Before selecting a preferred mosquito killer for your home, you need to understand the available mosquito control options in the market. In this article, you will have access to what we think are the best brands for homes, including the classic Burgess mosquito fogger and the Mosquito Magnet, to name a few.
Apart from sharing our recommended products, we have provided detailed information about mosquitoes herein, including tips and facts that could inspire you to take action today and protect your family, friends, yourself, and backyard barbecue is from harmful mosquitoes.
With Zika virus infections at an all-time high in the USA, you should know the effective mosquito control options rather than gambling with ineffective mosquito controls that will only let you down. The advent of technology has seen the development of useful products.
What is the Best Mosquito Killer?
The products we cover in this article are as follows:
How Does a Mosquito Trap Work?
The Mosquito Magnet is one of the most recommended products for clearing mosquito infestations at home. We have shared a video from the Discovery Channel elucidating how this novel product works and why the Mosquito Magnet can lure and kill mosquito better than other products in the market. Like humans, it generates carbon dioxide (Co2), tricking mosquitoes into attacking in search of blood for egg maturation.
Whenever the mosquito is in its vicinity, a powerful suction sucks it into a net, when it dies awaiting disposal.
This well-choreographed system is highly efficient, making it one of the best mosquito killers in the market in 2023. You can learn more about how Co2 mosquito traps work from the attached video below.
You will get more information about the Mosquito Magnet below
Mosquitoes + Best Mosquito Killers | Guide
Mosquitoes rein havoc globally, making them one of the most known insects to date. However, they are not famous for a good reason. They have frustrated humans since ancient times via their painful bites and the plethora of harmful infectious diseases that they spread.
To institute good pest management, knowledge is power. Make sure that learn more about the biology and ecology of such pests to know how their systems work. While mosquitoes might seem invincible to the naked eye, we have shared knowledge on how to outsmart them.
What do we know about the infamous mosquito? Is the insect as invincible as people think? We discuss the species that have cause havoc globally for centuries now herein.
The Mosquito
‘Mosquito’ is a word with Spanish origins loosely referring to ‘Little fly’. If you have seen of had an encounter a mosquito, you can attest that this annoying insect’s description is spot on. The mosquito looks like a smaller version of the fly with its unique, annoying habits. While the fly seeks food scraps, mosquitos suck human or animal blood.
Mosquitoes are annoying everywhere they go. However, the insect is diverse, as scientists have identified over 3000 species worldwide. The thought of having 3000 mosquitoes at home is mind jarring. Most people often shudder at the sight of one, let alone an army of 3000.
The Mosquito Bite
The female mosquito feeds on the blood of humans and other animals for egg maturation. They do not discriminate their pray as both invertebrates and vertebrates feel the pinch. Some species even bite and feed on fish, which is both funny and weird. Mosquitoes have tubular mouthparts, which pierce into the skin of victims to such blood. Mosquitoes are small and therefore suck a negligible amount of blood. However, the major health threat to humans/animals lies in their saliva.
The saliva of mosquitoes contains an anticoagulant that causes an itch as they feed. The chemical stops blood from clogging the thin proboscis of mosquitoes but us irritant, which is not fun.
Why is the saliva of mosquitoes dangerous? Our bodies have a native immune system that reacts to foreign bodies in the blood. The saliva of mosquitoes is a foreign matter, which the natural immunity of humans reacts to by producing histamines. Histamines dilate blood vessels, causing a swelling. Swelling activates nerve endings, which respond to the stimulus (saliva) and induce an itch. This chain of events manifests as a bump or an itchy wheal on the skin – or “The Mosquito bump.”
Mosquito Magnet Technology | Video
How Do Mosquitoes Hone in On Their Prey?
Mosquitoes use four critical stimuli to identify and hone in their prey.
- Body odors
- Exhaled Carbon dioxide
- Body temperature
- Movement
You should know that mosquitoes do not suck blood to nourish themselves. Female mosquitoes use the protein found in blood to nourish their eggs. Like the male mosquitoes, females nourish themselves from plant sugars, which they get from nectar.
Why The Mosquito Bite is our Focus?
