in as quickly as three to six days after the granules are spread.

BUG-A-SALT Insect Killer

 

What We Like: Effective against a handful of pests — both flying and ground-dwelling — this rifle-shaped salt applicator makes neutralizing unwanted slugs around your property both fun and entertaining. Consider this as an ideal supplement to traditional repellents to ensure that no rogue slugs or snails make their way into your garden bed.

Southern Ag Snail and Slug Bait

 

What We Like: The potency of this slug repellent will pay dividends for busy farmers and gardeners who are aiming to protect their crops against invasive slugs and snails. One pound of pellets is strong enough to protect up to 1,500 square feet, so the entire 20-pound bag should cover up to 30,000 square feet. It’s also designed not to wash away in heavy rain.

Safer Brand Diatomaceous Earth

 

What We Like: If you’re struggling with multiple invasive insects in your backyard, but you don’t want to use harmful pesticides, we recommend this four-pound bag of all-natural diatomaceous earth. This powder consists of fossilized remains of freshwater algae, which work to quickly dehydrate and suffocate a variety of insects. Keep in mind that you may need to reapply it once it gets wet as it will lose effectiveness.

Beslands Snail Traps

 

What We Like: While other slug and snail repellent products may leave your property scattered with dead bodies, these traps make cleanup and disposal easy. After the slugs slither into a trap, they’re stuck inside until you empty them in a trash can. Interestingly, the manufacturer recommends pouring beer into each trap to lure them. 

 

Buying Guide

There are several factors to consider when it comes to choosing the best slug repellent for your needs. For example, if you’re treating a field of crops, you’ll probably want a large bag of high-strength product. Below, we take a look at some of the most important aspects of slug and snail repellents.

• Type: Slug repellents and killers are available in a few forms: 

• Pellet: Pellets are granules that are dispersed across the ground. They poison slugs that come too close. They generally last several weeks, even with rainfall. 

• Liquid: Some slug repellents use similar ingredients as pellets but in the form of liquid. These products either come in ready-to-spray containers or need to be mixed with water before they’re applied. One downside to liquid repellents is that they’re more vulnerable to being washed away in the rain. 

• Trap: Slug traps are easy to set away from your plants. Oftentimes, they are reusable and don’t require the use of chemicals or other toxic ingredients to bait slugs.

• Other: There are a variety of other general pest control products that could work to kill or repel slugs on your property, including salt dispersers and diatomaceous earth powder. 

• Coverage: If you have a large property or infestation, consider buying in bulk. This could mean 20-pound bags of pellets, one-gallon jugs of concentrate, or 10-packs of traps.

• Longevity: Although residual effects are possible, most slug and snail repellents won’t work as designed past the manufacturer’s estimated date range. Usually, a thorough application will last slightly over one month. Bear in mind that varying weather conditions can reduce the longevity of slug repellents.

• Ingredients: As with most pest control products, many slug repellents use harmful chemicals, such as metaldehyde and sulfur. Iron phosphate and some other active ingredients, however, may be relatively safe to use around pets and children when they’re applied as directed. You can also opt for a solution that uses natural ingredients, such as a salt disperser.

 

Slugs vs. Snails: Understanding the Difference

You may have heard the terms slug and snail used interchangeably, much like how we’ve referred to them in this review. They’re similar enough to group together, but there are a few key differences.

• Slugs and snails are both mollusks, so they’re close relatives. However, the main difference between them is that slugs don’t have shells, while snails do. 
• During times of low humidity or extreme temperatures, snails can retreat into their shell and seal the opening using a thin layer of hardened mucus and calcium.
• Because slugs don’t have a protective shell, they prefer to spend more time underground. This makes them especially destructive with root crops as well as buried seedlings. 
• Snails and slugs share the same overall diet, require the same environmental conditions, and have the same reaction to bait. As a result, any bait that kills slugs also kills snails, and vice versa. 

 

 

 

FAQs

• When is the best time of day to use slug repellent? 

Slugs and snails typically come out after you water your plants or after a rainstorm. Therefore, that’s the best time to distribute bait. 

• Are slug repellents effective against rodents? 

Granule slug repellents may be effective in killing rats and mice around your yard. However, this depends on how much bait you sprinkle around your property and how much the rodents consume. In terms of ingredients, slug repellents that contain metaldehyde are usually the most lethal to rodents. 

• How often do I need to apply slug repellent? 

When you’re using granules, we recommend reapplying every 30 days. Liquid repellent should be applied every two or three weeks or more frequently if your area experiences a lot of rain. Slug and snail traps should be replaced as soon as they’re full, so make sure to check them on a daily or weekly basis. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

 

What We Like: While much safer for your body than harsh insecticides and DEET, the essential oils found in most mosquito repellent bracelets can still irritate the skin. To minimize irritation and maximize effectiveness, these mosquito repellent wristbands use lemongrass oil, citronella oil, and other essential oils tested by a third party.

BuggyBands Mosquito Patches With Bracelets

 

What We Like: Applying bug spray and other mosquito repellent products to your kids can be fussy and inconvenient. These mosquito repellent patches make this process fun and care-free for children, as each sticker contains one of six colorful and charming animal designs — turning mosquito protection into wearable decoration. The patches come in airtight bags, too, so they’ll last up to three or four years if they stay unopened and are stored correctly. 

PARA’KITO Bug Repellent Wristband 

 

What We Like: Waterproof, comfortable, and adjustable, we recommend this refillable mosquito repellent bracelet for anyone who spends significant time outdoors. Whether you’re a canoe instructor or an avid backpacker, this reusable wristband cuts down on waste. We also like the soft neoprene material of this wristband, which is a nice departure from the rubber and silicone materials found in many other wearable mosquito repellents. 

BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets

 

What We Like: Putting on bug spray is something that many of us tend to forget. If you’re a camp counselor or someone responsible for a large group of people, it’s even more difficult to get everyone to apply bug spray, even if you remember to put it on yourself. This bracelet 24-pack is a convenient option because you can hand each person a wristband to wear for the next several days. The essential oils packed in each bracelet provide ample protection, helping ward off bothersome and blood-sucking mosquitoes. 

Mosquitno Mosquito Repellent Wristbands

 

What We Like: Designed to repel mosquitoes as well as flies, gnats, and other pesky flying insects, we like the natural alternative these repellent bracelets provide. They are waterproof and durable and won’t rub, scratch, or irritate the skin of the wearer, making them a suitable companion for active outdoor enthusiasts. 

 

Buying Guide

In recent years, insect repellent products have started being made with all-natural, non-toxic ingredients as a safer alternative to conventional pesticides. Wearable products, such as mosquito repellent bracelets, offer additional convenience. To help you sift through the myriad of bracelet options available to you on Amazon, we created this guide to explain some product features to think about.

• Ingredients: Mosquito repellent bands contain a mixture of essential oils. Though uncommon, some bracelets also have light concentrations of insecticides, such as 0.5% permethrin, coated on the exterior. 

• Durability: Find a mosquito repellent wristband that won’t get damaged by prolonged sun or water exposure. If it’s accidentally dropped on the ground or stretched to fit the wearer’s wrist, these bracelets shouldn’t snap or break. 

• Quantity: Most mosquito repellent bracelets are sold in packs ranging anywhere from five to 50 or more. You can also find single bracelets, which are generally made with thicker materials. Singular bracelets are usually intended to be reusable or offer a much longer lifespan. 

• Effectiveness: Mosquito repellent bracelets repel mosquitoes, but only to a certain percentage. Each plant is different, so the essential oils extracted from them — even those processed in the same factory — will be slightly different, resulting in varying potencies. The higher quality the manufacturer’s extraction process is, the stronger and more effective the bracelet will be. 

• Sizing: Most mosquito repellent wristbands are designed to be one-size-fits-all. Certain reusable wristbands sold in single quantities may be available in multiple sizes or use an adjustable strap to fit wrists of all sizes. 

 

How Do Mosquito Repellent Bracelets Work? 

These bracelets release natural chemicals into the air that are designed to block a mosquito’s ability to smell or detect hosts. In short, this means that you’re no longer an appealing target to a mosquito. 

The length of time that mosquito repellent wristbands work varies depending on the oils in your bracelet and the mosquitoes in your area. Even though bracelets like these won’t outright kill mosquitoes, they’re worth using for some level of protection if you’re opposed to putting chemicals, such as DEET, on your body. To combat extreme mosquito populations, a combination of mosquito repellent bracelets and skin coverings, such as mosquito nets, is recommended. 

 

Additional Ways To Avoid Mosquitoes (or Mosquito Bites)

Mosquitoes are an unfortunate reality of life. Depending on your location, the time of year, and your occupation or recreational habits, you may find yourself covered in numerous bites after an outing. Here are some additional pointers that will help you avoid this:

• Dump out standing water around you. 
• Repair holes in window or door screens. 
• Wear light-colored clothing, especially outdoors. 
• Use air conditioning, if available, or run a fan.
• Wear multiple layers of clothing. A single, relatively thick layer will also suffice.

 

 

FAQs

• How do I use mosquito repellent bracelets? 

Wear one or two bracelets. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines on how long the bracelets last once they’re opened, and replace them accordingly. 

• Are mosquito repellent bracelets safe around pets and children? 

These products are generally safer around pets and children compared to conventional forms of mosquito repellent that contain DEET and various toxic insecticides. However, the concentrated essential oils found in mosquito repellent bracelets may irritate the skin of children or users of any age. Additionally, dogs and cats may suffer from an allergic reaction or poisoning if they accidentally ingest a mosquito repellent bracelet.

• What essential oils are commonly used in mosquito repellent wristbands? 

Geraniol oil, lemongrass oil, and citronella oil are the most common types of essential oils found in mosquito repellent bands. They’re also found in other natural pest control products. 

• Can mosquito repellent bracelets get wet? 

Many mosquito repellent bracelets continue functioning after getting wet, making them useful for time spent near lakes or rivers. However, when they’re used near or in water, their lifespan may decrease. As long as you can continue to smell the active essential oils in your bracelet, it should continue to effectively repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. 

• Do mosquito repellent bracelets expire? 

As long as the bracelet is sealed in its original packaging, it should last many years. When they’re opened and worn, however, mosquito repellent bracelets usually have a lifespan between 50 and 240 hours. To get the most out of each mosquito wristband, only open the packaging when you’re ready to use one.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

TERRO Ant Bait Stations

 

What We Like: Harnessing the power of borax, these intuitive ant traps can turn your recent ant discovery into a thing of the past. Not only are they designed to attract ants fast, but their patented design keeps them working longer by preventing the liquid inside from drying out. The manufacturer recommends using six bait stations at a time to ensure complete home coverage, so you’ll have enough traps for two long-lasting applications. 

Advance Ant Bait

 

What We Like: Many ant baits work on a wide variety of ant species, and this container of granules is no exception. You’ll find these small granules easy to spread for consistent coverage. The granules are also weather-resistant, so they’ll continue to work as designed even if they get wet. 

BestNest Ant Traps

 

What We Like: These units hang above existing bird feeders. All they’re filled with is water, giving you an insecticide- and chemical-free pest control solution. Since ants don’t like to swim, the traps deter them from venturing too close to your feeders. We also like their durable PVC construction that withstands hot and cold weather.

Hot Shot Insect Killer

 

What We Like: Ideal to use near walls, in closets, in cabinets, under sinks, and under refrigerators, all you need to do is place a self-contained trap where you’ve seen ants, and the trap will do the rest. Not only will the traps kill the ants that you’ve spotted, but they’ll also kill any hidden ones. After a few weeks of use, your properly set traps should destroy the entire colony. 

Amdro Ant Block

 

What We Like: From pharaoh ants to big-headed ants, the number of outdoor ants that want to make their way inside your home is disturbing. Fortunately, outdoor granule baits like this one exist to send ants marching back to their colony. The shake container includes enough ant bait for multiple applications for smaller homes or a thorough application for larger ones. 

 

Buying Guide

When activated, ant traps and bait start attracting ants within hours and work continuously for several weeks or months. However, different active ingredients target specific ant species, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s some information to consider as you begin your search: 

• Active ingredients: Traps and baits contain one of the following active ingredients to attract and kill ants in droves. 

• Boric acid: Boric acid has been used for decades as a common and relatively safe (to humans) insecticide. For ants, boric acid is lethal. It’s often mixed with a fructose- or sucrose-based solution to target sugar ants. Boric acid is also found in versatile ant traps and baits that work on both grease and sugar ants. 

• Abamectin: Though less common than boric acid, abamectin is particularly effective against protein ants. Abamectin is often sold in granule form. You can load the granules into bait stations or spread them around your home when loose ant bait isn’t a concern. 

• Hydramethylnon: This insecticide is used in many ant traps and killers to target a wide variety of species. A major benefit of hydramethylnon is that it poses minimal toxic risk to humans. However, it’s often used with other potent insecticides. 

• Knockdown effect: Knockdown effect refers to how fast a pest control product begins working. Some ant traps begin killing ants within two or three hours of being set out, while others can take a few days to start claiming victims. 

• Lasting protection: Ant traps last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, with the longest-lasting brands advertising up to six months of use. Depending on how severe your ant infestation is and whether you’re using the bait outdoors where it’s exposed to the elements, you may need to replace or reapply sooner than instructed. 

• Ease of use: The most intuitive ant traps have a peel-and-place design to make activating and setting each trap as quick and easy as possible. Standalone gels, granules, liquids, and other ant-killing products may require more time and effort to spread around your home.

• Mess: Ant traps that use liquid or gel bait may leave small spots of sticky, mildly toxic residue on your surfaces. Granules and powders, on the other hand, may need to be swept up and thrown away once your ant infestation dies down, though sometimes they naturally disintegrate over the course of a few months. 

 

Causes of an Ant Infestation

The best way to get rid of ants is to take a proactive approach and prevent them from entering your home in the first place. However, even the most diligent homeowners will notice a grouping of ants at one point or another. Knowing how to avoid making your home a comfortable place for ants to settle is important. As you finalize your search for the best ant traps on the market, think about these common causes of ants:

• Abundant food: Ants can establish colonies around your home by discovering just an ounce of food. Open food containers and loosely bagged trash tend to attract ants, among other pests.

• Moisture: All insects need some level of moisture to survive, and ants are no different. As a result, they often seek out easily available water sources, such as leaky plumbing. 

• Safe harborage: Ants almost always nest outside under rocks, in the ground, or within vegetation. However, some species develop satellite colonies that pioneer to invade voids within your walls. Ants perceive these cracks in your walls as protection from predators. 
• Ideal temperature: Ant colonies tend to thrive if the right temperature and humidity levels are present. Summer months tend to bring the most ants from the hot pavement to the inside of your home.

 

 

FAQs

• What forms do ant baits come in? 

All ant traps contain bait with some type of active ingredient. These baits can come in liquid, gel, granule, or powder form, with each one working differently.

• Liquid: This sweet solution works best to attract sugar ants.

• Gel: You can squeeze gel bait into cracks or holes where ants are coming from. 

• Granule: These larger chunks of ant bait are usually best for outdoor use, helping to create a barrier between the inside of your home and the colony of ants living outside of it. 

• Powder: This fine powder evenly spreads for a consistent layer of ant protection. 

• Are ant sprays better than ant traps?

Taking matters directly into your own hands and spraying ant killer may seem more effective than idly setting out a trap. In the short-term, this may be true, but a well-placed trap will attract the majority of nearby ants, including the queen. If the queen ant dies, the colony will collapse or retreat from your home, thereby solving your ant infestation.

• Are ant traps best suited for indoor or outdoor use? 

Though many ant traps are designed for indoor and outdoor use, some manufacturers sell ant traps specifically intended for one or the other. Outdoor traps are usually waterproof. 

• What should I be aware of before I set out my ant traps? 

Don’t be surprised if your ant infestation appears to magnify significantly a few hours or days after setting out traps. These traps attract a lot of ants by design. Additionally, carefully monitor the areas around your traps to avoid stepping on ants. 

• Are ant traps safe to use around pets and children? 

Like with most pest control products, we urge you to exercise caution when setting ant traps around wandering pets and children. Loose bait is especially dangerous because it can be easily ingested. However, stations where the bait is contained deep within the housing is less likely to be a problem. If you’re particularly concerned about ingestion, you can opt for an ant spray made from natural ingredients, such as essential oils. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Ortho Fire Ant Killer

 

What We Like: Nipping new ant mounds in the bud is a great way to keep fire ants from entering your home or destroying your plants. Using 50% acephate as its active ingredient, this killer provides easy application and satisfying results. This bottle also conveniently seals using a suctioned lid, so you can safely store it for future applications. 

Surrender Fire Ant Killer

 

What We Like: Once you shake this ant-killing powder over the top of a fire ant mound, the acephate insecticide slowly seeps down into the bed. Spraying water on top of the dry powder also helps speed up the process and increase the potency of the chemicals. 

Orange Guard Home Pest Control

 

What We Like: Harnessing the power of orange peel extract, this pest control solution is considered safe. It’s a viable alternative to traditional insecticides that cause health complications if they’re accidentally ingested. The citric acid used in the liquid solution is strong enough to kill a variety of insects, including fire ants, on contact. 

Ortho Insect Killer

 

What We Like: If you’re willing to take preventative measures to keep out fire ants and other pests before they appear, we recommend using this versatile insect spray. It creates a perimeter around your home using diluted bifenthrin as its active ingredient. The extendable sprayer also allows you to hold the jug with one hand and spray with the other, making application easy, accurate, and comfortable.

AMDRO Fire Ant Bait

 

What We Like: This large two-pound jug of granules uses powerful hydramethylnon — an insecticide known to kill fire ants. All you have to do is sprinkle two to five tablespoons of it around fire ant mounds or wherever fire ants are spotted. The poisonous granules also work on mounds that you can’t see, as fire ants carry the bait through underground tunnels.

 

Buying Guide

Fire ant killers come in many forms. Though any product you choose should help with your infestation, finding the right killer for your needs will save you time and effort and ensure that the colony is fully eliminated. From active ingredients to lasting power, think about the below factors before you make a final decision. 

• Type: Below are the common types of ant killers you’ll see on the market.

• Granule: Ant-killing granules are tiny pesticide chunks that spread easily around the perimeter of your home. They’re usually designed for outdoor use to control fire ant populations over relatively large areas. Granules take effect over several days to weeks. 

• Dust: Fire ant dust is usually sprinkled directly over a colony. It won’t result in instant fire ant deaths, but it gets soaked into the mound to kill the queen and colony in a matter of days. Spraying water on the dust after it’s applied also increases its effectiveness. 

• Gel: These tiny syringes of thick gel allow you to inject the fire ant poison into small cracks and holes to seal potential entry points into your home. 

• Spray: For instant gratification, choose a fire ant spray. Most sprays kill fire ants and other insects instantly. However, they may not kill the queen or wipe out the entire colony. 

• Trap: Traps use one of the above baits to lure ants in. The ants usually take the poison back to their colony. You can place these traps in the corner of a room, behind a refrigerator, or anywhere else where you’ve seen fire ant activity in your home.

• Ingredients: The vast majority of fire ant killer products use toxic chemicals, such as bifenthrin, hydramethylnon, and acephate, to destroy fire ants without question. However, these chemicals can be dangerous to humans, plants, and pets. Less potent options are available using natural ingredients, namely commercial-grade citric acid. 

