When you think you have a bed bug infestation, trying to figure out what product to use can be complicated and frustrating. As we know, bed bugs are persistent pests that can infest homes, causing distress and discomfort to adults, children, and even pets. To fight these unwelcomed intruders, we look at two popular products developed to combat them, the bed bug glue traps and bed bug interceptors.

We will compare and contrast these two popular options, examining their functions, usage, effectiveness, and limitations.

 So you are informed on what will work best in your living environment. 

Comparing Bed Bug Glue Traps vs. Bed Bug

Bed Bug Glue Traps

What Are Bed Bug Glue Traps?

Bed bug glue traps are adhesive based devices designed to trap and immobilize bed bugs. They consist of a flat surface covered with a sticky adhesive that bed bugs get stuck to when they come into contact with it.

How Do Bed Bug Traps Work?

These glue traps utilize the bed bugs’ natural behavior, enticing them to climb onto the traps where they become stuck. Bed bug glue traps act as a monitoring tool, helping to detect the presence of bed bugs and determine the extent of an infestation. 

This tool is helpful and can be incorporated with other bed bug treatments to see how effective the removal process is. 

Where to Put Bed Bug Glue Traps?

Bed bug glue traps should be placed strategically, close to areas where bed bugs are known to travel or hide.

• Along the bed frame: Placing the traps along the bed frame can intercept bed bugs as they move between their hiding spots and the bed.
• Under the bed: Placing traps under the beds can capture bed bugs hiding in the seams or crevices.
• Near furniture legs: Bed bugs often travel along furniture legs, so placing traps near these areas can help catch them.
• Around the headboard: Bed bugs may hide in the headboard, making it a suitable location for trap placement.
• Near baseboards: Baseboards can serve as entry points for bed bugs, so placing traps along them can help intercept their movement.

Remember, proper placement is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of bed bug glue traps in monitoring and reducing their population. 

They can be used in conjunction with other pest control methods, providing valuable information about the presence and disruption of bed bugs. If the infestation is large, use the bugs captured and show them to a professional pest control company.

How Effective Are Bed Bug Traps?

Bed bug glue traps are primarily used for monitoring purposes and are less effective as a standalone treatment method. Bed bug glue traps are effective for monitoring bed bugs but should be used alongside other pest control methods, like bed bug Interceptors.

They can help in early detection and can be useful in reducing the bed bug population, but they are unlikely to eradicate an infestation on their own.

What Are the Limitations?

Bed bug glue traps have limitations in terms of their effectiveness as a treatment method. They do not address the root cause of the infestation and may only capture a fraction of the bed bugs present. Additionally, bed bugs can develop resistance to the adhesive, rendering the traps less effective over time.

Who Should Bed Bug Glue Traps?

Bed bug glue traps can be used by homeowners, renters, or anyone dealing with a suspected or confirmed bed bug infestation. 

They are particularly beneficial for individuals who want to monitor and detect the presence of bed bugs in their homes.  

 If the infestation is severe or persistent, it may be advisable to seek professional assistance from pest control experts.

Bed Bug Interceptors

What Is a Bed Bug Interceptor?

Bed bug interceptors are specially designed devices that create a barrier between the bed and the floor, preventing bed bugs from climbing up onto the bed. They consist of a plastic or metal dish-shaped container with outer walls and an inner well that bed bugs fall into. 

Interceptors may not fit specific bed frames, couches or other furniture because of the way they are built.  

How Does a Bed Bug Interceptor Work?

Bed bug interceptors do not typically kill bed bugs. Bed bug interceptors are designed to create a barrier between the bed or furniture legs and the floor, preventing bed bugs from climbing up onto the bed or furniture. When bed bugs attempt to climb up or down the legs, they get trapped inside the interceptor’s well, making it easier to detect their presence.

While bed bug interceptors alone may not eliminate a bed bug infestation, they can be an effective tool in reducing the bed bug population by preventing them from reaching their hosts and limiting their movement. Combining interceptors with other treatment methods, such as insecticides or heat treatments, is usually necessary to completely eradicate the infestation.

Why Is Using an Interceptor Useful?

Bed bug interceptors are useful for both monitoring and control purposes.  