The painful bite of mosquitoes is very annoying. It also irritates the skin, which is equally frustrating. This is an undisputed fact. If your friend disputes this, lock him or her in a room with mosquitoes and listen to what he or she will say the next day. I guarantee that they will be on the same page as us. Even though the world has enough space for both humans and mosquitoes, a few species of mosquitoes, mostly Anopheles, Culex, and Aedes, are a concern all over the world.
How do these three species of mosquitoes differ from the rest? First, unlike some species, the three are carriers for diseases. Here is a description of some of the commonest diseases the three transmit.
The Anopheles Mosquito
The Anopheles mosquito is renowned worldwide due to its ability to transmit plasmodium – a protozoon that causes malaria. However, apart plasmodium, it is an efficient transmitter of filarial worms, which impede the flow of lymph, causing encephalitis and elephantitis.
The Culex Mosquito
The Culex mosquito is not as famous as the Anopheles mosquito but can transmit many worms and parasites. Like the Anopheles mosquito, Culicines also spread filarial worms, causing Filariasis and Encephalitis. Moreover, they spread the West Nile virus.
The Aedes Mosquito
The Aedes mosquito transmits the Yellow Fever Virus and Dengue Virus, causing Yellow fever, Dengue fever, and Encephalitis. In recent years, it has made headlines for its ability to spread the Zika virus.
When Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Mosquito bites are painful and annoying to both adults and children. Moreover, with the number of diseases mosquitoes spread increasing by the day, there is a need for effective protective measures in homes and outdoor spaces such as patios. You should take action today.
People have experimented with multiple methods for protecting themselves and their family from mosquitoes. Here are some of the commonest methods employed in homes and commercial spaces.
Elimination of the Breeding Places
This is one of the easiest yet also the most complicated methods for controlling mosquito infestations in homes. The mode of action is relatively simple. If you eliminate the breeding areas for mosquitoes, you will have fewer insect to deal with at home. Unfortunately, because mosquitoes have multiple breeding areas, eliminating all is hard.
Stagnant/still water is one of the commonest breeding areas for mosquitoes. Therefore, to clear an infestation quickly, you should eliminate sites where water accumulates on your lawn. This is easy to say that do, though, especially in tropical areas that receive a lot of rain. If you reside in such a place, you will scout for new breeding sites every day, which is tiring in the end. The effort is worthwhile, though.
Exclusion
The thought process behind excluding mosquitoes is a simple one. All you have to do is remove mosquitoes from your living space and keep them out. Even though unorthodox, it has been in practice for decades and is currently one of the most popular techniques in homes. For instance, mosquito nets and window screen are common in homes as they are effective against adult stages of mosquitoes. Also, consider closing your window before dusk, as they are most active at this time.
Introduction of Biological Control
The food cycle is clear – plant and animals eat, and others eat them. Therefore, you will have a hard time removing all breeding spaces for mosquitoes in your vicinity, irrespective of your skill level. For instance, assume that you have a pond in your locality. To control mosquitoes, you can farm fish in the pond to eat the mosquito larvae and therefore slow down breeding. Fish is a good agent for population control as it breeds fast and feeds like a truck. Fewer larvae equal to fewer mosquitos.
Repellents
Mosquito repellents have grown in popularity over the years due to their innovative mode of operation. Depending on the type, they work differently. Creams, for instance, work directly on the skin. You can also get sprays covering a large area but do not deliver the personal protection that cream offers. The Center for Disease Control regulates the contents of such products to boost the safety of users. Some popular products in the niche include Eucalyptus and Picaridin oil.
The Best Mosquito Killer
Because the vector-borne diseases transmitted by mosquitoes increase by the day, the demand for the best mosquito killer on the market has also increased. Today, just repelling the mosquitoes or using barriers such as curtains is not enough. You will need the best mosquito killer in the market to protect you from the harmful disease that this tiny yet bothersome vector transmits. We have some of the best herein.
Many accessories come to mind about mosquito killers, but the Mosquito Magnet is one of the best due to its efficacy and ease of use.