• Area covered: Fire ant killers are advertised to treat a certain number of mounds or a certain radius. Per-mound products typically kill between 100 and 150 colonies, while other products treat 3,000–5,000 square feet. 

• Knockdown effect: This term refers to how long it takes for a fire ant killer to start working. Sprays usually kill fire ants and other insects on contact, while the other forms take multiple days to begin working their magic.

• Lasting effect: The lasting effect of a fire ant killer has an inverse relationship with its knockdown effect. The faster a product begins working, the shorter it lasts. Conversely, a product that takes days to start working can last several months.

 

Fire Ants 101

It’s important to be able to identify fire ants to avoid and eliminate them. Here’s some information about fire ants to help you familiarize yourself with this common enemy: 

• Even though you can’t see the colony, it may exist underground. It can take several months for a colony of fire ants to grow a mound that’s large enough to be visible. 
• Fire ants feed on a wide range of foods, including fresh fruit, plant nectar, seeds, and other insects. They’re highly attracted to fatty foods. 
• The typical fire ant colony contains over 200,000 ants.
• Unless they’re interrupted with a killer, fire ants go through four stages of life. They start as eggs and become larvae when the eggs hatch. From there, fire ants rapidly grow into pupae, which eventually form full-grown ants.
• Worker ants can create extensive underground tunnels capable of reaching lengths as far as 25 feet away from the mound. 
• Single-queen colonies are the most common, but multi-queen colonies exist. They share resources and are tolerant of other colonies in close proximity.

 

 

FAQs

• What are fire ants? 

Fire ants are a type of ant that comes in over 200 species. The most common fire ants include native fire ants, red ants, and black fire ants. Like other ants, they’re usually found in gardens and pavement cracks. Fire ants produce a painful, stinging sensation when they bite. In addition to causing pain, they can destroy plants and electric wires. 

• Can I use a fire ant killer without damaging my plants? 

Unfortunately, most fire ant killers aren’t safe to use around your garden plants. They typically contain highly concentrated, toxic chemicals. You can find natural, non-toxic fire ant spray as an alternative, but make sure to read the instructions carefully before using them around your plants.

• Will fire ant killers hurt my grass? 

Many fire ant killers are designed to create a perimeter around your home, so it makes sense to be concerned about potential damage to your lawn. Most commercial-grade outdoor ant killers can be used on or near grass without harming it, so long as you carefully follow the instructions on the product label. 

• Are there any home remedies to get rid of fire ants? 

Yes. Some people pour boiling water over the fire ant colony or use fire to torch the colony. Neither of these options are particularly safe. One of the safest options is to mix citric acid with hot and soapy water and pour this solution onto the ant colony. Though effective, this option won’t work as well as fire ant killers with stronger chemicals.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Bayer Insecticide Dust

 

What We Like: This dust contains an active ingredient called deltamethrin, which is naturally derived from a flower. When the dust is lightly puffed through the air, it attacks the nerve cells of any insects that come in contact with it. As far as DIY termite killing goes, it’s a fairly versatile solution if you’ve discovered termites and other pests in your backyard. 

BioAdvanced Carpenter Ant and Termite Killer

 

What We Like: With ready-to-mix insecticide concentrate at your side, you can treat up to 42,000 square feet. Although this liquid specifically targets termites to stop them in their tracks, it’s also effective on over 60 other wood-destroying insects. You can also use it indoors around sinks, along baseboards, and in other areas.

Spectracide Termite Killing Stakes

 

What We Like: Intended for subterranean termites, this comprehensive termite-killing kit allows you to set up stakes around your home to create a perimeter. Once the perimeter is established, the stakes work to detect where there’s termite activity. You can apply an additional termite killer of your choosing to the affected areas while the stakes release their own chemicals to help treat them. 

BASF Termite Bait Stations

 

What We Like: Better suited for the avid handyman rather than someone just learning about DIY pest control, we recommend this set of termite bait stations if you are already treating the issue yourself and want some extra help. The units are cylindrical in shape and gray in color, so they look subtle. Note that you will need a spider tool to open and activate these bait stations, as this tool isn’t included. 

BASF Foam Insecticide

 

What We Like: Although getting rid of termites within your walls is difficult without the help of a pest control specialist, this termiticide foam can do the job. It works to reach and kill termites within walls, beneath tubs, and under floorboards. Anywhere that termites can scuttle around is prime real estate for this fast-sealing killer.

 

Buying Guide

When it comes to all of the termite killer options on Amazon, here’s some information to help you navigate these products and arrive at an informed decision: 

• Type: Common termite killers come in two forms — liquid and bait.

• Liquid barriers: Professionals often create a protective barrier around your home’s perimeter by digging a trench and applying a liquid termiticide to it. These treatments are non-repellent, so termites don’t notice them and carry the poison back to the colony after coming across it. 

• Direct liquid treatments: Also known as spot treatments, these termite killers involve professionals drilling holes into the woodwork and shooting foam into them. Foam can also go into existing cracks and crevices. The foam kills termites in the colony through poison transmission. 

• Baits: Termite baits are poison-filled traps placed strategically around your home’s perimeter. Termites are attracted to the wood, cellulose, or paper in the baits, which are laced with poison. Worker termites searching for wood sources find it, eat it, and carry it back to the colony, which spreads to the other termites and eventually kills them. 

• Versatility: Many termite killers specifically target termites, but some products are designed to kill other insects. For added versatility, look for a termite killer spray that also works against carpenter ants and other wood-eating pests.

• Size and coverage area: If termites are concentrated in a small area of your backyard, a single bottle of termite spray or a single bait station should work well to eliminate them. If your termite issue is widespread, a product with a large coverage area may be necessary to ensure multiple complete and even applications. 

• Active ingredients: Unlike pest control products for other insects, there are few natural and non-toxic alternatives to termite killers. The below chemicals should be used with caution and as directed.

• Hexaflumuron: An insect growth regulator, this insecticide prevents termites from growing a new exoskeleton. This eventually kills the queen. 

• Bifenthrin: This widely used insecticide is pyrethroid-based, meaning it’s naturally derived from chemicals contained in chrysanthemum flowers. It works to attack the termites’ nervous system. 

• Imidacloprid: Mimicking nicotine, this chemical is designed to block the neuronal pathway of termites. 

• Fipronil: Fipronil is a white, moldy-smelling powder that kills termites by disrupting their central nervous system. 

 

Knowing When To Call It Quits and Bring In a Professional

The myriad of pest control products online makes it simple and accessible to take pest control issues into your own hands. Termite killers are no exception. Though termites may not pose an immediate threat because you can’t see them behind your walls, it’s important to address them immediately before they do hundreds of thousands of dollars of damage. 

Termites can also be found in your garden soil, trees, and bushes. These infestations are easier to treat with a DIY termite killer solution. Unless you’re a pest control professional, this is what many termite killers are geared toward.

Because termites in your walls can cause such costly damage, it’s highly advised to seek out a professional. Once termites invade your home, you’re outnumbered. Even if you have a full house, the termites will have you beat — even the smallest colonies can fall somewhere around 50,000 termites. 

Once they’ve settled into your home, they’ve already done a great deal of damage. And when it comes to treating the wood that they’ve eroded away, many DIY sprays and other treatments dry fairly fast.

Depending on the type of termite, they typically infest a home in one of two ways:

• They create tubes or tunnels that snake up the walls of basements or crawl spaces. These are known as subterranean termites. 
• They burrow into furniture. These are known as drywood termites. 

If you spot these termite marks, it’s likely too late to tackle the issue on your own. To minimize further damage, the best termite killer is an industry professional. 

 

 

 

FAQs

• Why do termites eat wood? 

Termites seek out and devour anything that contains cellulose, an organic fiber found in wood and other densely fibrous materials, such as grass. Although termites eat other materials besides wood, they’re known for eating wood because most animals and pests can’t digest it. Termites have protozoa and bacteria in their gut that allows them to easily break down the plentiful cellulose fibers found in wood, providing them with a near-limitless food source, as wood is a common material.

• Can termite control sprays be used indoors and outdoors? 

Yes. Termite control sprays are designed to be versatile. However, some sprays may only repel termites, rather than kill them, depending on the strength of their active ingredients.

• Will termite killers harm humans or pets?

It’s possible for people and pets to suffer from poisoning if the chemicals in the killers are accidentally ingested. Although the average adult would have to consume a relatively high volume of termiticide to experience any ill effects, we do recommend exercising caution if you have any young children or pets around the house. Additionally, to avoid skin irritation, wear gloves and sleeves during application. 

• What are the typical signs of a termite infestation? 

The moment you see any of these red flags, it’s time to take immediate action by using a DIY killer or calling an exterminator:

• Damaged wood
• Random barrel-shaped debris
• Uneven or bubbling paint
• Faint noises within the walls
• Muddy tubes
• Discarded insect wings

• Can I use vinegar to get rid of termites? 

In the world of pest control, a common household item like vinegar may seem like liquid gold because of its versatility and effectiveness on insects. But when it comes to termites, you’ll need something stronger to take them out. Termites actually produce a crude form of vinegar in their gut as they break down wood and metabolize the cellulose within for nourishment. In this sense, applying vinegar is like fighting fire with fire.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Syngenta Insecticide

 

What We Like: This insecticide formula uses microencapsulation, which coats its active ingredient in a protective polymer to provide lasting results. Once the chemical is sprayed, the polymer breaks down to provide a timed, extended release. If you’re trying to target a high volume of wasp nests, this concentrate is a better solution than other aerosol-based sprays. 

Ortho Hornet and Wasp Killer

 

What We Like: Spraying a wasp nest can be intimidating, so you’ll want a spray that doesn’t just shoot far but is also accurate. This 16-ounce can of highly pressurized wasp spray delivers a thick and lethal foam to trap wasps. Though the initial knockdown effect is stronger than its residual effect, it’ll continue to banish returning insects for several days. 

Spectracide Wasp and Hornet Killer 

 

What We Like: Battling a wasp or hornet nest isn’t something that you want to walk into unprepared. With two large cans of wasp spray on your side, you can feel confident enough to thoroughly eliminate the nest without bringing in a professional exterminator. Though the spray accuracy isn’t as good as other wasp sprays, the larger quantity and generous spray distance will provide you with enough ammo to get the job done. 

BUG-A-SALT Insect Salter

 

What We Like: A wasp spray for the bold, we think this salter is a good solution to kill many bugs, including stinging ones. Whether you’ve used a regular foaming spray to treat the nest and you’re dealing with stragglers or you’re ready to go to battle one on one with the nest, the choice is yours using this novel way to kill insects. 

HARRIS Wasp Killer Spray

 

What We Like: If you’re looking for a versatile foaming wasp spray that’s safe to use when potential electrocution is a concern, this is your best bet. It’s rated for indoor and outdoor use and even works on other pests, such as flies, scorpions, crickets, and fire ants. Whether or not you have a current wasp problem, this is an insect spray worth keeping on hand just in case.

 

Buying Guide

Not sure what to look for in the best wasp spray? While any product you come across is likely to help curb your wasp infestation, capacity, consistency, and other factors are worth considering to find the product that’s best for your needs. Keep the below information in mind during your search so that you can make a confident, informed decision. 

• Consistency: Some wasp sprays are made of a liquid, while others come out as foam. The white foam is easier to see than the clear liquid, so you know exactly where you’ve sprayed. Foam is also designed to trap the insects against the nest, which is helpful in DIY situations when you’re not experienced at handling stinging bugs. Clear liquid wasp sprays are often better for commercial use. 

• Concentrate vs. ready-made: A jug of wasp spray concentrate may not sound appealing, since it’s not ready-to-spray. However, when diluted, it’ll last you much longer than a pressurized can of pre-mixed spray. Ultimately, choosing a formula comes down to how much area you need to treat and whether your wasp situation is a one-off or a costly, recurring issue. 

• Amount: Pressurized cans of wasp spray have a limited amount of foam in them, usually ranging from 12 to 20 ounces. Concentrates, however, typically come in much larger jugs, producing a gallon or so of solution once they’re mixed with water. The larger the container, the more wasp nests you can treat.

• Electrical safety: When sprayed on or near electrical wiring, such as power lines, many consumer-grade wasp sprays spark. However, some sprays use a non-conductive formula with a dielectric breakdown voltage rating that’s safe enough to prevent unintended electrocution. 

• Unintended damage: Some wasp sprays can stain clothes or kill plants in the area. Others are safe to use anywhere outdoors or indoors. Check the instructions on your can to make sure it’s safe around plants and fabrics if this is a concern for you. 

 

Preventing Wasps and Hornets

No one likes being around wasps or hornets. Whether or not you’ve been stung by one, it’s worth doing everything you can to make your home and yard an uninviting place for them. Though spraying wasp nests is a relatively simple solution, here’s what you can do to prevent them in the first place or keep them from coming back: 

• Remove food sources. Seal your trash can and recycling bin. Rinse containers before putting them in your recycling bin, and occasionally spray your trash can and recycling bin to remove food residue.
• Seal all cracks and crevices that could allow wasps inside your home.
• Fill any lawn or garden holes with soil. 
• Throw away overripe fruit on your trees or the ground. 
• Place wasp traps around your yard to kill scout drones before they can establish a new nest.

 

Wasp Spray Application Tips

If the above tips fail and you get an infestation, here is how to eliminate it with a spray:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Even if you’ve used wasp spray before, don’t assume the directions on a different can are the same. 
• Wear protective clothing, including eyewear, thick gloves, long sleeves, and pants, to cover your skin and minimize the risk of stings.
• Saturate the nest as much as possible. Wasp sprays not only kill wasps on contact but also leave residue on the nest to deter other wasps from visiting the area.
• Don’t use wasp spray for any other purposes. Even if you’ve heard that wasp spray is a suitable replacement for pepper spray, don’t use it this way.

 

 

FAQs

• How far will a can of wasp spray reach? 

Most people want to maintain their distance from a wasp’s nest when they spray it. Fortunately, most pressurized wasp sprays shoot about 20 feet away, providing you with enough time and space to thoroughly hit the target and vacate the area to avoid retaliation. 

• When is the best time to use wasp spray? 

Wasps are the least active early in the morning, before sunset, and when temperatures drop. These are the best times to hit a wasp nest with spray. 

• Will wasp spray irritate my skin? 

You don’t want to intentionally spray yourself or others with wasp spray. However, if your skin is accidentally exposed to wasp spray, don’t panic. You may feel a slight stinging sensation, but this will subside by immediately washing the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap. An anti-sting ointment will also help. As with handling many pest control products, make sure to cover your skin with long-sleeve shirts, close-toed shoes, and other clothing items.

• Do I need a separate attachment to apply wasp spray? 

If you’re getting a jug of spray concentrate, yes. You’ll need to mix the concentrate with water and pour the solution into a spray bottle. However, aerosol sprayers have a nozzle attached to the container. With these types of sprays, you simply shake the canister and spray away. If you have any tall trees you need to spray, consider investing in a 30-foot wasp pole. This special extender will let you spray strong insecticides directly on the nest from a safe distance. 

• How do I know if a wasp nest is active? 

If you see wasps crawling around a nest, it’s active. Sometimes, wasps start to build a nest in a certain spot before giving up and moving to a new location. If you don’t see wasps actively crawling on a nest, you can probably knock it down without using any spray. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Wildlife World Interactive House

 

What We Like: The trays for this bee house come with pre-cut holes that allow for the bees to enter, exit, and lay eggs. The house can be easily mounted against a wall, tree, or fence. Because it attracts non-threatening mason bees, it’s safe to have near children and pets. 

Niteangel Insect Hotel

 

What We Like: This house is built with wood and filled with bamboo, pinecones, and more to attract a variety of bees and other insects and get them to lay eggs and take shelter. Its roof is covered in iron to repel rainwater. Plus, the house can be hung or stand on its own.

FUNPENY Insect House

 

What We Like: This house uses cedar, bamboo, sawdust, and pinecone to create an inviting environment for bees and other insects. It can easily hang on a branch or post or be kept upright. Additionally, if its compartments need cleaning, you can use the included narrow brush to scrub around the fillings.

Wildlife World Bee Barrel

 

What We Like: This barrel contains tens of bamboo chutes with small holes running through them, giving bees a place to nest. Just hang this bee house in a warm, south-facing position, and watch as mason bees flock to it and pollinate flowers in your garden.

Cestari Tube Bee Hotel

 

What We Like: The nesting tubes in this bee house are made from sustainable bamboo and come in a range of shapes to accommodate different-sized bees. The outside of the house is crafted from durable pine that won’t weaken from rain.

 

Buying Guide

To aid you as you narrow down your options, we crafted this buying guide. Learn more about the distinguishing features of bee houses below. 

• Size: The size of your bee house determines how many bees can fit in it. However, you don’t want to go too big or you risk creating an unpleasant yard with too many swarming bees.

• Setup: Bee houses hang from a tree, mount to a wall or fence, or stand alone. None of these methods take much time or effort, so you can choose one based on where you have the space for a house.

• Design: Bee houses come in a variety of designs. In addition to coming in a wide range of colors, some bee houses have an open-faced design where you can easily look in to examine your insects’ behavior. Others have a closed design, so you can only see a little ways into the carved holes. 

• Material: Most bee houses are made from wood, but there are also some made from metal or plastic. All of these materials are fairly durable, though wood has a more classic, decorative look and is more expensive.

• Filling/Versatility: Bee houses are often filled with bamboo chutes. These chutes attract non-threatening nesting bees. However, some houses, typically called insect hotels, are filled with pinecones, wood shavings, and other natural materials to attract other types of bugs. Butterflies, ladybugs, cicadas, beetles, and more may decide to take shelter or nest in an insect hotel.

 

Tips for Attracting Bees to Your Garden

Bees pollinate your plants, allowing more seeds to germinate and flowers to grow. Bee houses can be a great way to attract bees to your garden, but here are some other simple steps you can take to increase your bee population: 

• Use the right flowers: Planting flowers that are good sources of pollen and nectar for bees can go a long way in ensuring you have a steady bee population. The plants that work best may vary based on what’s native to your area, but some flowers that bees are attracted to include white wild indigo, black-eyed Susan, bee balm, echinacea, California poppy, and evening primrose. 

• Avoid pesticides: Pesticides can be toxic to bees, so avoid using them in your garden. If you have a pest problem, use repellents with natural ingredients, such as essential oils.

• Have water available: Bees need water, so if you have a bird bath, sprinkler, irrigation system, or another water source, they’re more likely to come to your garden. 

• Provide a good habitat: A perfectly manicured lawn and garden won’t be attractive to bees, as they won’t be able to find materials to construct their nests. Consider leaving small piles of dry grass or dead wood around.

• Use color: Bees are drawn to colorful flowers, especially those that are blue, yellow, purple, and white. Try planting colorful flowers in clumps so that they can easily be spotted by bees. 

 

 

FAQs

• When is the best time to put out a bee house?

The best time to put your bee house out is right when your flowers are blossoming and the frost level is low.

• Where is the best location for a bee house?

Ideally, you’ll want to set up your bee house in a location that’s exposed to lots of sunlight. Also place it at least three feet off the ground to keep ants away.

• How big should the nesting tubes be?