Using a bed bug interceptor is useful for several reasons:

1. Detection: Interceptors help in detecting the presence of bed bugs. By placing them under the legs of beds or furniture, they act as a monitoring tool. If bed bugs are present in the area, they will get trapped inside the interceptor’s well, indicating their presence.
2. Monitoring infestation level: Bed bug interceptors provide valuable information about the extent of the infestation. By checking the interceptors regularly, you can assess the number of bed bugs caught and track any changes over time. This information helps determine the effectiveness of treatment methods and evaluate the progress of elimination efforts by you are a professional exterminator.
3. Prevention: Interceptors act as a barrier, preventing bed bugs from climbing up onto beds or furniture. By creating an obstacle between the bugs and potential hosts, such as sleeping individuals, interceptors can help prevent bites and reduce the likelihood of bed bugs spreading throughout the home.
4. Isolation: Bed bug interceptors help isolate bed bugs and limit their movement. By trapping the bugs in the interceptor’s well, they become unable to access beds or other furniture, effectively reducing their population and limiting their ability to spread.
5. Integration with treatment methods: Bed bug interceptors can be used in conjunction with other bed bug treatment methods, such as insecticide application or heat treatments. By using interceptors alongside these treatments, you can enhance their effectiveness and increase the chances of successful elimination.

How to Use Bed Bug Interceptors?

Bed bug interceptors are placed beneath the legs of the bed or furniture. The legs should be positioned in the center of the interceptor’s well to maximize effectiveness. Regular inspection and cleaning of the interceptors are necessary to ensure their continued functionality.

How Effective Are Bed Bug Interceptors?

Bed bug interceptors can be highly effective in trapping and monitoring bed bugs. They can help to limit the bed bugs’ access to hosts and reduce their population over time. However, interceptors alone may not completely eliminate a bed bug infestation and should be used in conjunction with other control methods.

What Are the Limitations?

While bed bug interceptors are valuable tools, they have limitations. The interceptors may not capture bed bugs that are already present on the bed or furniture as they are already in close proximity. Also, bed bugs can find alternative pathways or harborages to avoid the interceptors.

Who should use Bed Bug Interceptors?

Bed bug interceptors can be used by anyone who wants to prevent or detect bed bug infestations. They are particularly useful for the following individuals:

1. Homeowners and renters: People living in houses, apartments, or other residential settings can use bed bug interceptors to monitor for bed bugs and prevent them from accessing beds or furniture.
2. Hotels and accommodations: Bed bug interceptors are commonly used in the hospitality industry to monitor and prevent bed bug infestations. Placing interceptors under the legs of beds in hotel rooms can help detect bed bugs early and prevent their spread to other rooms.
3. Travelers: Individuals who frequently travel or stay in hotels can use bed bug interceptors to create a protective barrier for their luggage and personal belongings. Placing interceptors under the legs of beds in hotel rooms can help prevent bed bugs from hitchhiking back home with travelers.
4. Pest control professionals: Bed bug interceptors are also utilized by pest control professionals as part of their inspection and treatment protocols. They aid in monitoring infestations, assessing treatment effectiveness, and providing ongoing protection.

A variety of people can use bed bug interceptors. They are a valuable tool for preventing and detecting bed bug infestations, helping to ensure early intervention and effective control measures.

Chart Comparing Bed Bug Interceptors and Bed Bug Glue Traps

Product Suggestions for Bed Bug Interceptors & Bed Bug Glue Traps

Discover the ultimate bed bug solution! Our experts have thoroughly researched and handpicked the best bed bug interceptors and glue traps. We’re excited to share our findings and recommend top-notch products that will exceed your expectations in combating bed bug problems. Keep reading to find the perfect solution for your needs.

ECOPEST Bed Bug Interceptor

The company that we have found that is very popular but also has a variation of sizes and shapes interceptors is Eco Pest Supply.

ECOPEST Bed Bug Blocker (Pro) – the ultimate solution for 24/7 bed bug detection and protection. Designed with heavy-duty construction, this versatile interceptor fits most furniture and beds, ensuring effective elimination of bed bug infestations. 