Mosquito Magnet | Best Mosquito Killer
The Mosquito Magnet has developed four variants of this mosquito killer, all readily available online. All most can clear heavy mosquito infestations with little effort from users. They vary in size and have versatile, feature-rich designs that satisfy the needs of most people. Here is a sneak peek of the four Mosquito Magnet mosquito killers:
Four Mosquito Magnet Models:
- Patriot (MM4100) | Best Value
- Independence (MM3200)
- Executive (MM3300)
Patriot MM4100 | Mosquito Magnet | Most Popular
The Patriot model (MM4100) is a cost-effective Mosquito Magnet that has grown in popularity to date. Even though effective, Mosquito Magnet is a costly product that is beyond the reach of some people. However, you are getting a well-engineered mosquito killer that can withstand abuse for long. Their smart designs deliver the best results.
If you are passive, a mosquito can take over your life and make it miserable. They are a nuisance because of their loud hum and painful bites and carry many diseases, which is a concern. The
Zika virus, for instance, featured in many news bulletins over spring and summer, particularly in North and South America.
Later in this article, we have provided links to scientific studies to download and learn how effective the Mosquito Magnet works. Many manufacturers claim falsely that their products are the best, but, in this case, this is true. It has a scientifically sound design that works well, earning it the ‘best mosquito killer’ title. In one study, for instance, the Mosquito Magnet “…caught at least 365% more mosquitoes than the closest non- Mosquito Magnet competitor.”
Features:
- Lures and traps mosquitoes and most other biting insects.
- Easy to maintain – refill its propane tank and change its consumables (net (if necessary) and attractant cartridge) every 21 days.
- The Self-contained net traps and kills insects on contact.
- Can work safely for up to 24 hours issue-free.
- It has a patented Mosquito Magnet catalytic converter that converts propane into carbon dioxide (CO2), moisture, and heat, to simulate a human’s presence.
- Backed by 20 years of scientific research and has over 15 patents.
- A patented Counterflow Technology lures, captures, and controls mosquitoes.
- The silent and odorless system has a dual-tone design that attracts more mosquitoes.
- Its heavy-duty design (all-weather) is easy to assemble and has a reinforced base that lasts for many years.
- Have wheels that boost the mobility of the device anywhere around your home.
- Has an exclusive Mosquito Magnet Customer Support Program.
Video | See the Mosquito Magnet in Action
Patriot Mosquito Magnet | Overview
The Patriot is, by far, one of the most reputable mosquito killers due to its small size and cost-effectiveness. Of the four models that we have reviewed herein, the Patriot is the smallest Mosquito Magnet mosquito killer. You also get one of the cheapest devices around.
How does it work?
If we have stated before, carbon dioxide is an attractant for mosquitoes. Moreover, they can detect heat and the moisture that the body emits in their hunt for veins and blood. The Patriot uses this information to attract mosquitoes, capture them, and kill them safely.
Once set up, the trap generates carbon dioxide, heat, and moisture. In the eyes of mosquitoes, this combination mimics mammals, which makes them good attractants. The mosquitos follow the heat and smell to the trap, where a vacuum sucks them into a receptacle with a rigid net. Finally, mosquitoes dehydrate and ultimately die in a few hours.
Patriot Assembly Video | Mosquito Magnet
What are the best features of this product?
- Its odorless and silent design functions well without overwhelming users.
- Have an efficient net trap for mosquitoes and other small, biting insects.
- The trap is easy to use.
- The manual shows how to use the trap for up to 24 hours without a break. As such, its premium design can break the breeding cycles/habits of mosquitoes, clearing infestations.
- The placement of this mosquito kicker is critical. It works the best if you position it upwind of mosquitoes. This way, the wind pushes mosquitoes towards the trap where its traps and kill them quickly.
- The device has a 50-foot power cord with yard clips for security. Therefore, it rarely tangles while in use, making it easy to use.
- The Patriot can cover an area measuring up to one acre.
The net not only traps mosquitoes but also eases their disposal after trapping and killing. The Mosquito Magnet works seamlessly off the shelf but tends to deliver noticeable results seven days to four weeks. Set it up early in the season to cover a larger area and get better results.