Nesting tubes in a bee house should be at least six inches long with a diameter of no larger than three-eighths of an inch. Longer tubes allow bees to plant more eggs.  

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Agri-Fab Spike Aerator

 

What We Like: This aerator has a 100-pound tray capacity and 10 galvanized steel spikes to penetrate compact soil and provide thorough aeration. The tray has built-in holes to strap down your weight of choice as you ride around your lawn.

Greenworks Corded Dethatcher

 

What We Like: A dethatcher removes excess grass, debris, and other organic matter from the top layer of your lawn to refresh it. It’s also useful if your grass is shallow and only needs minor aeration. This particular detatcher has a corded design, requiring minimal manual labor and maintenance.

PLANTNOMICS Lawn Aerator Shoes

 

What We Like: Those with smaller lawns will find aerating efficient with these shoes that push into the soil as you walk. They have a one-size-fits-all design, so you can wear any type of shoe on their platform, preferably a close-toed one. Their two-inch spikes also allow for ample penetration.

Yard Butler Multi Spike Lawn Aerator

 

What We Like: Strengthen your lawn’s tolerance to heat and drought, and reduce runoff, evaporation, and pooling with this traditional manual spike aerator. Unlike a shoe aerator or a pull-behind aerator, this tool puts the control in your hands. The foot bar also lets you use your body weight to dig the spikes into the ground.

LawnStar Liquid Lawn Aerator

 

What We Like: Aerating your lawn on your own requires a lot of manual labor unless you have a motorized machine. However, an expensive and bulky machine may not be practical for every homeowner. This 32-ounce liquid aerator offers an easy-to-use alternative. It connects to a hose end, allowing you to apply its environmentally friendly spray to your entire lawn in minutes.

 

Buying Guide

Increasing the overall health and longevity of your lawn is simple and accessible thanks to the variety of lawn aerators sold online. However, choosing the best aerator for your yard comes down to several factors, including grass and soil type, yard size, and desired aeration method. Here’s what to think about before you make a final purchasing decision: 

• Aerator type: Below are summaries of five types of aerators.
  • Push aerators: Push aerators can be manual or powered by electricity or gas. Their spikes create holes in your soil when the rotating piece they’re on is pushed across your lawn.

• • Handheld aerators: Good for small lawns, these tools take the shape and size of a garden shovel or hoe. They come with a wide foot platform that allows the homeowner to use their body weight to force the tines or spikes deep into the soil. 

• • Tow-behind aerators: Those with a large yard and a riding lawn mower will find using a tow-behind aerator relatively effortless. Connect the lawn aerator to the tow hitch to quickly cover ground. 

• • Aerator shoes: If you have a pedometer and need to reach a certain step count, aerator shoes are for you. These lawn aerators strap onto your shoes, using your body weight and force to dig into the soil. However, they’re only effective for mildly compacted soil. 

• • Liquid aerators: These potent solutions naturally condition soil to increase water uptake and drainage without requiring heavy manual labor, expensive machines, or sharp spikes. 

• Material and durability: The metal spikes in lawn aerators are inherently strong and durable. However, they’ll lose their sharpness over time. Shoe aerators will also bend after several uses. If you’re looking for the longest-lasting option, find one made of stainless, galvanized, powder-coated, or heat-treated steel.

• Yard size: If you have a large yard with a lot of grass, using a manual push aerator, handheld aerator, or shoe aerator will take a lot of time and effort. A pull-behind model is a better option if you have a riding lawn mower. If not, consider a liquid aerator. 

 

 

The Benefits of Aerating Your Lawn

Are you wondering why you should aerate your lawn? There are several benefits associated with regular lawn aeration. 

• Circulation of nutrients, air, and water: Aeration’s primary benefit is ensuring that nutrients, air, and water reach the deeper layers of your soil. The remaining advantages stem from this first one.

• Thatch elimination: Thatch is a collection of lawn clippings, weeds, stems, and other organic materials that sits between the grass and soil. A thick layer of thatch can be an inviting environment for disease-carrying insects. By aerating your lawn, you’ll reduce or eliminate this layer.

• Puddle reduction: Poorly irrigated lawns can form puddles, which are attractive to mosquitoes and other insects. Aerated grass absorbs water to ensure that there’s at least one less place for bugs to congregate in your yard.

• Improved soil conditions: Aerating your lawn increases the health of the soil underneath your grass. This ensures healthy grass growth.

• Heat and drought resistance: Aeration helps grass thrive using less water. With compacted soil, it takes more watering to get the lower layers hydrated. However, with aeration holes, this water reaches these layers faster and easier. 

• Recovery from pet urination: If your pets tend to relieve themselves in the same few grass patches, you might see discoloration or premature death. Aeration can help revive this turf by making sure that more nutrients reach the soil below the grass. 

How To Aerate Your Lawn

These step-by-step instructions will help you successfully aerate your lawn. 

• Step 1: Prepare the grass. Before you get started, mow your lawn as short as possible, and kill any remaining weeds. Water your lawn the day before you plan to aerate, or wait one day after a rain shower before getting started. 

• Step 2: Mark any obstacles. Mark irrigation heads or invisible fences to remind yourself to avoid them while you’re aerating.

• Step 3: Aerate your lawn. This is the most laborious part of the aeration process. Follow the instructions that come with your machine or tool to ensure proper use.
• Step 4: Break up remaining soil plugs. While this isn’t a necessary step, your lawn can look unsightly if you have cylinders of soil lying around. Allow the plugs to dry for a few days before breaking them with a lawn mower, a dethatcher, or the back of a rake. It’s worth noting that you can avoid this step by using a spike aerator rather than a core or plug aerator. 
• Step 5: Resume your regular lawn care. Basic lawn care practices, such as proper fertilizing, mowing, edging, and watering, will ensure that your lawn thrives after all of the hard work you put into aerating it. 

 

 

 

FAQs

• What’s the difference between a spike aerator and a core aerator? 

Spike aerators leave small holes where the force of their spikes have caused soil around them to compact. On the other hand, core aerators remove entire chunks of soil, leaving cylinder-shaped plugs on top of the grass. Most manual tools are considered spike aerators because they don’t have powerful mechanisms that can remove large chunks of soil. Though spike aerators aren’t quite as effective as core aerators, they’re easier and less time-consuming to use and more affordable.

• Should I aerate my lawn before seeding? 

Yes. Aeration allows the seeds to penetrate the soil better, increasing the likelihood of germination. 

• What are the most common lawn aeration mistakes that I should avoid? 

Most homeowners don’t use enough force, limiting how deep the spikes penetrate. With a manual aerator, use your body weight to push the spikes into the ground. With a pull-behind aerator, weigh it down with dead weights or heavy bricks. Another common mistake is aerating the lawn when it’s too wet or too dry. Dry soil is harder to get into, while wet soil allows mud to seep into the holes. Water your lawn the day before you plan on aerating, ensuring that water reaches six inches deep.

• How often should I aerate my lawn? 

Most homeowners aerate their lawn once a year in the fall or spring. In many cases, it doesn’t hurt to aerate twice a year. 

• What insects cause the most damage to lawns?

A variety of pests, including chinch bugs, sod webworms, cutworms, white grubs, armyworms, and billbugs, can cause serious damage to your lawn. These insects thrive in excess thatch, which could build up if you don’t aerate your lawn at regular intervals.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Nature’s Hangout Window Bird Feeder

Length: 11.8 inches | Width: 4 inches | Height: 5.12 inches

What We Like: Whether you are a bird aficionado or live somewhere with a lot of winged visitors, this window bird feeder uses a deep seed tray to keep your feeder fully stocked for all of your guests. With a divider, you can fill your feeder with two varieties of seeds to attract multiple types of birds. Additionally, because the seed tray is removable, you can access it easily for cleaning and filling.

Nature Anywhere Window Bird Feeder

Length: 9.84 inches | Width: 4.33 inches | Height: 9.84 inches

What We Like: Those searching for a window bird feeder to complement exterior and interior decor will find this house-shaped bird feeder to be a great fit. While it’s big enough to attract larger birds, such as jays and cardinals, it’s also light enough to safely and securely fit on your window. This feeder is water-resistant and squirrelproof, and it offers an unobstructed view of your visitors.

Homebird Window Bird Feeder

Length: 11.81 inches | Width: 3.94 inches | Height: 7.09 inches

What We Like: Designed by birdwatchers, this window bird feeder uses reinforced suction cups to ensure a tight grip to your window that won’t budge from inclement weather or bird activity. Its backless design provides a clear view regardless of how high or low you mount it. Made using a high-density perspex frame, this feeder is intended for frequent use.

Wild Birds of Joy Window Bird Feeder

Length: 6 inches | Width: 2.38 inches | Height: 5.75 inches

What We Like: For a simple and hassle-free way to get started with your at-home birdwatching adventures, this feeder uses only two suction cups to secure to your window. Its small size is suitable if you want to attract only one or two small birds at a time to view each bird in careful detail. Plus, this bird feeder can fit on the smallest of windows.

Nature’s Envoy Window Bird Feeder

Length: 11.8 inches | Width: 4 inches | Height: 5.2 inches

What We Like: Clever features, including the rubber perch and silicone bumpers, make this window bird feeder a solid option for those who want maximum visitors and minimal disturbances. The seed tray also contains 60 small holes that drain water to prevent mold and mildew growth without letting seeds through.

 

Buying Guide

All window feeders are designed to sit on or near your window to attract birds. However, there are a few notable differences between models. Keep these purchasing factors in mind when you’re shopping around for a window bird feeder as both a decorative addition and natural form of pest control: 

• Ease of access: A bird feeder should be easy to access without the need to detach it from the window. Many window bird feeders feature a removable seed tray that can be cleaned and refilled once it’s empty without unfastening the entire unit.

• Suction cup strength: Most window bird feeders use suction cups to attach to your window, making for easy setup. However, suction cups have weight limitations. The larger your feeder, the more suction cups it should use. The cups should also sit flush with and press tightly against your window for maximum sturdiness. 
• Weatherproofing: Though window bird feeders are slightly more shielded than standard feeders that are out in the open, they still need to be able to withstand the elements. That’s why many are made from acrylic or another hard plastic.
• Appeal for birds: The easier your window bird feeder is to access for birds, the more likely you are to catch them eating or taking a rest. A sizable perch to land on and a large reservoir of seeds to eat from will encourage birds to spend more time and visit more frequently. 

 

 

Using Window Bird Feeders as a Natural Form of Insect Control

Pest infestations generally leave homeowners with two options: call a professional to take care of the issue or use consumer products to tackle the problem yourself. The latter opens up a world of products targeted toward different pests.

We recommend adding a window bird feeder to your outdoor living space if you want a natural way to manage pests. Here’s more information about how attracting birds can serve as a means of pest control: 

• Baltimore orioles can consume 17 hairy caterpillars in one minute. 
• Cuckoos are known to eat up to 217 webworms in one sitting. 
• A pair of hungry yellowthroats will target and eliminate thousands of plant lice in a garden.
• A tiny swallow will eat up to 1,000 leafhoppers in a single day. 
• House wrens are able to feed up to 500 insects to their young in the course of an afternoon. 

Other well-known bug eaters to attract using your window bird feeder include bluebirds, cardinals, chickadees, grosbeaks, and nuthatches. 

In short, encouraging birds to routinely visit the outside of your home allows them to scan the area and eat small pests. Going this route could eliminate the need for insect traps, sprays, or other conventional means of pest management.

 

 

FAQs

• Are window bird feeders safe for birds? 

Yes, window bird feeders are safe for birds, especially those that utilize suction cups to sit flush against the surface of your window. This is because, when they go to leave, birds can’t build up enough momentum to hurt themselves by accidentally flying into your window. Instead, they’re prompted to leave by flying in the other direction. Bird feeders situated near, but not on, a window are proven to be more dangerous to birds.

• Why aren’t birds visiting my feeder? 

If you have just installed your window bird feeder and aren’t noticing any traffic, give it some time. Depending on the location and time of year, birds in your area may be experiencing an overabundance of natural foods. If there’s more than enough for birds to eat, they’re not as likely to seek out new bird feeders.

• Will birds eat large pests, such as rodents, in my backyard?

Many bird species you might find in a residential area feed on smaller insects. However, occasionally, you might see larger species, such as falcons or hawks, that could target and kill an unsuspecting rodent outside of your home.

• How do I encourage birds to return to my feeder?                                                                                                     

Maintaining an inviting space for birds to rest and refuel will motivate them to return. This means making sure that the seed tray is full and that the seed is dry, fresh, and neatly contained.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

AeroGarden Indoor Garden 

 

What We Like: The control panel reminds you when you need to feed or water your plants. The third button allows you to manually turn the lights on and off, though the planter does this for you automatically as well. The kit comes with six ready-to-plant pods that fit into their own section. A three-ounce bottle of the manufacturer’s proprietary growth enhancer is also included. 

Planters’ Choice Indoor Herb Starter Kit

 

What We Like: Pot it, plant it, feed it, mark it, and ace it — this indoor herb garden kit makes it fun and easy to grow herbs. It comes with a well-rounded variety of herb seeds, including dill, basil, oregano, cilantro, parsley, chives, rosemary, thyme, and sage, as well as reusable plots to plant them in and printed markers to label them with. The pots feature built-in drainage holes to prevent overwatering.

Click and Grow Indoor Herb Garden

 

What We Like: The self-watering system on this unit waters your herbs the right amount for up to one month. If you want to switch your herbs for vegetables, fruits, or other plants, you can choose from the manufacturer’s list of over 50 pods.

GARDEN REPUBLIC Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit

 

What We Like: The non-GMO seeds in this kit come from the United States to promote domestic gardening and farming. The burlap bags they’re planted in have a rustic look and fit on a windowsill. Using the included accessories, you’ll be able to see these herbs to completion without a trip to your local nursery. 

Home Grown Culinary Herb Seed Vault

 

What We Like: This robust seed kit includes both popular and less common culinary herbs, such as arugula, oregano, parsley, and peppermint. The only accessories bundled with the seeds are plant markers, which you can write on or add a label to.

 

Buying Guide

Whether you want a stress-free growing experience, don’t have space for an outdoor garden, or need a gift for the budding plant enthusiast in your life, indoor herb gardens are a versatile solution. However, these plant kits range from self-watering units to simple seed packets. Use the information in our buying guide below to help direct your purchase and find the best indoor herb garden for your needs. 

• Herb type: Different types of herbs require different amounts of light, water, food, and soil. Most herb garden kits come with multiple types of herbs with similar needs. This gives you more plant variety while still offering a stress-free growing experience. 

• Planter type: Most kits come with planters. A basic, affordable kit has individual pots for each type of herb. However, if you want to up your gardening game, you can also find electronic units. These units hold multiple seed-filled pods at a time. They typically have other useful features, such as a self-watering system.

• Accessories: More robust indoor herb garden kits come with more than just herb seeds and planters. Other common accessories include markers for labeling the plants, shears for tending to the plants, and soil discs for feeding the plants.

• Electronic unit features: Electronic units do more than just hold your seeds. Some common features include:

• Self-watering system: If you’re a chronic overwaterer, consider a unit with a self-watering system. You fill the reservoir with enough water for a few weeks or months, and the unit releases the proper amount of water for you.

• Automatic light: Units with self-watering systems typically also have timed lights. These not only help you determine how much light your plants need, but they also keep you from having to move your herbs in and out of the sun. 

• Food and water reminder: Let’s say that you prefer to have control over watering and feeding your plants. Some herb kits let you do this, holding your hand throughout the growing process by notifying you when your plants need more water or food. 

• Educational materials: Since growing indoor herbs is often simple, many people start their gardening journey with one of these kits. If you have limited gardening knowledge and don’t want to scour the internet for information, choose a kit with an instructions manual. 

• Gift packaging: Want to give an indoor herb garden kit as a gift to a friend or family member? Certain kits come packaged in a decorative wooden box rather than a traditional cardboard box. 

 

The Benefits of Growing Herbs

It’s well-known that plants improve your health by naturally filtering the air around you. Indoor plants also serve as decoration. An indoor herb garden offers these benefits with the added practicality of being edible. From sustainability to cost-effectiveness, here are some other benefits of growing an indoor herb garden: 

• Sustainability: We should all make efforts to become more self-sufficient. Though growing your own herbs at home seems like a small contribution, it’s a great place to start. After successfully growing small plants, you can expand to fruits and vegetables if you have the space.

• Awareness: Rather than being at the mercy of your neighborhood grocery store’s produce section, growing and cultivating your own herbs at home means that you know exactly what’s in them and how they’re grown. You set the parameters, having the freedom to select high-quality organic and non-GMO herbs. 

• Freshness: Having an indoor garden is convenient because you can pull herbs from it to add to your recipes. Because of their freshness, these herbs provide more flavor compared to dried, store-bought herbs and seasonings. 

• Cost-effectiveness: Once you have an established indoor herb garden and know what you’re doing, buying new seed packets is not only easy, but also cost-effective. A seed packet often contains hundreds of seeds, and the price of the entire packet is usually a fraction of the cost of pre-grown herbs. 

• Self-satisfaction: On a personal level, cooking a meal is infinitely more gratifying than going out to eat and having someone else make your food. An indoor herb garden takes this to the next level. There’s an immense sense of pride and satisfaction that comes with using ingredients that you grew yourself. 
• Pleasant aromas: The presence of an herb garden in your kitchen or living room will naturally purify and freshen the air around you. This partially eliminates the need to diffuse essential oils or spray artificial fragrances around your home to mask unpleasant odors. 

 

 

FAQs

• How long does it take for my herb seeds to germinate? 

It depends on the quality of the seed and the type of herb. It can take anywhere from a few days to a month for your seeds to germinate and start to grow.

• Where should I place my indoor herb garden? 

Most people place their indoor herb garden in the kitchen on a countertop, windowsill, or island. If you have a sunroom, this is another good option. Know that soil and water may lead to mess, so place your herbs on a surface that’s easy to clean.

• How do I know when the plants in my indoor herb garden need to be repotted?

Look for overgrown or protruding roots from the bottom of the pot. Another indicator is when the plant has become limp or stopped growing. 

• Which herbs grow best indoors? 

The indoor herb garden kit you choose likely contains the seeds of herbs that are selected for their resilience and ease of growing. However, here’s a list of fast-growing indoor herbs to look for:

• Sage
• Fennel
• Dill
• Chives
• Coriander
• Mint
• Chervil
• Oregano
• Cilantro
• Basil

• Are there any precautions I should take with my indoor herb garden? 

To keep pets and small children safe — as well as your precious herbs — place your kit on an elevated surface that they can’t access. Additionally, exercise caution if your herb garden has built-in lights. Make sure that it’s plugged into an outlet away from your kitchen sink or other water source. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Field Logic Archery Target

 

What We Like: With the size of a real 200-pound deer without all the weight, this detailed foam target is 56 inches tall at the antlers and 34 inches tall at the shoulders. It’s designed to be just soft enough to stop both broadhead and field-point arrows without burying them deep into the foam.

Procener Bow and Arrow Set

 

What We Like: The bow’s size and weight make it ideal for use by teenagers. It comes disassembled in a box, but its pieces are inserted together for easy installation. Additionally, the included targets have different-colored rings to help you discern how close or far you are from the bullseye.