Its eco-friendly design offers a pesticide-free solution, making it safe for your home and loved ones. With a quick and easy setup, simply place the traps under furniture legs and let the Bed Bug Blocker (Pro) do the rest, trapping bed bugs while preventing their escape. Experience peace of mind and a bug-free environment with the ECOPEST Bed Bug Blocker (Pro).

Pros 

• Heavy-duty design: Resistant to cracking for long-lasting use.
• Versatile placement: Can be placed on carpets for convenience.
• Discreet packaging: Arrives in a generic package for added privacy.
• Pet and family safe: No harm to pets or family members.
• Reusable: Can be used multiple times for ongoing protection.
• Chemical-free: No harmful chemicals or pesticides involved.
• 100% satisfaction guarantee: Ensures customer satisfaction.

Cons:

Not a variety of colors to select from.

Check Price:

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Harris Bed Bug Glue Traps

This is another product that has a lot of satisfied customers.

Harris Bed Bug Glue Trap a reliable and effective tool for capturing and monitoring bed bugs in your home. This ready-to-use trap features a sticky adhesive surface that prevents bed bugs from escaping. With its compact and foldable design, it can be easily placed near bed legs and furniture where bed bugs are likely to travel or hide. Regular inspection ensures optimal effectiveness, providing an affordable and valuable solution for bed bug control.

Pros:

• Easy to use: Clear instructions and quick setup.
• Effective monitoring: Early detection and monitoring of bed bug activity.
• Pesticide-free: Safe and reduces health risks.
• Odorless & Non-Staining: Does not produce odors or leave stains.

Cons:

The traps rely on visual inspection to detect bed bugs or their fecal matter, which may not always be visible, especially in the early stages of an infestation.

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What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are tiny, brownish bugs that live in places where people stay, like bedrooms, mattresses, pillows, luggage and hotels. They like to eat the blood of animals, especially humans. 

Bed Bugs sense us by detecting the carbon dioxide (“CO2”) coming from our lungs as we breathe and sensing our body chemicals.

Even though bed bugs are small, a mommy bug can lay hundreds of eggs, and they can quickly take over a home. At first, you might only notice a few bites and not think much of it. But as more bugs come, the problem gets worse. Bed bugs can spread all over the house and hide in places that are hard to reach because of their flat bod shape.

Signs That Bed Bugs Are In Your Home

Here are some signs that bed bugs may be present in your home:

1. Bed bug bites: If you wake up with itchy, red bites you didn’t have before going to bed, it could be a sign of bed bug activity.
2. Bloodstains on sheets and bedding: Bed bugs feed on blood, so you may notice small bloodstains on your sheets or pillowcases.
3. Dark or rusty spots on bedding or walls: These spots are actually bed bug excrement (Poop), and they may appear on sheets, mattresses, walls, or furniture.
4. Shed bed bug skins: They shed their old skins as bed bugs grow. Look for tiny, translucent shells where bed bugs may hide, such as mattress seams or cracks in furniture.
5. Foul odor: Bed bugs release a musty, sweet odor from their scent glands. If you notice an unpleasant smell in your bedroom, it could be a sign of an infestation.
6. Live bed bugs: Bed bugs are small and flat, about the size of an apple seed. Seeing live bugs crawling on your mattress, furniture, or walls is a clear sign of their presence.
7. Bed bug eggs: Bed bug eggs are tiny and white, about the size of a pinhead. They may be found in clusters or individually, usually in hidden areas such as mattress seams, bed frames, or cracks and crevices.

If you notice any of these signs, take action to address the bed bug infestation immediately. Consult with a pest control professional to effectively treat and eliminate bed bugs from your home.

Conclusion

Bed bug glue traps and bed bug interceptors are effective tools in the battle against bed bug infestations, each with its own advantages and limitations. Glue traps are primarily used for monitoring purposes, providing valuable information about the presence and distribution of bed bugs. On the other hand, interceptors act as barriers, preventing bed bugs from accessing beds and furniture. When combined with other control methods, these tools can significantly contribute to reducing bed bug populations and limiting their spread. However, it is important to acknowledge their limitations and consider comprehensive approaches for effective bed bug management.