For the best results, you should operate this mosquito trap 24 hours a day to disrupt mosquitoes’ breeding cycle in your garden or yard.
Independence MM3200 | Mosquito Magnet
This model (Independence MM3200) has a similar design with the Patriot model. Its attractant is a combination of carbon monoxide, heat, and moisture. Like the Patriot model, the Independence model traps mosquitoes in a built-in net where they dehydrate and die.
However, a few features set the Independence MM3200 apart from the Patriot mosquito killer:
- You get a medium-sized net for trapping vacuumed mosquitoes. Change the nest every 21 days to clean dead mosquitoes and prevent clogging.
- It uses four C batteries and is therefore 100% cordless. As such, you will never worry about tripping on wires or cables as you use it. The wireless design also looks cleaner and thus stylish on yards.
- You will replace the batteries a few times in a season, so prepare yourself. Fortunately, by removing the cord, the company offers you a cleaner-looking and versatile product that works well in most settings. However, like the Patriot, placement is critical.
- The Independence model can withstand harsh outdoor weather without structural damage. Expect years of excellent service.
- Like the Patriot, Independence covers approximately one acre.
Video | Tune-up your Independence Mosquito Magnet
With four mosquito killers to choose, evaluate your needs and use them to guide your choice while buying one. For instance, will you need a cordless mosquito killer at home? The Independence is a famous cordless model with a durable, outdoor-rated design that works well I most settings. You will never worry about electric cords while using this one. Unfortunately, you pay slightly more compared to the Patriot.
Which other features stand out? You get a larger net that can trap many mosquitoes. Moreover, you have to empty it less often compared to other models. Be honest about your needs and buy the best model.
Executive MM3300 | Mosquito Magnet
The Executive is the final model in our Mosquito magnet series. To trap and kill mosquitoes, the Executive uses the same principle as the model also functions based on the same principle. It mimics the heat and carbon dioxide emitted from mammals to attract the mosquito closer to it. This model too captures the mosquito using a rigid net.
Let us look at what is different from the Executive MM3300:
- It has a rechargeable battery that retains charge well and lasts for years.
- Smart Fuel-Saving Technology boosts its overall efficacy, saving you money in the end.
- Monitors its system and tells you when to replace the net, attractant, propane tank, or battery or if it has a clogged nozzle.
- The device has a larger net size.
- It is set up and has a heavy-duty design that lasts for long. Thus, when exposed to harsh weather conditions, it does not break down as quickly as some comparable brands do.
- Its wheeled design is portable and therefore, effortless to use.
- Has a broad coverage of approximately one acre.
How the Technology Works to Kill Mosquitoes
Smart Technology
Why is this system useful? Well, mosquitoes are the most active at temperatures above 50°F, often at dawn. Because of its Smart Technology, the Mosquito Magnet Executive trap can automatically adjust its external conditions to maximize attraction. This maximizes mosquito control while dramatically lowering propane use and the attractant when the mosquitoes are the least active at home.
Video | Executive Assembly and Start-up
Fuel Saving Modes
The Executive M3300 had an LCD panel with four fuel-saving modes that you can select. Via the system, you can set the device to shut down at dawn and restart at your preferred time without touching it. As such, you can optimize propane use over 24 hours while maximizing control.
The Mosquito Magnet has a range of sensors that sends a range of information to the LCD panel to help you to manage it. Therefore, unlike some brands, you do not have to micro-manage its system to keep it working optimally. You will know when to replace the net and attract, or when the propane tank is empty, or the battery has run out of charge. You will also see when the system has a clog to repair.
Commander MM3400 | Mosquito Magnet
The Commander Model has a patented system that works better than the three Mosquito magnet models we have reviewed. You are getting a top of the line product with better specifications than the rest of the Mosquito Magnet traps reviewed herein. However, you will dig deeper in your pocket to own one. Here is what the Commander offers:
- It has an easy-to-use rechargeable battery. The battery also has a portable design (light), eliminating the need for power cables.
- The net for trapping mosquitoes is large.
- Has coverage of over an acre.
- A smart, fuel-saving option makes it environment friendly.
- Wireless technology provides status updates via text messages and emails.