Morrell Targets Archery Targets

 

What We Like: This target can be placed on the ground or hung by the two built-in metal grommets. Both sides can be used for target practice. Plus, it’s sold in single packs or multipacks to fit your exact archery needs. 

Field Logic Archery Target

 

What We Like: This target uses friction instead of force to stop arrows. Its PolyFusion layered core allows you to remove arrows with one hand, which saves your strength for more practice rounds. With recessed carrying handles, you can also take it with you without dragging it or lifting it from the bottom. 

KAINOKAI Archery Target

 

What We Like: The core material of this target is made from forage, making it more natural and sustainable than synthetic foams, rubbers, and plastics. Because it’s handmade, each target looks slightly different, giving you a one-of-a-kind model to practice on.

 

Buying Guide

From beginners to seasoned hunters, consider the following factors before deciding which target to purchase and practice on. 

• Type: Below are explanations of the four primary types of archery targets that you’ll come across. 

• Block: As the name suggests, block targets take the shape of a cube with six sides for the archer to shoot at. Block targets are made from multiple layers of strong foam that can stop both field-point and broadhead arrows. However, removing the arrows can be cumbersome. 

• 3D: 3D practice targets take the shape of game animals, such as deer, elk, and turkey, that archers may encounter while they’re hunting. These targets also have various anatomical markings to help bow hunters aim for certain vital organs.

• Bag: Bag targets sit on the ground, though they sometimes feature metal grommets for hanging. Although heavy, they can be carried with a built-in handle.

• Paper: These thin targets are designed for one-time use, providing the archer with a fresh bullseye every time. Paper targets can only be used when they’re pinned to a block, 3D, or bag target, as arrows go right through them. 

• Size: An archery target’s size primarily affects how difficult it is to hit. Small, close-range targets are generally better for beginner archers. Conversely, larger targets are designed for intermediate or expert archers who have better aim. 

• Durability: If you’re practicing outside as opposed to in an indoor range or under a covered area, we recommend choosing a block or 3D model over a conventional bag target. Bag targets are known to absorb moisture, which can negatively affect their longevity. 

• Portability: If you’re planning on creating a walking course or moving your targets from one location to another, choose a lightweight bag or block target with a built-in carrying handle to avoid muscular strain. Targets with foam cores are usually the lightest and most portable options. 

 

Bow and Arrow Tips

Split into safety and accuracy categories, here are a few tips to help you properly use your bow and arrow.

 

Safety Tips

• Never point your bow and arrow at something you don’t intend to shoot. 
• Only release an arrow when your path is clear.
• Wear an arm guard to prevent damage to your skin. Additional finger protection is recommended but not necessary. 
• Never shoot an arrow straight into the air. 
• Never shoot an arrow over a ridge, fence, or other place where you can’t see a direct path to the target. 
• Avoid dry-firing a bow whenever possible. This refers to pulling the bowstring back and releasing it without an arrow. Dry-firing could result in injury to the archer or damage to the bow. 
• Don’t use a bow, arrow, or other piece of archery equipment that appears to be damaged. 

 

Accuracy and Control Tips

• • Relax your bow grip hand. Many beginner archers are tense, gripping the frame of the bow too tightly.
  • Use the proper stance. Face the target at a 45-degree angle with your feet parallel and spread one or two feet apart. Your toes should point toward the target.

• Steady your breathing. It’s natural to be excited when you come across a large animal, but relaxed, controlled breathing keeps you grounded when it’s time to take a shot. Inhale, exhale, and immediately shoot your arrow for the best results. 

• Stand from the correct distance. Stand as far away from the target as you’re currently capable of shooting from accurately. As you improve, you can progressively move farther away.

 

 

FAQs

• Why would I want a paper target if I have to have another type behind it? 

A paper target can be removed and replaced with a new one, providing you with a fresh bullseye. Additionally, you can remove the paper target to better see where your shots are clustered or to display an exceptional cluster. 

• What’s the difference between field-point arrows and broadhead arrows? 

Field-point arrows are what most people typically picture when they think about arrows. They’re narrow and thin and intended for target practice. Their flight path is also true, meaning they go where you aim. Broadhead arrows have wide, flat blades that kill game animals. While primarily meant for hunting, you can practice with them to get a feel for how they shoot. Make sure not to use field-point arrows to hunt animals because they’re likely to pass through them, wounding rather than killing them. 

• Is it possible to make my own archery target? 

Experienced archers like to make their own targets. We strongly advise against making your own targets if you’re inexperienced. Safety is the highest priority when it comes to shooting a bow and arrow, so you need to be sure that your target is strong enough to absorb and hold hundreds to thousands of arrows over a long period of time.

• Can I shoot at a foam block target from an angle? 

Yes. Although shooting at a foam block target is easier when you’re facing one of its sides directly, you can also shoot from an angle.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Midea Mini Freezer

 

What We Like: Storing a lot of food in your deep freezer shouldn’t come at the expense of having functional living space in your home or garage. That’s why this deep freezer uses a clever top-opening design, allowing you to access its contents from above without swinging a door to the side. The temperature control knob and wire storage basket promise added convenience and ease of access. 

Koolatron Mini Freezer

 

What We Like: When extra space and interior customization are a priority for food storage, this roomy but compact deep freezer is a promising option. The large, removable wire basket keeps small and commonly used items close to the top. With quiet operation, you can place this freezer inside of your home without worrying about it bothering anyone. 

WATOOR Mini Freezer

 

What We Like: In addition to displaying the temperature, the front door can be written or drawn on, making it perfect for leaving notes to family members or writing grocery lists. Much like a dry-erase board, the glass panel wipes clean when you want to write something new. The freezer is also easy to clean with two removable wire shelves and a removable door seal. 

Whynter Mini Freezer

 

What We Like: The internal dial allows you to choose from one of six temperature settings. Regardless of the temperature you choose, the freezer’s cooling components make less than 42 decibels of noise, which is quieter than the average conversation. The reversible door is another useful feature that allows for a left or right swing depending on what works best in your space. 

Frigidaire Upright Freezer

 

What We Like: With three wire shelves, you can organize your food items how you like. An interior LED light helps you find the food when it comes time to defrost it, and a reversible door and adjustable legs give you additional versatility in terms of where it can fit. 

 

Buying Guide

Many homeowners overload their main freezer, causing premature wear and uneven cooling. A deep freezer can be the solution you need to better organize your frozen items. To find the ideal model for your home, consider the below factors.

• Size and capacity: Most deep freezers measure between two to four feet wide and three to six feet long with a capacity between one cubic foot and 20 cubic feet. These measurements will determine where you can place the freezer and what food it can store.

• Door or lid design: Deep freezers either use a side-opening door or a top-opening lid. While the door or lid design you choose mostly comes down to preference, it can also depend on the layout of your space. If your freezer will be surrounded by other items to the left and right, a lid may be better because it won’t hit anything. On the other hand, if you have storage shelves above your freezer, you may not be able to lift a lid. One additional benefit of a side-opening door is that it’s typically reversible, so you can install it on either side.

• Temperature range: A quality deep freezer should be able to maintain stable temperatures ranging from -5 to -15 or -20 degrees Fahrenheit. For temperature control, deep freezers have a manual dial or a digital display. 

• Storage space: Built-in shelving is common in many deep freezers. Some models, especially mini freezers, have removable shelves, allowing you to adjust the space between each level according to the items you’re storing.

• Power consumption: Keep an eye out for the Energy Star label. This label indicates that the deep freezer in question operates at least 10% more efficiently than the federal minimum standard. On average, deep freezers with this energy-efficiency rating use 395 kilowatt-hours of electricity, costing less than $50 per year to operate. 

• Defrosting: Some deep freezers have a manual defrost option, allowing you to choose when you want to warm your freezer to get rid of frost buildup or clean the shelving. Frost-free deep freezers are designed to automatically run a defrost cycle about once a day. During this cycle, the freezer will increase in temperature about two degrees, which is enough to get rid of frost but not so much that it affects your food. 

• Additional features: Deep freezers, mini freezers, and chest freezers don’t offer as many features as modern full-size refrigerators, but bells and whistles, such as digital temperature displays and dry-erase doors, are available. 

 

Deep Freezer Organization Tips

A properly organized freezer maximizes storage space and operates more efficiently. Regardless of the deep freezer you choose, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:

• Create a list that outlines what’s in your freezer. Before you go to open the lid, reference the inventory, as this limits how much time you spend looking for something that’s not there. Make sure to update your deep freezer inventory when items are added or removed. 
• Use a label maker to mark items. This will make it quick and easy to locate what you’re looking for, minimizing the amount of cold air that escapes. If you don’t have a label maker, use painter’s tape and permanent marker. 
• If your deep freezer is large but lacks shelving, purchase storage bins to organize your items into groups. For example, your meat can go in one, and your vegetables can go in another. 
• Look through your deep freezer once a month, and throw out or donate anything that you no longer want.

 

What To Keep in Your Deep Freezer

Ultimately, what you store inside of your deep freezer is up to you. However, here’s a list of items that freeze well for long periods of time: 

• Ice cream
• Game meat 
• Broth
• Bread
• Cheese
• Ready-to-cook meals
• Seafood
• Bacon
• Herbs
• Pre-cooked grains
• Cooking fat
• Juice
• Produce

 

 

FAQs

• Are there differences between deep freezers, chest freezers, and mini freezers? 

While these three terms are often used interchangeably, there are a few notable differences. Namely, the term “deep” is used to describe a freezer that reaches extremely cold temperatures and stores food items for long periods of time. Chest freezers can be a type of deep freezer. Mini freezers can also be used as deep freezers as long as they’re able to maintain temperatures well below zero degrees Fahrenheit. 

• Will my deep freezer work better if it’s not tightly packed? 

Yes. However, an empty deep freezer doesn’t operate efficiently either, circulating air without items to absorb it. For the most efficient energy consumption and optimal performance, we recommend having a medium amount of items in your deep freezer — enough to help regulate internal airflow but not overpacked to the point of stressing its components. 

• Why does frost build up on freezers? 

In most cases, frost buildup is caused by moisture from the food contents. As the contents chill and begin to freeze, this moisture attaches to the internal components of the freezer. Frequent opening and closing of the freezer also tends to exacerbate frost buildup.

• Can a mini fridge work as a deep freezer? 

Though mini fridges are a convenient way to store extra beverages or small food items, their freezer section can’t maintain the sub-zero temperatures that many frozen foods need. This section is also so small that it’s unable to accommodate the larger items you’d likely want to freeze for weeks or months at a time. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Rubbermaid Storage Totes

 

What We Like: Many customers require no-frills storage reliability, and that’s what these totes offer. They’re not the most stylish containers out of the bunch, but they’re practical, offering stackability. This three-gallon size can handle loads up to 26 pounds each. For heavy-duty, long-term storage, consider the manufacturer’s larger sizes. 

CX Storage Containers

 

What We Like: Warding away the elements, this six-pack of storage totes uses waterproof, contractor-grade reinforced plastic to secure your belongings for the long haul. They have a lid that locks onto the body for security. The lid’s textured surface grips onto the body of the next bin you store on top of it.

Amazon Basics Storage Cubes

 

What We Like: Forming sturdy cube-shaped containers when you’re ready to use them and folding flat when you need the extra space, these square-shaped bins are a versatile storage solution. They fit easily on a bookshelf or storage cube organizer. Plus, the variety of color options allows you to match the bins with your furniture, wall decor, and other items.

IRIS USA Storage Bins

 

What We Like: Finding items is easy with these transparent containers. The side latches double as handles to help you safely pull the bins off an elevated surface. Whether you’re moving or storing seldom-used items, these transparent bins can do it all. 

WISELIFE Storage Bags

 

What We Like: If you’re having trouble finding seasonal items, organization can help. These fabric totes provide you with dedicated storage space for seasonal clothing and bedding. The sturdy zipper ensures that nothing falls out, and the 100-liter size fits in most closets.

 

Buying Guide

Concerned about overrunning your home with loose items? Consider storage bins to organize your space. From durable composite containers to soft fabric totes, we’re here to help with insights into what to look for.

• Size and weight: As you’re considering the size and weight of your bins, think about what you need to store in them and where you want to keep them. For instance, if you’re storing seldom-used items in the attic, heavy bins are fine because they rarely need to be moved. Conversely, frequently used belongings should be easy to locate and move around the house, so small, lightweight bins make more sense.

• Open or closed: Most storage totes come with lids, with some of the lids creating an airtight seal to keep out dust and moisture. However, items you use on a daily basis store better in an open container. For example, if you’re organizing your child’s playroom with bins, opt for open ones so that they can access their toys easily the next time they want to play.

• Material and durability: Rubber, composite, fabric, and plastic are common materials used to build totes because of their versatility and durability. However, some of these materials are more durable than others, with composite being the strongest option and fabric being the weakest.

• Carrying handle: You’ll be hard-pressed to find a storage tote without some type of carrying handle. Fabric loop handles are comfortable, but they tear easier than plastic totes with handles built into their lids.

• Stackability: Lidless storage totes don’t stack, but closed storage containers do. You should be able to stack several bins on top of each other without fear of them falling. The thicker and heavier the material, the more reliably your bins will stack. 

• Transparency: Seeing what’s inside your storage containers can save you time by helping you identify which one has the item you need without unstacking and looking in all of them. However, transparency comes at a price because it shows the clutter in your bins. If you want the best of both worlds, you can get opaque containers and label them with a label maker or a permanent marker and tape.

 

Household Organization Tips

No one enjoys a cluttered household scattered with toys, clothes, utensils, tools, and other miscellaneous items. Here are several ways you can optimize storage to keep an organized home: 

• Create an inventory for your storage room or closet. If you have a singular, dedicated space for most of your stored items, create a working document that outlines everything in it. Make sure to update the inventory if you remove something.

• Use labels. Whether you’re using clear or opaque containers to hold your items, having large-print labels makes it easy to identify what’s in each bin. This saves you time and hassle by allowing you to choose the right bin every time you need to access something. 

• Install shelving. These shelves can be used to hold your storage totes. Utilizing otherwise empty wall space will help free up room on your floor and make your home feel less cluttered. 

• Store indoor-use items indoors and outdoor-use items in a garage or shed. Storing your belongings close to where they’re used will save you time when you go to access them.

 

 

FAQs

• Is there anything that I shouldn’t keep in a storage tote? 

Though they can be placed in totes, perishable and fragile items should be stored with caution. Bins for perishable items need airtight lids to prevent spoilage, and fragile items should be surrounded by newspaper, bubble wrap, or another filler to prevent breakage. 

• How do I keep bugs out of my storage totes? 

Basements make for great storage spaces, but spiders, cockroaches, centipedes, and other insects tend to roam these parts. If you’re concerned about bugs breaching your totes, choose a model with an airtight lid. Stacking containers on an elevated surface, such as a shelf, will also help distance your items from crawling bugs on the floor. 

• Are insulated totes available for cold-weather storage? 

Insulated totes exist, but because many storage containers are designed for indoor use, it’s more common to come across non-insulated ones. If you’re looking for containers to place in your garage during the chillier months of the year, you can always use a standard indoor storage tote and line the inside with a separate insulating material. 

• Can I use storage totes to organize food in my pantry? 

Yes. Open ones work better on the lower shelves where you keep frequently used items, such as snacks. Closed ones can be used on the higher shelves where you keep disposable paperware or other infrequently needed items.

• How do I keep my pets or children from tampering with my storage totes? 

We recommend using storage totes with airtight lids to prevent curious pets or children from accessing the contents within. Placing the storage totes in a locked room or on a high shelf is another solution. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Lighting EVER Camping Lantern

 

What We Like: Not only does this lantern last up to 12 hours on its brightest light setting, but it also has an IPX4 waterproof rating to withstand any weather conditions you come across while you’re camping. In addition to full brightness, it offers daylight white, warm white, and flashing modes.

CT CAPETRONIX Camping Lanterns

 

What We Like: It takes about two hours to fully charge this lantern-power bank hybrid, and its battery lasts between three and 10 hours depending on the brightness level or flashing mode it’s set to. It gives you a soft, anti-glare light that’s filtered using a frosted shell to keep it from being too bright or harsh.

Vont Camping Lanterns

 

What We Like: These camping lanterns have four height options from completely collapsed to fully opened. This means you can not only control how tall the lanterns are but also how much light is emitted from their 30 LEDs. The set is also made using military-grade materials, so they’ll last even if they’re dropped or knocked over. 

Goal Zero Lantern

 

What We Like: Weighing 3.2 ounces, collapsing flat, and featuring two hanging hooks, this camping lantern is easy to transport from place to place. Though it only puts out 60 lumens of light, it comes with six color options to give you subtle but fun lighting. The manufacturer also advertises a runtime of 25 hours on its lowest light setting. 

Coleman LED Lantern

 

What We Like: While most lanterns require you to press a single button to cycle through their lighting options, this model has an easy-to-turn dial. It also comes with a generously large handle for easy carrying or hanging. The LED light is designed to last a lifetime, but the D batteries will need to be replaced after 30–70 hours of use.

 

Buying Guide

Contrary to the name, you don’t have to spend the night under the stars in a tent to use a camping lantern. From emergency preparedness to outdoor lighting, here’s what to consider to find the best-fitting lantern for your needs. 

• Power source: The majority of camping lanterns use rechargeable or disposable batteries as their power source. Gas-powered lanterns are less common than they used to be, though they’re still available. They work better in sub-freezing temperatures that tend to zap the battery of electric lanterns, but they present a fire hazard. Solar-powered lanterns are another option. These lanterns have a small solar panel that absorbs sunlight and converts it into electricity. Though convenient and environmentally friendly, they can take a long time to charge and only last a few hours before needing to be recharged.

• Battery life: Many electric lanterns provide between five and 10 hours of light on their highest setting and 10–15 hours of light on their lowest setting. For long trips spent in remote wilderness, solar-powered lanterns are a better choice because you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet to recharge the battery or having extra disposable batteries on hand. 

• Brightness: The brightness or light output for a camping lantern is measured in lumens. Most lanterns produce 100–400 lumens of light, but some offer over 1,000 lumens to illuminate an entire campsite. The brighter the light, the faster the battery or fuel supply gets used up. Some lanterns also offer multiple brightness settings to extend the life of your light and give you a warmer glow.

• Weight and portability: Many camping lanterns are travel-friendly, being compact and weighing less than a pound. They typically also feature oversized handles, making them easier and more comfortable to carry. 

• Ease of use: Most electric camping lanterns beat out gas-powered lanterns when it comes to ease of use. Simply pressing a button, flipping a switch, or turning a dial is easy, even in the dark, leaving little room for user error.
• Additional features: Some camping lanterns function as multitools, providing you with more than just light. Common additional functions include acting as a power bank, compass, or emergency signal.

 

Camping Tips 

To ensure a safe and successful outing, here are some camping safety tips to keep in mind before you hit the road with your friends and family. 