Mosquito Magnet Attractants
Attractants are efficient at luring, trapping, and killing mosquitoes. You can find multiple effective models for different mosquito species. Does this sound complicated? Well, it is not. Here is a video that can help you to know how attractants from Mosquito Magnet offer these benefits.
The best attractants come in different designs and sizes for different areas. As we showed earlier, you should worry about three main species of mosquitoes – Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex
Three Main Attractants for the Mosquito Magnet:
- Octenol: Uses a chemical attractant found in sweat and breath to lure mosquitoes and other biting insects.
- R-Octenol: Like Octenol, it can attract mosquitos and other biting insects such as no-see-ums. However, it is better than regular Octenol because its active ingredient lasts up to 40% longer (around 30 days).
- Lurex3: Is mimics the scent of human skin to attract mosquitoes and clear infestations quickly. Mosquitoes can be finicky. However, Lurex3 can lure, trap, and kill hard-to-catch mosquito species, including the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus.
You will need Octenol, R-Octenol, or Lurex3 if you are in the United States from the map below. You can use Lurex3l as mosquitoes south of the border Mosquitoes cross over in the southern US but do not follow the law. Barriers such as wall and curtains also often fail to help.
The map might be hard to read, but all residents of coastal regions should use Octenol or R-Octenol, as many species of mosquitoes breed along the coast of the USA.
If you decide to order from Amazon, you will access different bundles for different USA regions to review and choose the best. Take advantage of these bundles, as they offer people value for money.
Scientifically Proven | Most Effective Mosquito Trap
Many scientific studied have shown that the Mosquito Magnet is by far one of the best mosquito killers. We have provided links below that you can follow to view or download them. Most of these studies reference older Mosquito Magnet models, including “Defender” and “Liberty.”
The data shows that the Mosquito Magnet was the best brand of mosquito killers ten years ago. The technology has grown ever since.
View or download the Independent Tests:
- Mosquito Magnet — Hawaii
- Mosquito Magnet — Ft Myers – July 2004
- Mosquito Magnet — Atsena Otie Key – Florida
- Mosquito Magnet — Ft Myers – April 2004
- Mosquito Magnet — Cayman Islands Mosquito Research & Control Unit
Learn more about Mosquito Magnet Mosquito Traps by visiting their website. It has useful information and statistics that will answer all questions you might have about this dependable traps line.
The wide range of videos shared on the manufacturer’s website is equally beneficial, as they provide more information on this subject, and therefore can help guide your decisions. You should expect good results from a Mosquito Magnet trap if you have a mosquito infestation. It is the best control measure to date.
Mosquito Fogger | Propane & Electric
The fogger is another excellent product for getting rid of at home. Even though its mode of action varies from Mosquito magnet devices, its value is fantastic. The mosquito fogger has a chemical spray that fogs up the area with mosquitoes, killing them instantly. Even though it offers a temporary solution to mosquito infestations, it is best for “treating” large homes and commercial areas.
Foggers are of two broad types. Cold foggers require electricity to work. You will need access to an electrical outlet every time you are using one. Thus, although beneficial in small areas, they are not portable.
Video | Overview of the Burgess Mosquito Foggers
On the other hand, thermal foggers use a heating coil to convert the liquid insecticide into a vapor, which it releases as smoke or mist. They do not use electricity and are thus portable and easy to use.
Burgess 1443 Propane | Insect Mosquito Fogger
What is thermal fogger? This device uses heat from combustion to release a mist or fog of insecticides.
Features:
- Propane-based residential mosquito fogger.
- Has a portable design that you can take anywhere, including camping, unlike electric fogger that needs an electric connection.
- Mosquito Foggers kill flies and mosquitoes on contact and offer up to 6 hours of bug control.
- Beneficial during backyard picnics, outdoor parties, barbeques, special events, and pool parties.
- Depending on the size, it can fog a large area in less than 10 minutes.
- Compatible with tall propane canisters like the Benzomatic TX8.
- Releases a 10-inch cone of odorless and eco-friendly fog that kills mosquitoes and other biting insects instantly.
Download of view the Burgess Propane Fogger’s MANUAL.
Overview | Burgess Mosquito Fogger
Talking about the best mosquito foggers, no list is complete without the Burgess 1443 Propane Insect fogger. It is a prime example of foggers that can control mosquitoes all over the world swiftly and safely. For instance, in developing countries, they are for part of malaria control programs due to their efficacy, low cost, and ease of use.
Needs a Tall Style (14.1 ounces) Propane Cylinder
The major drawback of using a fogger is that they offer a temporary fix to mosquito infestations at home. While in use, it can kill all mosquitoes within its range. However, after around six hours, the chemical loses its efficacy, enabling mosquitoes to repopulate the area you have treated.
Before choosing a mosquito killer, it is good to weigh its pros and cons versus other available options. Products such as the Mosquito Magnet lure and kill biting insects such as mosquitoes 24/7, disrupting their breeding cycles in the end, while products such as Mosquito Bits and Dunks kill larvae to stop mosquitoes taking flight. My preference is to adopt multiple control methods instead of using just one product.
Mosquito killers are long-term investments that will serve you well for decades, so cost should not be a limitation or problem. The best brands can last for many years, making the high initial investment worthwhile.
Burgess 982 Thermo-Fogger | Electric Mosquito Fogger
The Burgess 982 is a powerful electric thermal fogger (professional-grade) that supports a range of applications, including fire and flood restoration, insect control, and odor control using deodorizers.
Features:
- Effective insect fogger: Can kill and repel mosquitoes, flying insects, and biting files for up to 6 hours.
- Has a powerful electric pump.
- Its professional-grade system kills mosquitoes, which often transmit the West Nile virus and the Zika virus.
- Has a removable heating element with 110V power supply.
- Insecticides formulated for thermal fogging. These include water and oil based solutions with propylene glycol.
- The commercial-grade fogger is suitable for flood and fire recovery and can eliminate mildew and pet odor.
Download or view the Burgess 982 electric fogger’s MANUAL.
Troubleshooting Video | Burgess 982
How Does the Burgess Electric Fogger Work?
When you pull the trigger of this fogger, its electric pump ejects fluid under pressure through an atomizing brass nozzle and a heating chamber (thermostatically controlled) in the barrel. Inside the chamber, chemicals vaporize immediately and shoot out of the tip as a cloud/fog.
A top-rated fogger such as the Burgess 982 Thermo-Fogger reduces the chemicals in insecticides into microscopic particles around 15 microns thick (a micron is the same as 1/25,000 of an inch). For reference, the droplets in a mist measure around 50-125 microns, while the droplets of a regular spray are approximately 125 microns thick. Because the Burgess 982 Fogger generates minuscule atoms, the fog floats on air easily and covers every nook and cranny to clear mosquito infestations.
Burgess 960 | Affordable Electric Fogger
If you need an affordable electric fogger or your home, I prefer Burgess 960. The reputable mosquito fogger is cost-effective and therefore, accessible by most people. Unfortunately, because of its electric system, you will need an extension cord to use it. Therefore, if you have a large yard with a heavy infestation, you will have better results with a propane fogger. However, you should know that you could use your portable generator to power this renowned electric fogger. Both options are ideal so buy a product that meets your needs.
Download of view the Burgess 960’s MANUAL.
Recommended Insecticides for the Burgess Thermal Fogger.
The Black Flag Fogging Insecticide works seamlessly in a Burgess fogger. It has an odorless formula that transforms into a light fog, dissipating in the air in a few minutes. Therefore, you can use the insecticide safely before guests arrive for your backyard party.
Features:
- You do not mix this insecticide – pour it directly into the fogger from the bottle.
- Use it early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the wind is calm, and mosquito activity is peak.
- Fog ground covers, shrubs, and lawn areas thoroughly.
- The product is for outdoor use only. Do not use it in enclosed spaces or indoors.
While fogging, wear a pesticide respirator to protect you from toxic chemicals.
Professional ULV Tri-Jet Fogger | Insect Fogger | Non-Thermal
What is a non-thermal fogger (or cold fogger)? This product can atomize water and oil-based insecticides without heat.