• • Pack the 10 essentials. Whether you’re going on a quick overnight trip or a multi-day backpacking excursion, packing the essentials will ensure that you’re comfortable and prepared for emergencies. The 10 essentials include:
    • Navigation device
    • Lighting source
    • Sun protection
    • First aid kit 
    • Pocket knife
    • Fire source
    • Shelter source
    • Extra food beyond the minimum expectation
    • Extra water beyond the minimum expectation
    • Extra clothes beyond the minimum expectation
  • Know your surroundings. Look for landmarks at the campsite and on the hiking trail. This helps you navigate your way back to your car.
  • Tell someone where you’re headed, who you’re with, and how long you intend to stay. Providing a brief overview of your trip itinerary will help your loved ones know if something is wrong. If you’re not back when you’re supposed to be, they can call for help. 
  • Use a headlamp in conjunction with a camping lantern. While camping lanterns provide ambient light at your campsite, headlamps give you direct light when you walk away from the main group. 
  • Avoid wild animals. To keep wild animals at bay, make sure to seal all food in airtight containers, and place the containers out of reach. If you spot an animal, watch carefully from a safe distance. 
  • Mark any ropes, tie-downs, or other tripping hazards with a light or reflective tape. Even with a light source, it’s easy to trip on these protruding hazards. 
• Leave no trace. This is more of an environmental tip rather than a safety tip, but make sure to leave the trail and campsite as you found it. Get rid of trash and human waste.

 

 

FAQs

• Will a camping lantern illuminate an entire campsite or backyard? 

Powerful lanterns that deliver up to 1,000 lumens of brightness can provide ample brightness for a relatively large area. However, most camping lanterns hover around 100–400 lumens, so you may want multiple lanterns if a soft glow is too dim. 

• How do I charge the battery in my rechargeable lantern? 

If you can’t access electricity, such as a car charger, while you’re camping, use a portable power bank. Power banks charge devices on the go using their multiple sockets and ports.

• Are there small camping lanterns for backpackers? 

Yes. Some camping lanterns use a space-saving collapsible design to maximize storage space in your backpack. Additionally, you can always clip a traditional, slightly bulkier camping lantern to the outside of your pack by looping a locking carabiner clip through the handle.

• How long can I expect my camping lantern to last? 

A quality camping lantern is designed to last years. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, there’s no reason why it should break with the exception of accidents.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Cammenga Handheld Compass

 

What We Like: If your hiking adventure turns into a downpour, this military-grade compass can get you back home. It even works in the dark with the tritium spots on the dial that softly glow in low-light settings for up to 12 years. It’s versatile enough for hiking, camping, backpacking, hunting, youth scouting, boating, and more. 

Sun Company Compass

 

What We Like: If all you need is a quick glance at your compass to keep moving, we recommend this simple but practical ball compass. For added versatility, it comes with a split ring, so you can attach it to a zipper to use it as a zipper pull or attach it to a keyring to act as a keychain. 

SUUNTO Hiking Compass

 

What We Like: This compass is pre-balanced for the Northern Hemisphere, ready to triangulate your position on a physical map with ease. If you’re hiking and navigating in the dark, this compass still serves you, as the metric and imperial scale markings glow in the dark. If you need repeated access but don’t have a table to place the compass on, use the included snap-lock lanyard. 

Coghlan’s Whistle Compass

 

What We Like: Compasses are for more than just navigating in real-world situations — they also make great educational tools to teach young learners the value of orienteering. While a full-size, robust compass may intimidate and confuse first-time users, this simple whistle-compass hybrid will encourage learning. It also includes a plastic clip so that kids can attach it to their backpack, belt loop, or water bottle for easy portability. 

Alritz Hiking Survival Kit With Compass

 

What We Like: Learning about how to survive in the wilderness is possible with this gear kit. The total weight of the kit is less than one pound, and all of the contents fit neatly into the included case, so it’s easy to carry when it’s not needed.

 

Buying Guide

Though all compasses achieve the same purpose of telling you which direction you’re facing, there are a myriad of different designs and features available to best suit your next adventure. Whether you’re just getting into hiking or you’re a seasoned backpacker looking to replace an old compass, we’re here to direct you. Here’s what to look for in your compass purchase. 

• Type: Compasses are generally separated into three categories.

• Basic: Basic compasses only have a needle that points you toward Magnetic North. They’re handy for any situation where you only need to know your approximate direction.

• Sighting: These compasses have flip-up lenses that allow users to get bearings from a distant object, such as a nearby mountain peak. To use sighting compasses, match the sight notch with your desired location, and adjust the bezel to align with the needle. 

• Orienteering/baseplate: Designed to be used with a map, these compasses take the appearance of a ruler. The round compass sits on the ruler with straight edges on three sides to guide a pencil or pen for triangulation. 

• Features: A needle is the most basic compass feature, standard on any high-end or low-end instrument. Compass scales, magnifiers, index lines, sighting mirrors, carabiners, clinometers, and storage cases are also common, though technically optional. 

• Material and durability: From thin plastic to military-grade metal and glass, compasses are made from a range of materials. The stronger the materials, the more durable the compass is and the less likely it is to break or become inaccurate. 

 

How Do I Use a Compass? 

A compass is only useful if you know how to use it. To get the most out of your compass, regardless of which model you choose, consider these basic, helpful pointers. 

• Know your compass. Before you take your compass out into the wilderness, make sure you understand its basic layout. Though compass designs vary, every one of them has a magnetized needle that orients itself to the magnetic fields of Earth.

• Hold the compass correctly. Place it flat on your palm, and put your palm in front of your chest. When you’re in motion, this is generally considered the proper compass stance. If you’re reading a map, place the map on a flat surface, and place the compass on top of the map to get an accurate reading. 

• Find out which direction you’re facing. Look at the magnetic needle, and turn the degree dial that surrounds the needle until the orienting arrow lines up with the magnetic arrow. This will tell you the general direction you’re facing.

• Understand the difference between True North and Magnetic North. True North refers to the layout of maps and how all longitudinal lines meet at the North Pole. Magnetic North takes the axial tilt of Earth’s magnetic field into account. True and Magnetic North can vary as much as 20 degrees in certain locations on the planet. 

• Know how to declinate. Declination allows you to calculate the difference between True North and Magnetic North. In many situations, this calculation is a simple matter of addition or subtraction. 

 

Tips for When You’re Lost

Although having a quality compass and knowing how to use it should prevent you from getting lost, accidents happen. The following tips will tell you what to do in these situations.

• As soon as you realize you’re lost, stop moving. Pacing or continuing to walk will exhaust otherwise valuable mental and physical energy. Take a moment to relax and collect yourself. 
• Retrace your steps, and think back to any recent landmarks you saw. If you have any photos of your hike, pull them out to jog your memory.
• If you’re on a trail, stay on the trail. This will increase your likelihood of running into other hikers or backpackers who you can ask for directions. 
• If you’re not on a trail, as a last resort option, follow a nearby stream or drainage system downhill. Moving water tends to lead to a road, trail, or impasse. 
• Be ready to spend the night or rest to conserve energy if you’re still lost with no hope of finding your way back or getting help. Don’t rush your thinking process to beat the onset of darkness. 
• Be prepared. Knowing the trail, notifying others where you’re going, and bringing plenty of supplies will ensure that even if you do get lost, you’re prepared to stick it out. 

 

 

FAQs

• How do I maintain my hiking compass? 

Though most hiking compasses are durable and built to withstand water, dust, and impact, it’s still important to handle them with care. If your compass has a protective case, store it in that case when it’s not in use. Additionally, because compasses use a magnetic arrow, store it away from electronic devices. 

• Can I use a compass app on my smartphone? 

You can, but you run the risk of your smartphone dying or losing signal. Compasses don’t rely on batteries to operate, so they can be used at any time. Dedicated compasses are also generally more accurate and robust than a compass app built into a smartphone. 

• What does it mean when my compass has been reversed? 

The magnetized needle in your compass is usually marked to indicate which way is north and which way is south. However, if your compass comes into contact with another magnet, it’s possible for its needle to point in the wrong direction. When this happens, you can usually reset it with a strong magnet.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Badlands Hunting Backpack

 

What We Like: The fabric of this hunting backpack is available in a variety of outdoor-themed patterns. This allows you to match it to the environment you usually hunt in. It also comes loaded with features that avid hunters will love, including a hip belt pistol holder, a hydration reservoir, and a meat shelf. 

Auscamotek Hunting Fanny Pack

 

What We Like: You might not picture a fanny pack when you’re thinking about all of the gear that hunters haul. However, the option to shed cumbersome weight and maintain maneuverability can be key to getting in the best possible position for your target. You can wear this particular pack around your waist or across your body. Its two zippered pockets safely contain essentials, such as a pocket knife, hunting license, flashlight, and rangefinder. 

ALPS OutdoorZ Pack Bag

 

What We Like: With a volume of 5,250 cubic inches, this pack has plenty of space for overnight backcountry trips. The pack has several compartments, including three side pockets and three front pockets, to hold a variety of equipment. Plus, the freight shelf can be carried on your back and comes with three extension straps to secure oversized loads.

Insights Hunting Backpack

 

What We Like: This hunting backpack uses cool mesh, a padded back support panel, thick shoulder straps, and more to place less strain on your body while still providing a stable and secure fit. Its three-in-one front panel can be used as a storage compartment, shelf, or basket depending on your needs at any given time.

SITKA Gear Apex Pack

 

What We Like: When you’re stalking an animal or moving from one scouting post to another, making as little noise as possible is key. The frameless design of this hunting pack reduces noise, friction, and abrasion. Because of its frameless build, it’s lightweight at just 2.5 pounds. This makes carrying it for extended periods effortless. 

 

Buying Guide

Whether you’re a crossbow hunter or a long-distance trekker, there’s a pack for you. To help you zero in on the best hunting backpack for your needs, read our buying guide below. 

• Size: The general rule of thumb when choosing a pack size is to have about 1,000 cubic inches of space for a day’s worth of supplies. When you’re packing for a trip, multiply the number of days you’ll be gone by 1,000 cubic inches. Besides pack capacity, pay attention to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. Choose a size or adjust the straps according to your waistline to ensure a comfortable fit.

• Load-bearing system: A comfortable and supportive backpack uses multiple components that work together to bear the weight of what you’re carrying. This load-bearing system includes the waist belt, shoulder straps, frame, and load lifters. The waist belt is made to hold the brunt of the weight in your pack, putting less strain on your shoulders. The load lifters bring the load tighter to your back to reduce the tension on your shoulders.

• Camouflage: It’s unlikely to find a dedicated hunting backpack without some sort of camouflage exterior. However, these camouflage designs vary in their colors and patterns. Consider the foliage where you go hunting, and try to look for a pack that has a similar camouflage scheme. 

• Storage: A series of pockets and compartments on the outside and inside of your hunting backpack keeps your items protected. They can carry everything from a large rifle or crossbow to a pair of sunglasses. 

• Load hauling: There’s no point in hunting if you can’t carry caught animals home with you. Larger hunting backpacks help you haul bulky and heavy animals by strapping them to dedicated shelves.

 

Hunting Safety Tips

Bringing back a load of meat is secondary to your safety when you’re hunting. Here are some basic hunting safety tips to prepare for your upcoming trip: 

• Understand and practice weapon safety whether you’re using a bow or a firearm.
• Wear the right clothing, including warm base layers, waterproof exterior layers, and close-toed shoes. 
• Let someone outside of your hunting party know where you’ll be and when you intend on returning. 
• Pack a small first aid kit in your backpack in case of an emergency.
• Bring a phone with a charger or a walkie talkie with spare batteries to contact someone in case of an emergency.

 

 

FAQs

• What should I keep in my hunting backpack? 

Anything you need for comfort and survival should be carried in your hunting backpack. This includes weapons to take down animals, accessories to scout and attract them, first aid supplies to help with emergencies, permits to prove you’re allowed to hunt, and snacks and beverages to keep your energy up. 

• How do I prevent chafing when I’m wearing my hunting backpack? 

A properly cinched and secured backpack should keep the backplate from jostling when you’re hiking. Evenly distributing the weight of your belongings throughout the pack will also make it feel more comfortable. If dry skin or chafing is a major concern, apply an anti-chafe lubricant to problem areas, and wear soft, breathable layers that are gentle on the skin. 

• How heavy should a hunting day pack be? 

In total, including all of your gear, 40–60 pounds is about how heavy a hunting pack for a day trip should be. For longer trips, 60–80 pounds is suitable.

• How do I clean animal blood off of my hunting backpack? 

Blood spots are inevitable after a successful haul. If your pack is soaked in animal blood, follow these steps to clean it:

• Spray it with a power sprayer on a concrete surface, such as a driveway. 
• Soak it in a tub of ice-cold water for 30 minutes. 
• Hand or brush wash the exterior and interior fabric. 
• Repeat this process until you’re satisfied with the results.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

XIAKE Safety Vest

 

What We Like: Because this vest is made of thick polyester, it’s less likely to tear or incur any damage. It’s also built for comfort, as the zipper closure is designed to softly but securely cradle your outerwear. Additionally, its three-dimensional pockets expand outward to accommodate bulky items.

Tekware Safety Vests

 

What We Like: Pockets tend to weigh down safety vests. These pocket-free vests are a useful alternative if you have a basket, toolbox, or other storage solution for your items. They also have two reflective strips on the shoulders and two along the waist to ensure 360-degree visibility.

LED Safety Vest

 

What We Like: Many safety vests are intended to mitigate occupational accidents, but additional visibility is also necessary if you like to exercise outdoors when it’s dark. In addition to its neon color, this vest has built-in lights with three flashing modes to help cars and other pedestrians notice you. A light charger and drawstring storage bag are also included with your purchase.

Shine Bright Safety Vest

 

What We Like: If you need to carry notebooks, identification badges, pencils, handheld tools, or other items on your person, consider this vest. It includes left- and right-side grommets, a two-tier right chest pocket, a see-through left chest pocket, a lower right pocket, and a lower left pocket with a second compartment. The zipper system is also built to last with webbing reinforcement, and the padded neck collar keeps you comfortable for several hours. 

KwikSafety Safety Vest

 

What We Like: This high-performance safety vest works for security personnel, construction workers, crossing guards, and anyone else who needs the highest level of visibility. It also comes packed with expandable pockets, pull tabs, and other storage options to secure frequently used items on your person. 

 

Buying Guide

From baggage handlers to nighttime joggers, safety vests offer valuable peace of mind. Though all safety vests are designed to make the wearer more visible to others, there are several differences from model to model. Our guide below explores these differences to help you make the right selection for your worksite or personal needs.

• Pockets: Most safety vests come with at least two pockets. Frequently used items, such as pens and flashlights, can be easily stowed and accessed with these. Many safety vests also include a transparent pouch to hold badges or other forms of identification. 

• Cleaning: Many safety vests are machine-washable. However, with each wash cycle, the reflectivity of the vest progressively wears away. For this reason, hand washing is recommended to ensure longevity. Professional laundering services may be able to clean safety vests in bulk and return them without compromising reflectivity. 

• Comfort: Those who use safety vests are likely wearing them for multiple hours at a time, making comfort a priority. Going one size up from your normal shirt size, opting for breathable materials, and looking for additional features, such as a padded collar, are a few ways to ensure comfort. 

• Closure system: Lower-end safety vests use a simple fabric fastener to attach the two sides together. These fasteners are quick and easy to use, but they aren’t as secure as the zippers used on higher-end safety vests. Zippers also tend to last for longer.

• Sleeves: Some safety vests resemble more of a “safety shirt,” as they have short sleeves that reach midway down the arm between the shoulder and the elbows. Sleeved safety vests offer slightly more warmth and visibility. 

• LED lights: Reflective strips are a standard feature on every safety vest, but some products have built-in LED lights for additional visibility in nighttime conditions. However, vests with lights require rechargeable or single-use batteries. It can also be difficult to clean around the electrical components of the lights. 

• Weight: Safety vests usually weigh around a pound, with activewear vests weighing even less. Heavy-duty safety vests are slightly heavier because they’re made from thicker materials, but even then, they still aren’t heavier than a few pounds. If skin protection or warmth is desired, wear additional layers underneath the vest. 

 

Safety Vest ANSI Certifications and Classifications

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) helps establish workplace safety standards. This regulatory agency often tests work-related tools and equipment to ensure that they function as advertised.

Any safety vest meant for professional use should be certified by the ANSI. Here are brief descriptions of the ANSI’s three safety vest classifications.

• Class 1: These safety vests are rated for relatively low-risk conditions. This includes scenarios where passing automobiles are traveling at speeds less than 25 miles per hour. High-visibility safety vests for exercising outdoors at night commonly fall under Class 1. 

• Class 2: Class 2 safety vests are required for personnel who are exposed to heavier traffic or who work in low-visibility areas. Low visibility can be a result of inclement weather conditions, large pieces of equipment blocking an employee’s view, or night shifts. Class 2 safety vests are equipped with enough reflective tape to provide the wearer with 360 degrees of visibility. They’re commonly used by contractors, crossing guards, engineers, surveyors, public safety officers, and other professionals. 

• Class 3: Class 3 safety vests take the same baseline requirements as a Class 2 safety vest and add additional reflective strips and other features to further enhance visibility. Class 3 safety vests are necessary for those working near traffic that meets or exceeds speeds of 50 miles per hour or those in extremely low-visibility conditions. Road construction crews, railway workers, and emergency responders commonly utilize these. 

 

 

FAQs

• Is a safety vest considered a type of personal protective equipment? 

Yes. However, note that these reflective garments are designed to prevent accidents from occurring. They don’t protect against falling objects, dangerous chemicals, or other workplace hazards. Other forms of personal protective equipment, such as goggles, hard hats, and steel-toed boots, shield the wearer if an accident occurs. 

• Why do safety vests come in different colors? 

Though yellow, green, and orange are the most common colors for safety vests, you will come across a variety of other colors, such as blue, red, and pink. If your vest is for personal use, the color doesn’t matter. However, some workplaces require specific colors. For example, workers on a particular railroad may need orange vests.

• Is it necessary to pair my safety vest with safety pants? 

For certain high-risk and low-visibility professions, yes. For example, firefighters are frequent users of high-visibility pants. However, in most cases, a safety vest is enough to make yourself seen from a long distance. 

• How do I stay warm when I’m wearing a safety vest? 

Safety vests are usually made with thin, sweat-wicking mesh or polyester, so they’re not designed to keep you warm. Safety vests should be your outermost layer with warm, insulated, and waterproof layers underneath them. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Syngenta Cockroach Killer

 

What We Like: This cockroach bait works by attracting cockroaches, poisoning them, and poisoning others in the colony as the insecticide is carried back. Indoxacarb — a long-range, delayed-action insecticide — provides a 1:40 cockroach killing ratio, meaning that a single cockroach can poison up to 40 other roaches. This particular insecticide also works well against some of the most resilient cockroaches, including those that have developed resistance to other roach killers. 

Combat Roach Killer

 

What We Like: If you don’t want to handle chemical-laden gels or sprays or constantly patrol your home, these cockroach bait traps are worth considering. Simply place a bait station in an inconspicuous area of your home where you have noticed roach activity, and over time, your infestation should curb itself.

Ortho Indoor Insect Barrier Spray

 

What We Like: The best way to deal with a cockroach infestation is to prevent them in the first place. If you’d like to go beyond traditional measures, such as securing food, vacuuming frequently, and sealing window and door cracks, go the extra mile using this spray. When properly and thoroughly applied, it creates a long-lasting barrier for up to 12 months. The continuous spray wand also makes it easy and comfortable to apply. 

Safer Diatomaceous Earth Powder

 

What We Like: Though many modern insect killers use harsh chemicals, an all-natural product like diatomaceous earth eliminates cockroaches without bringing harmful insecticides into your home. It also has an unscented formula, so you’ll hardly notice that it’s there. 

Bengal Gold Roach Spray

 

What We Like: No odor, no mess, and rapid results, these cans give you everything you could want from a cockroach killer. Coming in a two-pack, you can spray along baseboards, under kitchen appliances, and in other areas where cockroaches frequent to get protection for months on end with several applications.

 

Buying Guide

Cockroach killers take the form of sprays, traps, gels, and more. To find the best cockroach killer for your infestation, consider the following information. 

• Type: Below are explanations of four common cockroach killers on the market.

• Gel: Cockroach gel combines an attractant to lure roaches in with an insecticide to kill them. Roaches get poisoned when they touch or eat the insecticide. Because of the insecticide’s delayed-action formula, roaches unknowingly carry the poison back to their colony before they’re killed. The poison spreads, killing more than just the roaches that came into direct contact with it.

• Spray: Sprays come in two forms — residual and non-residual. Residual sprays leave a film of insecticide around the perimeter of your home or in targeted areas where you have seen roach activity. Non-residual sprays are used when you see a roach and want to kill it on contact. For the best results, we recommend using a mix of both roach sprays. 

• Trap: Unlike spray and gel, traps act like monitoring devices to detect cockroach infestations. Once the trap captures some roaches, the homeowner can deploy additional traps or cockroach killers in that area to further combat the issue. The surface of the trap is covered with a strong adhesive to capture cockroaches as well as other insects as they crawl across it. Most of these pests can’t escape, dying within a day or two from starvation. 

• • • Powder: Much like spray, powder is applied around the perimeter of your home or in areas where you have seen cockroaches. However, it typically has a more environmentally friendly formula.

• Versatility: When cockroaches are present, it’s likely that other pests are as well. Certain products target a variety of invasive indoor insects, including ants, spiders, bed bugs, centipedes, crickets, and fleas. 

• Odor: Most cockroach killers, especially traps, don’t produce a strong odor. However, sprays do contain potent insecticides and other chemicals that can leave your home with an unpleasant smell. If this bothers you, we recommend wearing a mask during application and following up with an aerosol-based odor neutralizer. 

• Residue: Cockroach sprays, powders, and gels leave a residue behind. If you don’t want this, traps are a good option, as they’re generally self-contained. 

• Disposal: No one wants to handle dead cockroaches. Some cockroach traps contain the roaches, so little to no direct contact is required. Unfortunately, the other types leave a bit of a mess. In these instances, a broom and dustpan are useful. You can also wear rubber gloves to prevent direct skin contact. 

 

How To Prevent a Cockroach Infestation

If you’ve dealt with cockroaches recently, chances are high that they’ll return and in greater numbers. The best way to prevent this is to be proactive, taking steps to eliminate environments where they thrive. Follow our tips below to do this.

• Seal cracks: With a flexible exoskeleton, it’s easy for cockroaches to squeeze through gaps as narrow as one-sixteenth of an inch. Locate as many holes and cracks as possible in your walls, windows, and doors, and seal them with a caulk that contains boric acid.
• Eliminate clutter: Cockroaches aren’t dubbed as the “ultimate scavengers” for nothing — they’re attracted to nearly anything with an odor. Keeping your living space clean and tidy won’t give them anything to be attracted to.
• Secure food: Finding food crumbs is akin to a gold mine for cockroaches. Wipe your surfaces, secure your food in airtight containers, and empty your trash regularly.

 

 

FAQs

• Do cockroaches pose an immediate threat to my health? 

Cockroaches aren’t venomous or poisonous. However, they can be an asthma trigger. They also carry various bacteria that can cause illnesses if ingested.

• What are Insect Growth Regulators? 

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) disrupt the reproductive cycle of your roach population. You can think of IGRs as a form of birth control, interrupting the larvae and egg stages of the roach life cycle. IGRs are often found in gel-based roach bait. 

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a cockroach killer spray?

Sprays are fast-acting, while other killers take multiple days or weeks to do their job. However, cockroaches reproduce quickly and hide well, so it’s difficult to eliminate the entire population with one or multiple spray applications. Sprays work best in conjunction with other treatment options. 

• Are natural ingredients, such as essential oils, effective at killing cockroaches?

  No. In fact, using essential oils, cucumber peels, or other ingredients that claim to be natural insect repellents will likely attract additional cockroaches rather than repel or kill them. A serious cockroach infestation almost always warrants the use of insecticide-based killers. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Glow Mind Glow Stick Party Pack

 

What We Like: The glow sticks and connectors in this pack are conveniently packaged in three cylindrical tubes to keep them organized and ready to activate. The sticks come in seven neon colors, including red, yellow, and green. 

SpringFlower Glow Stick Party Pack

 

What We Like: If you have a kid with a passion for bugs, this glow stick pack makes for the perfect party decoration. The toys are reusable as well, so replacement glow sticks can be inserted when the old ones fade.

HSGUS Glow Stick Party Pack

 

What We Like: Whether you’re camping in darkness or creating memorable gift bags for your party guests, these versatile glow sticks suit any need. They come in six colors and glow for up to 12 hours. Their built-in hooks also make hanging them from poles, chains, and other items or structures easy.

Attikee Glow Stick Party Pack

 

What We Like: This pack makes it quick and easy to turn standard eight-inch glow sticks into wearable items, such as bracelets, necklaces, and glasses. If you’re hosting a smaller gathering but still want m

Glow Mind Safety Glow Stick Pack

 

What We Like: These glow sticks make the perfect emergency lighting option, as they require no tools or electricity to activate. With a long four-year shelf life, you can keep them stowed away in an emergency kit knowing that they’re ready to glow when you need them. They also feature hooks one one end for easy hanging.

 

Buying Guide

Glow sticks can decorate your party, liven your outfit, or illuminate your campsite. However, there are a few differences worth considering to find the glow stick party pack to fit your needs. Read our buying guide below to learn about these differences.

• Glow Lifespan: Most glow sticks are designed to shine for six to 12 hours. The light will progressively fade over time after you crack them, being at their brightest for the first two to three hours after they’re activated.

• Safety: While thin, multicolored glow sticks are intended for parties, other glow sticks are designed to provide lasting illumination for safety purposes. For example, if you’re stranded on the side of the road or your power goes out from a winter storm, short, fat glow sticks provide you with temporary lighting.

• Length: The thick glow sticks that are used for safety are usually six inches long. They can’t be connected to one another, but they have built-in hooks for hanging. Thin glow sticks for parties are eight inches long, but they come with connectors to make them longer or form them into shapes. 

• Colors: Glow sticks in party packs usually come in a variety of colors, including blue, red, green, purple, yellow, pink, and orange. Glow sticks for safety typically come in a vibrant and easy-to-spot green color. 

 

 

FAQs

• Will my glow stick party pack work in brightly lit areas? 

The glow sticks will activate, but the luminescent glow won’t be very visible.

• Is it unsafe to get a glow stick party pack wet? 

Glow sticks have a firm plastic exterior layer that prevents them from malfunctioning if they accidentally get wet. 

• What should I do if my glow stick accidentally breaks open? 

The liquid inside of most glow sticks contains dibutyl phthalate. This oily and colorless liquid is low in toxicity, so accidental consumption or skin contact won’t result in a medical emergency. However, we recommend immediately washing any affected areas with water, as this liquid is known to irritate the skin. 

• What can I decorate with glow sticks? 

Using the included connector pieces in your glow stick party pack, the sky’s the limit. Here are several ideas to get you started: 

• Sunglasses
• Jewelry, such as bracelets and necklaces
• Chandeliers
• Hula hoops
• Hopscotch boards

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Veradek Plant Pots

 

What We Like: These pots are made from high-grade plastic with a scratch-resistant finish that’s rated for use in temperatures ranging from -30 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit. The removable shelf inserts also allow you to raise the bottoms to accommodate smaller plants.

HBServices USA Plant Pot

 

What We Like: This six-inch round planter comes with a removable water tray that gives you two or more weeks of water. The tray sits on built-in risers to prevent circular stains on your floor or table. The planter has hollow legs that sit inside of the tray and soak up water or drain water as needed. 

WallyGro Plant Pots

 

What We Like: These hanging planters hold wisteria, honeysuckle, and other plants that grow best along a support structure, such as a wall. They also work well if you’re strapped for space in your home or you want a natural form of wall decor. Additionally, the brackets allow you to easily remove the pots as needed to water or otherwise maintain your plants.

Sietpoek Plant Pots

 

What We Like: With different designs, you can plant identical plants in each of these pots and still be able to tell them apart. The ceramic material gives these planters a sturdy build, but because they’re relatively small in size, they’re easy to move from one room to another. 

VIVOSUN Plant Pots

 

What We Like: From the sunroom to the front porch, these fabric pots can be moved around your home and yard with the attached carrying handles. Though they’re not overly stylish, they do provide a reliable and lasting way to grow large quantities of indoor and outdoor plants.

 

Buying Guide

From concrete pots that can withstand the elements to hanging planters that seamlessly blend in with your interior decor, plant pots vary greatly. Keep the below factors in mind when you’re looking through your online options. 

• Size: We recommend choosing a plant pot that’s one or two inches larger than the size of your plant. Too small of a pot doesn’t give your plant room to grow, while too large of a pot may cause excess water to pool. If you anticipate your plant growing rapidly, consider using a small, disposable pot before moving it to a larger, permanent pot. 

• Drainage: Built-in drainage holes at the bottom of a pot allow the soil to dry, preventing root rot. If your planter doesn’t have holes, create a drainage layer at the bottom of it with pebbles. 

• Construction: While popular, clay and ceramic are prone to cracking, chipping, and breaking. Plastic and woven fabric plant pots are slightly more resilient, with metal pots being stronger than that. However, if you want ultimate protection for the elements, concrete plant pots are the way to go. 

• Style: If aesthetics are a priority for you, choose a plant pot that’s both stylish and functional. Many planters are available in different colors and designs to complement any space. 

 

 

 

FAQs

• Will my plant pot come with a saucer? 

Many planters come with saucers to catch excess water. If yours doesn’t, you can let it drain onto the ground if it’s outside or place it over a sink or tub for 10–15 minutes if it’s inside.

• Will prolonged sun exposure damage my plant pot? 

The exterior surface of your plant pot may fade over time, especially if it’s made with clay, ceramic, or terracotta. However, it will still function properly.

• How do I avoid overwatering my plants? 

Start by pouring a little water, because it’s easier to add water rather than attempt to drain and dry waterlogged roots and leaves. Consider a ceramic or clay pot if you tend to overwater plants, as these materials are more moisture-wicking than plastic, metal, or fabric. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Enoz Moth Balls

 

What We Like: Once you open a package of moth balls, the air automatically activates them. These particular moth balls come in six small packages, which ensures that you don’t waste moth balls you don’t need by activating them too soon. The active ingredients in these balls also work to repel other pests, including various insects and rodents. 

Armor Shell Moth Repellant

 

What We Like: The ideal moth repellent should be nontoxic, easy to use, and great-smelling. This product checks all of those boxes and more, as it provides users with multiple ways to keep moths at bay. Included in this kit are cedar hangers, cedar sachets, cedar balls, cedar rings, and lavender sachets.

Cedar Sense Moth Repellant

 

What We Like: Frequent travelers and homebodies alike will appreciate the natural moth-repelling qualities of these cedar rings. The rings are small enough to fit in tight areas ranging from inside dresser drawers to over clothes hangers.

Enoz Moth Bar

 

What We Like: These bars function like moth balls, but they come in larger rectangular shapes to give you more repelling power. They have hooks to hang directly on your closet rack. Their lavender scent is also a nice benefit, as it makes your clothes smell freshly laundered.

 

Buying Guide

Are you in need of moth balls but aren’t sure what to consider? Check out our buying guide below to help you direct your purchase. 

• Moth Species: Not all moths are the same. Two of the most common species are clothing moths and pantry moths. Clothing moths are attracted to human scents, while pantry moths like the smell of food. Read the instructions on moth balls before buying them to ensure that they target the species that’s invading your home. 

• Ingredients: While effective at repelling moths, naphthalene, one of the insecticides commonly found in moth balls, is toxic and unpleasant-smelling. If odor and toxicity are concerns for you, we recommend opting for natural ingredients in the form of essential oils or cedar wood. 

• Kits: Moth balls are sold in large quantities, as each ball is fairly small. However, you can buy larger moth repellent kits. These kits usually contain other tools, such as essential oil containers and cedar hangers, in addition to balls. 

 

 

FAQs

• What other preventative measures can I take to keep moths away?

You can: 

• Frequently clean your floors
• Dust furniture and hard-to-reach areas every one to two weeks 
• Keep your clothes, belongings, and perishable food items stored in airtight containers
• Wash your clothes before you store them for long periods of time 
• Brush any clothes made of wool or fur after you wear them outside 

• Are moth balls harmful to humans?

Traditional moth balls that contain insecticides are toxic to humans. Handle these moth balls with care, ensuring that you don’t ingest them or inhale their fumes for long. Moth balls made with cedar wood or essential oils are safe. 

• Can you get rid of moles with moth balls? 

Though moth balls have been said to help deter moles, you probably won’t get rid of them entirely. If you start spreading moth balls around your yard, the moles will likely dig a different tunnel to take another route.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Mighty Mint Spider Repellent

 

What We Like: This spray targets stray brown spiders, garden spiders, house spiders, and other common species before they become a full-fledged infestation. The plant-based ingredients are safe for children and pets. You can also dilute the spray with water to increase its coverage area. 

Bectine Ultrasonic Pest Repeller

 

What We Like: These plug-and-play pest control devices are easy to activate and provide around-the-clock protection for you and your family. Because they come in a pack of six, you can place them in different rooms around your home to extend your coverage.

Stay Away Spider Deterrent

 

What We Like: As opposed to natural sprays that leave a residue or standard insecticides that are toxic to humans and pets, this spider deterrent offers a no-mess, safe solution. It targets spiders specifically, protecting your home for up to 30 days.

Rockwell Labs Dust Insecticide

 

What We Like: In addition to being applied out of the bottle as a powder, this insecticide can be mixed with water or a foaming agent to produce a spray, foam, or mop solution. It eliminates and prevents infestations in residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural settings. Plus, it’s moisture-resistant, odorless formula won’t give you headaches or break down in heat or direct sunlight.

Tempo Pest Control Insecticide

 

What We Like: This powder concentrate serves as a potent, odor-free perimeter barrier for spiders and other insects. It also works well on plants and trees to get rid of garden pests. Though it produces a lot of spray once it’s mixed with water, its small tub takes up minimal storage space in your garage.

 

Buying Guide

From chemical sprays to ultrasonic devices, there are many options to manage your spider infestation. Read our buying guide below to learn about your spider repellent options as well as other distinguishing factors that will help you make an informed purchase.

• Repellent Type: Some of the most common types of repellents that work on spiders include:

• Spray: Sprays are applied to areas where spiders and other pests frequent. They can come with natural, nontoxic ingredients or strong chemicals. 

• Packet: These spider repellent products are easy to set up, as they come in ready-to-place packets or pouches. They usually contain a variety of concentrated essential oils as their active ingredients, warding off spiders and other pests with a strong odor.

• Ultrasonic Device: Ultrasonic repellers are operated via batteries or outlets. They emit ultrasonic frequencies that are undetectable to humans but bothersome to insects. Cats and dogs may be able to hear these frequencies, but they’re not bothered by them. 

• Powder: Pest control powders typically utilize powerful insecticides, such as pyrethrin or cyfluthrin, to repel or kill a variety of insects. They can be applied as a powder or mixed with water to create a solution. Though they’re long-lasting and effective, they leave a powdery film on your surfaces and are toxic.

• Infestation Area: If spiders are concentrated in a small area, such as a bedroom, a single spray bottle could be a good solution. To cover multiple rooms or an entire home, consider a large bucket of powder, multiple spray bottles, or several ultrasonic plug-in devices. Mixing and matching multiple products will also ensure that any given area is thoroughly treated. 

• Ingredients: Most spider repellent products contain either naturally derived ingredients or insecticide-based chemicals. Professional pest control companies tend to use the latter; however, natural spider repellents can also be useful for DIY pest control.

• Lasting Effect: If the idea of reapplying spider repellent every few days or one to two weeks isn’t appealing to you, look for a product that’s designed to last 30 days or more after a single application. 

• Knockdown: This refers to how fast a repellent wards off or kills insects. Some repellents can take effect in a matter of minutes, while others work gradually over the course of several days to several weeks to create a strong and lasting barrier. 

 

 

FAQs

• Are spiders poisonous or venomous? 

Most spiders are poisonous, but only a few species are venomous. Poisonous spiders release their toxins when they’re ingested. On the other hand, venomous spiders inject their toxins using fang-like body parts. Venomous spiders are the ones you should worry about, and the two most common ones you’ll see are black widows and brown recluses.

• Are there spider-repelling plants? 

Predatory plants, such as the Venus fly trap, eat spiders or other insects that venture too close. Fruit from hedge apple trees also repels insects. You can place slices of fresh fruit every six to 10 inches from each other to form a barrier, but these slices will need to be replaced daily.  

• Will diffusing or spraying essential oils repel spiders? 

Essential oils, such as peppermint, neem, citronella, rosemary, and lavender, repel various insects, including spiders. In fact, many repellents on the market use some or all of these oils as their active ingredients.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Duraflame Infrared Heater

 

What We Like: The charm and appeal to a real wood-burning fireplace inside your home is second to none, but the smoke, maintenance, and chimney inspections are cumbersome. We like this infrared heater because it looks just like a real wood-burning fireplace, but requires none of the maintenance or care. Powered by electricity, simply plug it into a grounded wall outlet and flip a switch to turn it on or off. 

Heat Storm Infrared Heater

 

What We Like: Maintaining a comfortable temperature while saving valuable floor space inside of your home is important, especially for smaller rooms. This wall-mounted infrared heater does exactly that, and you can even hide the power cord inside of the heater when installed over an outlet. The grill is safe to touch, and its ETL safety certification makes it a sensible heater to use around children and pets. 

Dr Infrared Heater with Tripod

What We Like: If you have an inviting backyard hangout space and want to keep the party going during the colder months of the year, this outdoor infrared patio heater is a great fit for your home. It has three different power settings and comes with an extra-long power cable so you can position it to your liking, regardless of your proximity to power outlets. Tip-over protection adds an added level of safety.

LIFE SMART Infrared Heater

 

What We Like: When central heating isn’t cutting it during the frigid winter months, this infrared space heater is an essential complement to any area of your home that needs a little extra warmth. Eight wrapped infrared quartz heating elements provide efficient, even heat distribution and a soft natural warmth without changing the humidity or oxygen levels inside your home.

Dr Infrared Heater Forced Air Unit

 

What We Like: When you need to warm large semi-outdoor spaces such as a factory or worksite, a powerful heater is necessary. This infrared heater outputs an impressive 15,000 watts of power to instantly warm objects and people in a large area without the need for multiple units.