The Tri-Jet ULV fogger is suitable for chemical fogging (IE. Mosquito Control) or controlling humidity. It has a robust, stainless steel structure that lasts for long time. It also has an adjustable valve and a two-stage triple valve that shoots a thin mist of insecticides up to 30 feet. This product supports oil/water-based insecticides and works outdoors and indoors.
Tri-Jet ULV fogger is durable, quiet, and easy to use.
Includes: Power Supply Cord (110V or 220V, Intake Filter, Triple Action Nozzle, Heavy Duty Motor, Five-Year Warranty, and Instructions.
Download or View: STUDY: Field comparison of thermal and non-thermal foggers.
Applications:
- Flying and Biting Insects
- Pest Control
- Humidity/Mold Control (Use Concrobium)
- Odor Control
- Disinfects
- Sanitizes
In addition, this is one of the best products for fumigating air ducts and can solve a range of issues everywhere, including the attic, your basement, a barn, a business establishment, or a warehouse. You get a versatile thermal fogger than handles more than mosquito control.
Mosquito Bits & Mosquito Dunks | Mosquito Prevention
✓ We have provided a brief overview of “Bits” and “Dunks” herein. However, for a comprehensive breakdown of these mosquito killers or detailed information on mosquitoes, you should consider reading our detailed article on Mosquito Bits & Dunks.
Mosquito Bits
Mosquito bits work the best in damp or swampy areas teeming with mosquito larvae. Therefore, with a new pack, you will be able to control mosquitoes efficiently via the “quick killing” chemicals in the product. These ‘bits’ are corn cob granules with a BTI coat – a chemical that can decimate mosquito populations quickly, safely.
Apart from mosquitoes, The Mosquito Bits can kill Fungus Gnats in pots and plant beds via the same mode of action for killing larvae. Sprinkle the bits in potting soil before planting your vegetables or fruits to kill fungus gnat larvae efficiently and safely. Even though toxic to gnats and mosquito larvae, it does not harm animals, including humans.
Unlike foggers, mosquito dunks offer long-term control of mosquitoes. According to the manufacturer, use them every week to have outstanding results, but a two-week interval might be useful as well. You should decide how to use the product. It works well in ponds and stagnant water and keeps killing for several weeks, offering long-term control.
- Download or View the Original Press Release for Mosquito Bits.
- Download or View Material Data and Safety Sheet for Mosquito Bits.
Mosquito Dunks | Ponds and Standing Water
The israelensis subspecies of Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.i.) is the active ingredient of Mosquito Dunks. The bacterium infects and kills mosquito larvae almost instantly, but it 100% safe for other living beings.
How do Mosquito Dunks Work?
Mosquito Dunks contain biodegradable ingredients that work well in ponds, water troughs, rain barrels, birdbaths, and most other places where water collects and stagnates for long in summer or spring. When a mosquito lays eggs on the water with the dunks, larvae emerge and eat Bti, killing them before transforming them into pupae and adults.
You can get more information on the Mosquito Dunk from the manufacturer’s fact sheet (FAQ).
Flowtron Electronic Insect Killers
NOTE: The Flowtron bug zappers can eradicate mosquitoes and other biting insects from your yard and home. This note clarifies the point I made prior because of my love for this fantastic product. Bugs are different. For instance, Mosquitoes identify their prey using carbon dioxide and not light, making carbon dioxide-based traps such as the CO2 Mosquito Magnet trap effective at eliminating them. Therefore, because Flowtron models use light as an attractant, it is effective against moths and bees, but not mosquitoes – unless you order a model that uses octenol cartridges.
Flowtron Bug Zappers include:
- Flowtron BK-15D | 0.5 Acre — 15 Watts.
- Flowtron BK-40D | 1 Acre — 40 Watts.
- Flowtron BK-80D | 1.5 Acres — 80 Watts.
NOTE: Use these electric mosquito killers to clear infestations outdoors. They are unsafe to use indoors, though.