 

Buying Guide

Infrared heaters range in features, size, style, and more. Here are some important considerations to help you make an informed decision. 

• Style: Infrared heaters are available in different styles, including wall-mounted infrared heaters and standalone infrared heaters that can be placed wherever you choose. You’ll also find stylish infrared heaters that mimic the design of a stove or indoor fireplace, serving as a practical, yet attractive, furniture item. 

• Safety features: Safety features are common amongst space heaters; for example, tip-over protection, which automatically shuts the unit off if it accidentally tips over. Other safety features to look for include overheat protection, an automatic shut-off timer, and insulating materials that keep the exterior of the infrared heater cool to the touch. 

• Heating power: An infrared heater’s wattage will help you gauge how much its heat output is. A range of 300 watts to 1,500 watts is common amongst most consumer infrared heaters. Higher outputs are ideal to evenly distribute heat around larger, open spaces, such as an entire level of a home with an open floor plan. Bear in mind that greater heat outputs use more electricity. 

• Additional features: The operation of some infrared heaters is as simple as flipping a power switch. Others include a variety of features such as adjustable temperatures with an LED screen display, a remote control, humidification, air purification, and swiveling wheels that allow you to effortlessly position the infrared heater to your liking. 

 

 

FAQs

• What makes infrared heaters different from other space heaters? 

Infrared heaters warm up to the desired temperature very quickly compared to conventional heaters, and they’re also quieter. Infrared heaters are generally more efficient than ceramic or gas-powered heaters because they work by heating the objects in a room rather than the air around the heater. This also means that infrared heaters typically use less energy than other types of heaters. 

• Is it safe to plug my infrared heater into a power strip or extension cord?

No. Most manufacturers recommend plugging your infrared heater directly into a grounded wall outlet. Consult the owner’s manual for additional safety information. 

• How do I extend the life of my infrared heater? 

Infrared heaters are convenient in that they don’t require much maintenance. However, for optimal performance, we recommend placing your heater on top of an elevated surface, such as a table or counter, instead of on the floor. If your infrared heater also functions as an air purifier, make sure to change or wash the filters periodically. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Catchmaster Cockroach Trap

 

What We Like: These simple-but-effective cockroach traps use glue, cardboard, and a subtle peanut butter scent that traps roaches without the use of toxic chemicals. These traps are also highly effective on rodents and other types of pests, making them extremely versatile and cost-effective. Since dust sticks onto the surface of the traps, we recommend folding the glue board when placing the traps in particularly dusty areas. 

Hot Shot Cockroach Trap

 

What We Like: If you want to be sure that any cockroaches that you trap around the home are dead, these cockroach traps fit the bill nicely. They eliminate the need to spray additional chemicals or solutions around your home as each trap contains its own liquid solution that takes care of the roaches. We like that these traps are very easy to place exactly where you want them and contain both food and water to lure cockroaches. 

Black Flag Cockroach Trap

 

What We Like: Effectively attracting and trapping multiple insect types including cockroaches, Palmetto bugs, spiders, crickets, small scorpions, and more, these traps are cleverly designed to conceal what they catch once the insects venture inside. If you notice an excess of insects sticking out of the trap entrance, simply throw the trap away and replace it with a new one. 

HARRIS Cockroach Trap

 

What We Like: Getting serious and cracking down on your cockroach infestation involves employing different solutions. The boric acid-based roach powder with lure is designed to be long-lasting and fast-acting, killing roaches, water bugs, and silverfish for weeks after the initial application. It includes a powder duster for easy application in corners and crevices.

 

Bell Cockroach Trap 

 

What We Like: These cockroach traps are a versatile pest control solution that works against several species of pests including roaches, spiders, and bed bugs. You can use the sticky surface backing on each trap to place them nearly anywhere inside of your home. We recommend placing the traps alongside your walls and baseboards for the best results.

 

Buying Guide

Thinking about buying a cockroach trap to contain these pests, but not sure which one to buy? Check out this helpful guide to make the most informed decision. 

• Toxic traps: Many cockroach traps are designed to kill cockroaches using a delayed-action insecticide. This insecticide is able to spread around the cockroach nest and colony through their feces, secretions, and making contact with other dead roaches. Make sure to exercise caution using toxic cockroach traps around pets. 

• Non-toxic glue traps: This type of cockroach trap is best used as an investigative tool or preventative measure, as they’re more suited as a monitoring device to check if you have a roach problem. They can be dispersed near suspected nest sites with little risk to your pets or children. 

• Quantity: Cockroach traps are sold in quantities ranging from single units to packs of 90 and more. If you know you have a widespread cockroach infestation and aren’t hiring a professional exterminator to take care of the issue at hand, purchasing a large number of traps is an effective way to cover a large area or multiple rooms at a time. 

• Reusable options: Though many cockroach traps are designed to be disposable after one-time use — no one wants to directly handle dead roaches, anyway — there are alternative pest control products, such as ultrasonic pest control devices, that emit high frequencies of sound understood to deter a variety of pests, including roaches. 

 

 

FAQs

• Are cockroach traps effective? 

Yes. Most traps will mimic certain food sources and pheromones that roaches give off, attracting them in droves. Traps are a fantastic preventative measure to find where your cockroaches are coming from. If you have a small-scale infestation, this is probably the best way to control the problem. Generally, the best approach is to use a cockroach trap in conjunction with other methods of pest control, such as baits and sprays. 

• What’s the difference between a cockroach trap and a cockroach killer? 

While the two are often one and the same, cockroach traps are designed to lure roaches and other insects using pheromones as bait, and force their legs to stick to the surface of the trap using a strong glue. In this case, other insects that are drawn to the trap can act as additional bait for the cockroaches. Cockroach killers, on the other hand, use powerful chemicals, such as insecticides, to directly target and kill cockroaches and other insects on contact. 

• How do I know if cockroach traps aren’t enough, and I need to consult a professional extermination company? 

If you’ve noticed a lot of cockroach activity in your home or business recently, it’s certainly worth using conventional cockroach traps first before you bring in a professional. Glue or pheromone-based cockroach traps are generally the most cost-effective option, but this depends on the extent of your infestation. If you’ve placed multiple traps and found them overflowing with cockroaches, this is a sign that your infestation may be too large to effectively manage using traps. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Flowtron Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: Ideal to hang around your patio in the backyard or your front porch area, this lantern-style bug zapper features a durable, non-clogging electric killing grid to neutralize flying insects on contact. It uses little electricity — just pennies per day — and arrives fully assembled, so setup is a breeze. Bulb replacement is also easy, as no tools are required. 

ZAP IT! Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: This highly portable electric bug zapper puts the control in your hands to effortlessly target and neutralize bugs. We like the LED safety light to let you know when it’s on, but if you or someone else touches it by accident, there are three layers of safety mesh to protect you from getting a jolt. It also comes with a USB charging cable, so you’ll have everything you need to start zapping as soon as it arrives.

LiBa Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: If you’re looking for a bug zapper that’s lightweight but has a large surface area, this is a product to consider. Free from chemicals or toxic materials, this bug zapper is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. It also comes with a slip-out tray for easy cleaning, and it can be set on a flat surface or hung on a wall using the included mounting chain. 

Katchy Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: A large, loud, and imposing bug zapper sitting in the corner of your living room is bound to make your guests feel uncomfortable. These effective but potentially hazardous bug zappers can accidentally shock you, and that’s why we recommend this zap-free bug catcher as an alternative. The sleek look of this bug “zapper” won’t look like an eyesore in your living space, but it’ll attract and catch bugs around the clock. The disposal chamber is easy to access to throw away dead bugs.

WBM Bug Zapper

 

What We Like: If you want multiple bug zapping options offered in a single product, consider this bug zapper. It functions autonomously as a stationary zapper, but can be removed from the docking station and used as a portable bug zapper, much like a traditional fly swatter. The 1,200 mAh battery helps this bug zapper deliver a powerful shock to insects that venture near, and the handy USB charger allows you to quickly regain power when the battery is low. 

 

 

Buying Guide

Bug zappers are available in the form of hanging lanterns, plug-in night lights, and handheld zappers. Find the best bug zapper for your needs using this helpful buying guide. 

• Indoor or outdoor use: The type of bug zapper you buy is dictated by where you’re going to use it. While it’s certainly possible to use outdoor bug zappers indoors, we recommend following the manufacturer’s guidelines and only using the bug zapper in areas where it’s designed to function. If bugs are a major issue indoors and outdoors, consider getting two separate zappers for both areas. 

• Stationary bug zappers: Stationary bug zappers can either be plugged in or run on batteries, which are often rechargeable ones. These use a UV light to lure and kill insects who are attracted to the ultraviolet light and can double as a practical night light and insect killer. 

• Handheld bug zappers: A supercharged version of a traditional fly swatter, handheld bug zappers resemble the shape of a tennis racket. Instead of mashing flying insects into a hard surface to kill them, the electronic bug zapper will kill bugs the moment they come into contact with the zapper surface. Handheld bug zappers give the user the highest level of control, but make sure to exercise caution.

• Non-electrocuting bug zappers: Some bug zappers — mainly indoor ones — don’t use an electric shock to kill bugs that fly near. Like traditional bug zappers, they use UV light to attract flying insects, but also use a powerful fan to suck bugs into a disposal chamber that contains a sticky adhesive to trap them. If you’re worried about accidental shocks, this is a good option. 

 

FAQs

• How do bug zappers work? 

Bug zappers consist of a UV light, an electric power source (cord or battery), and a metal grid. The UV light attracts mosquitoes and other insects. When bugs encounter the electrified grid, they are instantly electrocuted and fall into a catch tray at the bottom of the zapper. In the case of handheld bug zappers, the dead bugs simply fall to the ground wherever you kill them.  

• Are bug zappers safe to use around pets and children? 

Generally, yes. Most bug zappers have a durable metal grid or bars in place that prevent people and pets from accidentally shocking themselves. Should contact with the zapper element somehow occur, the resulting zap isn’t pleasant, but won’t actually electrocute or cause lasting harm. 

• Do I need to empty my bug zapper? 

Most bug zappers aren’t self-emptying, so you’ll need to dispose of the dead insects yourself. Outdoor bug zappers may not contain a bug-catching chamber and instead, may allow the dead insects to simply fall to the ground beneath the zapper. In this case, it’s easy to simply sweep or vacuum the dead bugs. Other indoor bug zappers feature a disposal chamber that allows you to throw away dead bugs with little-to-no contact. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Billing Outdoor Spotlights

What We Like: Lighting your backyard or front walkway doesn’t have to be difficult. These stake lights are easy to install and use sunlight to naturally and automatically charge during the day, and they turn on at dusk when it starts to get dark out. The solar panel is adjustable so you can find the best angle for the lights to charge.

USTELLAR Outdoor Spotlights

 

What We Like: With a waterproof rating of IP66, these 25-watt floodlights are sold in a pack of two. Each contains 16 individual LEDs that put out a wide variety of colors — over 1,000 different color combinations. The units each have their own remote control, so they can be controlled separately in different areas of your home’s exterior. You have the option to hang the lights using the included hardware, or simply position each light on the ground away from foot traffic. 

URPOWER Outdoor Spotlights

 

What We Like: Great for those that live in places that receive a lot of sunlight, this four-pack of solar-powered outdoor spotlights function brilliantly to illuminate walkways, light plants or shrubbery in the front yard, or make sure that friends can easily identify your house number. The individual solar panels are adjustable by 180 degrees, and the lights can swivel by 90 degrees to achieve your desired lighting angle.

ZUCKEO Outdoor Spotlights

 

What We Like: Backed by heat resistance, frost resistance, and an IP66 waterproof rating, this set of outdoor spotlights is a durable solution to your outdoor lighting needs. They produce a soft, warm white color that looks great no matter what your landscaping design is, and the low voltage output makes these lights safe and compatible with most auxiliary low-voltage landscape lighting kits. 

Dimunt Outdoor Spotlights

 

What We Like: With these outdoor spotlights, brightly illuminating the outside of your home or business is energy-efficient, as these lights use a solar panel to charge during the daytime. The lights and the solar panel are both rotatable to match the angle of the sun or to shine on the desired area. The permanent “all-night” mode allows you to consistently illuminate a specific radius around the exterior of your home or business until the sun rises. 

 

Buying Guide

Finding the best outdoor spotlight comes down to your individual needs. From your home to your business, here’s some key information to think about before you make a purchase. 

• Solar charging: Solar-powered outdoor spotlights charge during the day in the sunlight and automatically turn on when it starts to get dark. These outdoor spotlights are easy to install, use no electricity from your home, and make for cost-effective pathway lighting. 

• Home security: Outdoor spotlights are primarily used as a home security solution — when a bright light suddenly flashes intruders, they’re likely to retreat to avoid being seen. Many outdoor spotlights have built-in sensors that detect movement, or have these sensors as an add-on. Some lights even offer configurable features like pulsating or strobing lights that draw as much attention as possible whenever movement is detected, ideal to keep storefronts secure. 

• Decorative lighting: From simple accent lights to full-blown party lights, colorful outdoor spotlights that illuminate trees, shrubbery, and other objects are a convenient way to decorate your home’s exterior for the holidays or any time of the year. Look for RGB lighting that allows you to select specific colors to match your desired look. 

• Waterproofing: Since your spotlights will be outside, they’ll eventually get wet due to the elements. Though most outdoor spotlights offer some level of water resistance, we recommend a waterproof rating of at least IP66. A rating of IP67 means that the light can be fully submerged in water while still being protected from damage. 

• Brightness and battery life: These variables usually share an inverse relationship, meaning that brighter light settings drain the battery faster than weaker light modes. Corded outdoor spotlights circumvent this dynamic, as they’re plugged into an outdoor outlet and don’t need to be recharged. 

 

 

FAQs

• How much lighting is too much lighting outside of my home? 

There’s no standard limit as to how many lights you can outfit in and around your home’s exterior. Many homeowners string festive lights during the holiday season and other times of the year. If you live somewhere with an HOA, inquire about any rules or regulations regarding exterior lighting limitations. 

• What are the advantages of using a solar-powered outdoor spotlight? 

Besides being eco-friendly, solar-powered outdoor spotlights will save you money on your electricity bill every month, especially if you live somewhere that experiences many sunny days per year. Additionally, solar-powered spotlights are generally quick and easy to install. 

• Is illuminating my home’s exterior necessary to thwart criminal activity? 

Outdoor spotlights aren’t a necessary addition to your backyard or front porch, but they’re a simple and effective way to let people know that you’re home — or, at least, to make people think you’re home. Outdoor spotlights also make it easier for delivery drivers to find your home when it’s dark. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Everlasting Comfort Cool Mist Humidifier

 

What We Like: If you’re looking for a low-maintenance cool mist humidifier that you can fill and forget about for a few days, this six-liter humidifier is worth considering. Depending on usage, it will put out moisture-rich air for up to six nights. We also think the essential oil tray is a nice feature that homeowners will enjoy, especially those who have high-traffic households that could use an additional pleasant aroma. Although this humidifier isn’t transparent, it does have a water level window on the side. The top-fill design is also convenient; simply unscrew the cap at the top of the unit and fill it with distilled or demineralized water. 

Raydrop Cool Mist Humidifier

 

What We Like: Many think about a bulky, oddly shaped machine when they picture a traditional humidifier. This cylindrical-shaped cool mist humidifier takes on a retro-like appearance with a thin, vertical slat running down the outside and a single dial that lets you change the speed setting. Though it’s relatively compact and space-saving in its size, the nearly two-liter water tank capacity will moisturize the air for nine hours — plenty of time to humidify during a night’s sleep. The small size and lightweight design of this cool mist humidifier also make it travel-friendly, able to transport between home and the office with ease. 

LEVOIT Cool Mist Humidifier

 

What We Like: This cool mist humidifier takes comfort and convenience to the next level. If the idea of getting out of bed to turn on or adjust your humidifier sounds cumbersome, you’ll be delighted by the app connectivity of this humidifier. Not only can it be controlled wirelessly through your smartphone, but you can even control the humidifier through your voice by connecting your smartphone to a third-party voice control assistant. The top-fill design, transparent water tank, and outward humidistat display are also nice features that round out this cool mist humidifier. 

Elechomes Cool Mist Humidifier

 

What We Like: Though this cool mist humidifier is bulkier than other products we’ve featured, the simple and aesthetically pleasing design compliments its impressive area coverage of up to 755 square feet. It has eight outward-facing buttons that make it easy to configure, and these features can also be accessed using the included remote control. We also like the leak-free design and top-fill system, which allow you to easily replace the water in the humidifier while minimizing spillage. 

Pure Enrichment Cool Mist Humidifier

 

What We Like: For a simple, no-frills cool mist humidifier that looks great and will reliably moisturize the air in a small bedroom overnight, we recommend this model. It has a soothing night light that makes it a suitable two-in-one machine for a nursery or child’s bedroom, which can be turned off if no light is desired. The unit is quiet when in operation, producing noise at around 30 decibels when humidifying the air around it. The transparent water tank and hourglass shape are also nice touches. 

 

Buying Guide

Cool mist humidifiers are a simple, cost-effective way to combat dry skin and moisten the air around you. However, cool mist humidifiers range in size, coverage, style, noise, and other features. To find a cool mist humidifier that best meets your needs, check out our buying guide. 

• Size and capacity: Cool mist humidifiers are available in units as small as a portable misting device that clips onto the air vent of your vehicle, all the way to bulky, heavier humidifiers that contain a six or seven-liter water capacity. The larger the water reservoir, the longer your humidifier can operate without the need to add more water. However, larger humidifiers can be more difficult to clean compared to compact or travel-sized ones. Whole-house humidifiers are also sold that connect to your home’s HVAC system, reducing the air’s dryness in every room. Though professional installation is likely necessary for a humidifier like this, it’s worth the upfront investment if you want humidified air automatically pumped throughout your home.

• Coverage: While whole-house humidifiers are a convenient and efficient way to humidify the air in your entire home — able to reach multiple thousands of square feet — standalone humidifiers that plug into an electrical outlet can quickly add moisture to the air in a single room. 175 to 500 square feet of coverage is common amongst many typical cool mist humidifiers. 

• Style: If you want your cool mist humidifier to blend in with your interior decor, there are options out there that use neutral colors, few exterior bezels, and a minimalist design. Humidifiers are also sold in a wide variety of shapes and colors, so no matter what your aesthetic needs are, you’re likely to find a cool mist humidifier that functions well and won’t stick out like a sore thumb. 

• Noise: Like most consumer electronics, the noise output of cool mist humidifiers is expressed in decibels (dB). The sound of the electric motor and bubbling water will produce an audible noise, but most humidifiers are very quiet, producing around 30dB of noise. Any humidifier that’s rated lower than 30dB will be virtually silent, emitting a soft background noise at most.

• Features: Basic humidifiers have a power switch and a reservoir to fill water, and that’s about it. More robust units have LED screens with a humidistat readout, displaying the current humidity levels in a given area. Other features include remote control, timer settings, UV filtration for air purification, soft glowing lights, trays to add essential oils, and even smart features like mobile app connectivity. Among most humidifiers, automatic shut-off is very common to avoid running the unit when it empties of water. 

• Filter vs filterless: Some cool mist humidifiers advertise themselves as filterless, while many models have a replaceable or washable filter. 

• Filter humidifiers: Removing the allergens and bacteria from the air, these filter humidifiers are ideal for people with allergies or respiratory issues. Humidifier filters can be costly to replace, however. Look for a model that has a washable filter. 

• Filterless humidifiers: You can save time and hassle by not cleaning or replacing the filter for a humidifier. If you’re sensitive to airborne contaminants, though, a filter-free humidifier might not be a great option, as they often leave more bacteria in the air compared to humidifiers that use a filter. 

 

Related Information: 

 

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Cool Mist Humidifier

• If you turn your humidifier off before it runs out of water, don’t let the stagnant water sit longer than a few hours. As this is a breeding ground for microbes and bacteria, make sure to dump out the remaining water and wipe down the water tank with a paper towel. 
• Use your cool mist humidifier to keep your houseplants happy, healthy, and lush. If they’re near a window and your humidifier is compact enough, place it on the windowsill adjacent to the plants. Otherwise, simply place the humidifier on a nearby table or even on the ground between multiple plants. 
• Cool mist and warm mist humidifiers are useful during any time of the year, regardless of the ambient humidity. This is due to the air purifying effects of humidifiers, which are highly beneficial for those living with respiratory conditions or allergen sensitivities. For enhanced air purification, look for a cool mist humidifier with a UV light filter. 
• For a refreshing scent, some cool mist humidifiers have a tray for essential oils to double their functionality as a humidifier and a scent diffuser. 
• To increase the coverage area for your humidifier, we recommend placing a fan nearby to direct the humidified area into multiple rooms. 
• If you have curious pets or roaming children, consider placing your cool mist humidifier(s) out of reach, ideally on top of elevated surfaces such as bedroom furniture or kitchen counters. 
• Cool mist humidifiers also serve as a great alternative to a white noise generator, as many find the subtle bubbling sounds of the water very soothing. 
• For most models, distilled or demineralized water works best to slow down any residue buildup inside of the water tank. 

 

FAQs

• What do I need a cool mist humidifier for? 

Suitable for any situation where the air around your home, workplace, or anywhere else where the air is dry, cool mist humidifiers subtly add moisture to the ambient air, rejuvenating your skin and hydrating your body. If you’re a plant owner, cool mist humidifiers also support their health, providing a temperate, moisture-rich environment. 

• How do I clean my cool mist humidifier? 

For general maintenance, we recommend fully draining and drying out the humidifier’s water reservoir before refilling it. To prevent bacteria buildup, use vinegar or a mild cleaning agent and wipe down the surfaces using a kitchen rag or paper towel. You can also place the water tank in the dishwasher for certain humidifiers. If your humidifier uses a filter, reference the manufacturer’s cleaning and/or replacement instructions to ensure longevity and optimal performance. 

• Which is better for me: a warm mist humidifier, or a cool mist humidifier? 

Though colder weather also typically means dryness in the air for many parts of the world, the chilly temperatures also make warm mist humidifiers a great option to raise the temperature while adding needed moisture to the air around you. On the other hand, if it’s warm and dry in your home, a cool mist humidifier is ideal — but still a great option even when it’s chilly outside. If you have children, opt for a cool mist humidifier, as the hot water in a warm mist humidifier can be a hazard.

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Hot Shot Flea Bomb

 

What We Like: For widespread flea and insect infestations in your home, take matters into your own hands with the help of these versatile flea bombs. Six individual fogger cans are included in this multi-pack, allowing you to cover multiple rooms or large, open areas in one single application. The treatment time is about two hours, which is shorter than other flea bombs for homes on the market. The leftover powder residue is minimal, so clean-up is fairly easy. 

Virbac Flea Bomb

 

What We Like: To stop fleas in their tracks and prevent them from developing, we recommend this flea bomb for the home in the form of an easy-to-use spray can. This powerful knockout spray also works on ticks, and with the help of pyriproxyfen, a potent insect growth regulator, you’ll be protected from flea and tick re-infestations for up to seven months. Make sure to let the carpet and other treated areas fully dry before making contact with them. 

ZOECON Flea Bomb

 

What We Like: This flea bomb for the home only comes with a single can of fogger, but cleverly functions to give off two different insecticides that work in tandem to kill adult fleas and developing fleas. A residual effect of up to seven months makes this flea bomb well worth your time, but make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and vacuum the affected areas every other day for two weeks after the treatment. 

Raid Flea Bomb

 

What We Like: This flea bomb uses an insect growth regulator to kill flea eggs, larvae, and adults. In addition to a generous coverage area, reviewers praise this spray bomb for its effectiveness and relatively short treatment time. Per the manufacturer’s guidelines, for the best results, treat your pet with the appropriate flea control product before returning them to the flea-treated area. 

Vet’s Best Flea Bomb

 

What We Like: This flea spray for cats is an alternative to conventional flea bombs for the home, allowing you to safely apply the all-natural formula directly onto blankets, pillows, upholstery, carpets, cat furniture, and more without the need for additional clean-up. We think this is a worthwhile flea and tick control product for people with multiple cats, as it promises immediate relief from these pests before conventional flea bombs are used.

 

Buying Guide

If you’re not ready to contact a professional extermination company to eliminate fleas in your home, it’s worth taking the time to choose the best flea bombs for home use. Here are a few aspects to consider to make the most informed decision. 

• Versatility: Many flea bombs for the home only target fleas, but other foggers will target and neutralize a variety of insects, such as bed bugs, cockroaches, ants, and spiders. If you’ve experienced issues with other insects and you’re willing to use a flea bomb for your home, it could be worth targeting multiple pests at one time. 

• Coverage area: How far a can of flea fogger or a flea bomb for the home can reach is usually measured in square or cubic footage. 1,500 to 3,000 square feet is common among many conventional flea bombs. Since you’re already going to the trouble of bombing your home, it’s better to use more product than you think you need to ensure plenty of even coverage around the affected areas. 

• Sprays versus standalone fogger cans: Traditional flea bombs for the home, or foggers, are time-activated and placed upright on a flat surface, left to spray a potent aerosol in an open area. Spray bottles and cans, on the other hand, are designed to be directly handled by the user, who can direct the spray exactly where it is needed the most. 

• Lasting effect: Fogger sprays and flea bombs for the home range in their promised residual effect, lasting anywhere from a handful of days or a couple of weeks to several months. The size of the can as well as the concentration of the active ingredients will determine how long the anti-flea and insect effect will stick around.

• Clean up: A time-released aerosol spray is naturally going to leave a layer of residue in your home. However, some manufacturers claim there’s less of a mess to wipe down than others. Covering furniture, food, and other objects with trash bags will help cut down on clean-up. 

 

 

FAQs

• How do I get the most effectiveness out of my flea bomb for home? 

Setting off foggers and flea bombs in your home takes a bit of work and time for them to be the most effective. However, the time and effort are worth the money saved by not hiring a professional pest exterminator. Here are several recommendations: 

• Turn off your pilot lights. 
• Unplug all appliances, including the refrigerator, oven, and toaster.
• Put all of your food away in closed, sealed containers. 
• Cover any items in trash bags that you don’t want to clean off after the flea bomb is activated. 
• Take apart bedding in each affected room. We recommend this so that the mattress, box spring, and frame are all separated, providing maximum exposure to any eggs and adult fleas. 
• It is ideal to let the aerosol fully soak into your carpet for a few days after the flea bomb is done, but this isn’t always realistic. 
• Above all else, make sure to pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid any health or safety issues. 

• What chemicals or insecticides are used in most flea bombs for home? 

Many flea bombs for home use a class of insecticides called pyrethroids or pyrethrins. Certain flea foggers also use a potent active ingredient known as S-methoprene that specifically targets flea eggs, effectively breaking the flea life cycle. Other flea sprays that don’t operate as time-activated fogger bombs may use natural, pet-friendly ingredients such as essential oils. 

• What can I do to avoid any health or safety issues with my flea bomb for home? 

Besides following the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully — the most important thing you can do — there are other general safety precautions we recommend. See below:

• Make sure that everyone, including children and pets, is out of the house completely before the flea bomb is activated. 
• Let your home air out for at least an hour with the windows open after the flea bomb has concluded. 
• Once you return home, clean everything that has come in contact with the aerosol. This may include clothing, furniture surfaces, children’s toys and mobiles, linens, and anything else a child could touch. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

TERRO Ant Killer

 

What We Like: If you’re strapped for time or don’t want to put a lot of effort into an otherwise minor ant infestation, this 12-pack of ant traps is an ideal solution. They’re very easy to use, and the liquid is designed to stay contained, so you won’t have to clean up a big mess. Although this ant killer contains borax, an active ingredient that neutralizes the ants, it’s not harmful to pets because the amount of borax is so small. However, we do recommend keeping your pets away from the traps just in case. 

Amdro Ant Killer

 

What We Like: These ant killer granules are effective against carpenter ants and other common types of outdoor ants. The granules have a large range of up to 1,080 linear feet once spread throughout your yard and around your house. It’s even possible to eliminate indoor ant problems by spreading these outdoor granules around the perimeter of your home. For the best results, you may need extra spreading equipment to evenly distribute these granules.

Ortho Ant Killer

 

What We Like: Living in an area with many insects doesn’t have to be miserable. For effective insect control without consulting a professional exterminator, this 32-ounce spray is enough to treat up to 5,300 square feet of grass, 1,400 square feet of foundation/perimeter, or 2,700 square feet of foliage. We like the easy applicator bottle that connects directly to a standard garden hose. 

Mighty Mint Ant Killer

 

What We Like: Proven effective in the real world, this natural and safer approach to pest control is made possible by using extra-strength peppermint essential oils. Ants, as well as spiders and other insects, avoid the otherwise pleasant odor of peppermint oil and will stay clear of any areas that you spray this mixture onto. Other naturally-derived ingredients found in this ant repellent spray include glycerin, polyglyceryl oleate, and soap.

Advance 375A Ant Killer

 

What We Like: This ant killer uses a specific combination of protein attractants, including abamectin, to entice a wide range of ant species to come toward the granules and carry them to the colony. Abamectin has been found to be non-toxic to humans, but it is dangerous to beneficial insects, such as bees. Overall, this is an ant killer bait worth considering that neutralizes most of the common ant types you’re likely to have in your yard. 

 

Buying Guide

Understanding the options available to curb your ant problem will help you achieve the best results in the least amount of time. Here’s what to consider. 

• Ant type: Ants are generally classified as indoor or outdoor ants, which is self-explanatory. However, there are a few ant species to research that will help you find the most effective ant killer. 

• Fire ants: Fire ants are different from other ants, as their stinging ability poses a painful threat to humans and animals. They build sizable mound-shaped colonies outdoors, resembling a pile of dirt. There are ant killers that specifically target fire ants.

• Carpenter ants: If you’ve heard of carpenter ants before, that’s because they’re one of the largest ant species in North America. They’re attracted to wood and can eat through walls, floors, ceilings, structural beams, and other areas of your home. 

• Pavement ants: Pavement ants commonly swarm in the cracks between pavement tiles — you’ve probably seen them on a sidewalk. Some pavement ants even have wings and are able to fly to another colony. 

• Odorous house ants: While all ants are naturally drawn toward food sources, odorous house ants specifically seek out sugar. They’re most active in the spring and summer months, are brown or black in appearance, and commonly nest in walls and underneath floorboards. 

• Application method: There are multiple ways to target and neutralize large quantities of ants using the best ant killer for your situation. Here are several of the options available to you. 

• Ant dust: This powder kills ants via contact or ingestion. It’s useful to help create a perimeter around your home or seal off any cracks or entry points. 

• Sprays: This direct form of ant killer gives the user control; simply point the bottle directly at the ants and spray a generous amount.

• Granule bait: Ant killer granules don’t kill the ants on contact. Instead, they’re attracted to the granules as a food source. The ants carry the granules down into the colony, which release poison designed to kill the queen ant.

• Bait stations: Bait stations are small, plastic containers that have a small opening where the ants enter. When inside, the ants grab a small piece of poisoned bait and bring it back to the colony. Exercise caution when using bait stations, and don’t place them in high-traffic areas around children or pets. 

 

 

FAQs

• Are regular ant killers unsafe for dogs and cats? 

Hydramethylnon is used as the active ingredient in products like ant bait granule, an ant killer designed for outdoor use. Though it’s generally safe for mammals, oral ingestion by dogs can cause vomiting and gagging. There’s no scientific data specifically addressing hydramethylnon in cats, but cats are usually more susceptible to chemicals than dogs, so caution is recommended. 

• How can I get the most use out of a spray-based ant killer? 

Ant sprays are a great tool to use in your battle against ants. Here are two primary ways to use them: 

• Using ant killer sprays to disrupt ant trails: For fast and effective results, disrupt the pheromone trail that ants leave behind. A spray can act as a contact killer to break up the trails and prevent them from returning. You can also use ant sprays as barriers that deter ants from crossing the spray path. 

• Using ant killer sprays to create barriers around your house: We recommend spraying all of your window sills as well as any cracks or devices around your house where you believe to have seen ant activity. The best ant killer products are designed to have a long residual effect, so periodic but relatively infrequent application of an ant killer spray in these areas should provide long-term protection. 

• Do ant killer products use the same active ingredients as professional pest exterminators? 

Generally, yes. Pest control professionals rely on a variety of products to effectively eliminate an ant infestation based on the location and severity. Common active ingredients used include boric acid, pyrethrum, hydramethylnon, bifenthrin, permethrin, fipronil, cyfluthrin, and abamectin. 

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

GearLight High Lumen Flashlight

 

What We Like: The night shift calls for long, grueling hours. These hours are spent in total darkness, and that’s why you need plenty of reliable flashlight hours to make it until morning. These LED tactical-style flashlights are lightweight but powerful, and the cases are made of military-grade aluminum. They are powered using three AAA batteries, but can also use a single 18650 rechargeable battery. Two lanyards and two belt clips are also included with these high lumen flashlights, able to fully equip two people in one purchase; or keep one in your home and another in your car for emergencies. 

NEBO High Lumen Flashlight

 

What We Like: Offering the convenience and practicality of a traditional headlamp without the hassle of making adjustments to the strap, this pocket-sized high lumen flashlight is a smart EDC item. The rechargeable battery only takes two hours to reach 100 percent and can recharge wirelessly using the included MagCable or via traditional USB. We like having five different options for lumen output, including 50 lumens, 200 lumens, 500 lumens, 50 lumens (strobing), 500 lumens (strobing), and 1,000 lumens. 

PeakPlus High Lumen Flashlight

 

What We Like: A flashlight has its use in many everyday situations, but some people prefer to be more prepared for unexpected situations than others. If you know a gear enthusiast and you’re looking for the perfect gift for any time of the year, this high lumen LED flashlight is worth considering. The adjustable beam allows the user to illuminate a wide area using the floodlight function, or focus an intense beam of light on objects as far as 600 feet away. 

Streamlight High Lumen Flashlight

 

What We Like: Easy to put away when you don’t need it and ready to shine brightly when it’s needed, this micro-flashlight is a great everyday tool for mechanics, service writers, security guards, specialized technicians, and many other professionals. The lithium-ion battery is rechargeable using the included USB charging cable, and the charging port is protected with a sliding metal sleeve. 

Interstate Batteries High Lumen Flashlight

 

What We Like: For those hundreds of miles away from the nearest streetlight, we recommend this extreme-performance high lumen flashlight that’s heavier but significantly brighter than the competition. It’s rechargeable and boasts an IPX-4 waterproof rating to resist exposure to water, and puts out 3,000 lumens of light using its lowest brightness setting. 

 

Buying Guide

All high lumen flashlights are extremely bright and achieve the same basic purpose of illuminating a dark area. However, there are a handful of variations to consider in order to find the best flashlight with a high lumen output that fits your exact needs. In our buying guide, we’ll briefly cover factors including beam distance, waterproof rating, total light output, power source, and overall style. 

• Beam distance: Measured in meters, the distance your light beam reaches is an important consideration. For urban environments, a short beam distance is likely to suffice, while sparsely populated rural areas with few buildings warrant a longer-distance light beam. Light beams are classified into “flood” beams and “spot” beams. Flood lights produce a wider stream of light, while spot lights produce a more narrow, focused beam of light. Depending on the high lumen flashlight, you may be able to switch between the two. 

• Waterproof rating: Water and electricity don’t mix — however, waterproofed electronics, such as a waterproof high lumen flashlight, are able to function without any issues after getting wet. IPX, or Ingress Protection, denotes that a flashlight will be able to resist moisture and water exposure. A rating of IPX-4 means that the flashlight should function as designed if it gets splashed or partially wet, and an IPX-8 rating means that the flashlight can survive being fully submerged in water for up to four hours. 

• Total light output: Flashlights with a higher lumen rating will produce a brighter and stronger beam of light. Most high lumen flashlights use modern LED bulbs to produce a brightness between 200 to 8,000 lumens. Make sure not to point a high lumen flashlight near someone’s eye, as temporary or permanent blindness can occur. 

• Power source: Many high lumen LED flashlights use a handy USB port to recharge the flashlight, eliminating the need to purchase new AA or AAA batteries. This can be problematic if your battery runs out and you don’t have access to a USB charger, but a portable power bank can fix this issue. Some flashlights also accept both types of batteries. Solar-powered flashlights and crank-powered flashlights are also available that work well in an emergency situation. 

• Overall style: High lumen flashlights come in many different shapes and sizes ranging from tiny, concealable, and pocket-friendly flashlights to heavier lantern-style flashlights. Beyond all of these other purchase factors, make sure to select a high lumen flashlight that fits your use. If you’re not sure, many flashlights are all-purpose and fairly versatile. 

 

 

FAQs

• What’s the best way to use my high lumen flashlight? 

Getting the most use out of your flashlight comes down to what you need it for. Some high lumen flashlights function as a powerful headlamp, great for camping enthusiasts or auto mechanics who need plenty of lighting at awkward or unnatural angles. Security guards or law enforcement officers, on the other hand, may prefer to carefully hold and position their high lumen flashlight to scan a particular area with precision. 

• Will my high lumen flashlight burn me if I touch it? 

Most high lumen flashlights are designed to stay cool to the touch, even when they’ve been on for a considerable amount of time. LED bulbs found in most advanced high lumen flashlights are specifically engineered to stay cooler than conventional incandescent bulbs. 

• I keep seeing “EDC” when shopping for a flashlight with a high lumen rating. What does this mean? 

EDC stands for “everyday carry,” and refers to practical, frequently used items that people carry on their person. These items are usually small and lightweight, able to fit in pockets without weighing the user down. A typical EDC high lumen flashlight may produce a powerful and bright beam of light, but it should also be compact and easy to conceal. 

• How do I preserve the battery life of my high lumen flashlight? 

Even the most basic high lumen flashlights usually feature multiple brightness settings. Operating your high lumen flashlight on its brightest and most powerful beam mode will drain its battery life the fastest, so we recommend alternating between different brightness settings to extend the battery life. Turning off the flashlight when you don’t need it is another obvious but effective tip. Additionally, if your high lumen flashlight is rechargeable via a USB port, carrying an auxiliary power bank allows you to charge it on the go.  

 

 

Pest Strategies provides reviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, and other objective criteria. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for non-professionals. Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator, even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.