Flowtron Insect zappers have grown in popularity over the years even though they are not suitable for killing mosquitoes. Here is why:
These traps are not effective at killing biting insects (female mosquitoes and other insects), being much more effective at attracting and killing other harmless and beneficial insects. A study by the University of Delaware showed that throughout 15 summer nights, six devices killed 13,789 insects. Of those insects killed only 31 were biting insects. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and water vapor in the breath of mammals, not ultraviolet light. However, there are now bug zappers that emit carbon dioxide or use external bait, such as octenol, to attract biting insects into the light better. [Wikipedia]
To boost Flowtron products’ efficacy at killing mosquitoes, consider buying a product that uses an octenol attractant. These are affordable and therefore suitable for people who are looking to clear mosquito infestations on a budget. Unfortunately, without octenol, you will not kill mosquitoes with this product. It never works.
Flowtron MA-1000-6 Octenol Cartridges | Mosquito Trap
Common features among all three Flowtron models:
- Patented and high efficiency killing grid that does not clog easily.
- Transformer-powered killing grid (Vertical Rod).
- FREE USDA-tested Octenol attractant for mosquitoes in a slow-release cartridge.
- Weatherproof and rugged polycarbonate shell that does not fade crack, not rusts.
- Bulbs are easy to replace — no tools needed.
- Efficient design costs pennies per day.
- Two-year limited warranty.
First Bug Zapper from 1911
The first patent for an insect zapper was in 1934 — several years after two men developed the 1911 prototype in Denver, Colorado. In the beginning, the zapper was expensive to build. View the patent from the official 1934 patent: Insect exterminator US 1962439 — filed by William F. Folmer and Harrison L. Chapin, from Rochester, New York
It is interesting how the design of the original bug zapper mimics Flowtron bug zappers. The design is over 80 years old and is not as sophisticated as modern bug zappers such as CO2 Mosquito Magnet.
Aspectek Indoor Mosquito Killer | 20W | Electronic Bug Zapper
If you are shopping for an efficient bug zapper that works seamlessly indoors, this is one of the most popular options to date.
Features:
- Kills mosquitoes and other biting flying insects instantly.
- Safe to use indoors in homes, hospitals, workplaces, and kitchens.
- 6,000 square foot coverage.
- Chemical-free pest control method.
- Removable/washable collection tray.
- Instantaneous operation – works uninterrupted for long.
What is the Best Mosquito Killer? The Mosquito Trap?
Keeping your home free from mosquitoes should be a priority. Many of us often forget that prevention is better than cure with disastrous results. Apart from being a nuisance to humans, Mosquitoes are health hazards associated with suffering and death all over the globe. Take the appropriate steps for protecting yourself from the menace.
With Malaria, Zika, and Dengue fever, causing havoc in homes and commercial area, you will need a useful yet cost-effective product that can keep you safe every day. Cost should not be a bother because the cost of treating diseases such as Malaria can be astronomical.
Recommended Reading on Mosquitoes
To boost your knowledge of Mosquitoes, you should check out: Mosquito: A Natural History of Our Most Persistent and Deadly Foe
This fascinating book educates readers on a range of topics including how mosquitoes breed, the manmade and natural enemies of mosquitoes, and how they die. It also covers the diseases they spread.
The author, Andrew Spielman, shared exciting stories about mosquitoes. He also shares anecdotes and facts that will educate you on mosquitoes’ ecology and how the insect has grown in popularity over the years for all the wrong reasons. If mosquitoes fascinate you or you are in love with science, you will appreciate getting this book.
The World’s Deadliest Animals
Every year, mosquitoes kill more humans than any other animal on earth. Therefore, if you live in a mosquito hotspot and worry about your safety or the safety of your family, prioritize Mosquito control.
We have recommended several products that can help you to control mosquito infestations quickly and safely. We have also outlined what we think are the best mosquito killers for the money to help you make an informed choice. Therefore, it is up to you to decide how you intend to clear the mosquito infestation you have at home. We hope that scientists will find a way of eradicating them in the future.
Additional Resources on Mosquitoes and Mosquito Control
- Mosquito-related questions (American Mosquito Control Association)
- Mosquito Control (EPA) | United States Environmental Protection Agency
- How to Repel Mosquitoes | Mother Earth News