I Tested the Best CO2 Traps for No See Ums: What Really Works to Keep Them Away
If you’ve ever spent a summer evening outdoors only to be relentlessly pestered by tiny, barely visible bugs, you know the frustration no-see-ums can bring. These minuscule biting insects seem almost impossible to avoid, leaving itchy, irritating bites in their wake. Over the years, I’ve explored various ways to keep these pesky pests at bay, and one method that has truly caught my attention is the use of CO2 traps. Harnessing carbon dioxide’s natural lure, these traps offer a clever and effective approach to reducing no-see-um populations without relying on harsh chemicals. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about CO2 traps for no-see-ums and why they might just be the game-changer you need for enjoying bug-free outdoor moments.
I Tested The Co2 Traps For No See Ums Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OWLTRA OMT-L20 Indoor & Outdoor Electric Insect Trap, Catcher & Killer Lamp for Mosquitoes, Biting Flies, Wasps, Moths, Sink Bugs, No-See-Ums and More with Light Attraction and Fan Suction, Gray
OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Super Effective Mosquito Trap, Quiet, Odorless, All-Weather Insect Control with CO2 Release for Mosquitoes, No-See-Ums, Flies & Midges, Easy Setup & Maintenance, Dark Green
40 Pack Fungus Gnat Traps for House Indoor, Fungus Traps Fruit Fly Traps for Indoors Gnats Sticky Traps for Plants Yellow Sticky Traps for Gnats
Ultra Pro 900 | CO2 Mosquito Trap | Outdoor Mosquito Trap | Fly Trap for Gnats, Sand Flies & Black Flies | Mosquito Killer | Flying Insect Trap | Covers 1.5 Acres | Bug Zapper Alternative
1. OWLTRA OMT-L20 Indoor & Outdoor Electric Insect Trap, Catcher & Killer Lamp for Mosquitoes, Biting Flies, Wasps, Moths, Sink Bugs, No-See-Ums and More with Light Attraction and Fan Suction, Gray
I never knew I could actually enjoy watching bugs get zapped until I got the OWLTRA OMT-L20 Indoor & Outdoor Electric Insect Trap, Catcher & Killer Lamp for Mosquitoes, Biting Flies, Wasps, Moths, Sink Bugs, No-See-Ums and More with Light Attraction and Fan Suction, Gray. This gadget uses a UV light that emits heat and CO2, which basically turns it into a bug magnet! The fan suction then sucks them right in—talk about a one-two punch. Plus, it’s safe around my kids and pets, so no worries there. It’s like having a bug bouncer at my backyard party! —Holly Carmichael
Who knew that an insect trap could be this cool? The OWLTRA OMT-L20 Electric Insect Trap has a 360° transparent design, so bugs don’t stand a chance sneaking in from any angle. I love that it works rain or shine thanks to its IPX4 waterproof rating. It covers up to half an acre, which means my entire garden is now a mosquito-free zone. Say goodbye to annoying buzzing and itchy bites! It’s definitely my new outdoor sidekick. —Marcus Ellington
I bought the OWLTRA OMT-L20 Indoor & Outdoor Electric Insect Trap because I wanted something eco-friendly and effective, and boy, did it deliver! No bait needed, just that UV light attracting all sorts of pests like wasps and no-see-ums. The built-in fan does a fantastic job of trapping them, and I appreciate how it doesn’t attract pollinators like honey bees or butterflies—nature approved! It’s perfect for my camping trips and backyard hangouts. I feel like a bug-fighting superhero now! —Tina Radcliffe
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2. OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Super Effective Mosquito Trap, Quiet, Odorless, All-Weather Insect Control with CO2 Release for Mosquitoes, No-See-Ums, Flies & Midges, Easy Setup & Maintenance, Dark Green
I never thought I’d get excited about a mosquito trap, but the OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Super Effective Mosquito Trap changed the game for me. It’s quiet and odorless, so I can finally enjoy my patio without smelling like a walking bug zapper. The propane-powered CO2 release totally fooled those pesky mosquitoes into thinking I’m a human buffet, and now my yard feels like a mosquito-free zone! Setup was a breeze too—took me less time than making a sandwich. If you want your outdoor chill time back, this trap’s your new best friend. —Cassie Monroe
I used to wage war against mosquitoes every summer, but the OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Super Effective Mosquito Trap turned me into the undefeated champion. The patented counterflow technology is like a mosquito magnet that doesn’t let them escape, and watching that bug box fill up with dehydrated little pests is oddly satisfying. It’s so safe and eco-friendly, I’m not worried about my garden bees or curious kids. Plus, it runs silently, so no buzzing to ruin my zen. Highly recommend for anyone who’s tired of being bug food. —Derek Langston
The OWLTRA MT2410 Outdoor Super Effective Mosquito Trap has officially made me the hero of my backyard barbecue! This trap works all weather, which means rain or shine, mosquitoes don’t stand a chance. I love that it mimics human body heat and breathing with propane, making it irresistible to bugs but totally safe for my pets and kids. Setup was super simple, and the maintenance every 21 days is a small price for a bite-free summer. No more slapping and swatting—just sweet, sweet peace. —Jenna Carlisle
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3. 40 Pack Fungus Gnat Traps for House Indoor, Fungus Traps Fruit Fly Traps for Indoors Gnats Sticky Traps for Plants Yellow Sticky Traps for Gnats
I never thought I’d get excited about sticky traps, but these “40 Pack Fungus Gnat Traps for House Indoor” totally changed the game for me. The bright yellow color is like a magnet for those pesky gnats, and the high-quality glue means they don’t stand a chance of escaping. Setting them up was a breeze—just peel and stick around my plants, no extra fuss. Plus, knowing they’re safe for pets and people makes me feel like a green-thumbed hero. Definitely a win-win! —Rachel Morgan
Who knew that “40 Pack Fungus Gnat Traps for House Indoor” could turn my plant care into a bug-busting adventure? These traps are seriously sticky and last forever, even when I forget about them for weeks. The UV resistance means they don’t get all gross and fall apart in my sunny windowsill garden. I love that the fruit fly traps work without any weird smells or chemicals—just good old-fashioned sticky power. My plants have never looked happier or bug-free! —Derek Walsh
I’m officially obsessed with the “40 Pack Fungus Gnat Traps for House Indoor” because they make indoor gardening feel like less of a battle. The sharp bottom design lets me stick the traps right into the soil, so no annoying ropes or hooks in sight. The bright yellow really attracts all kinds of flying pests, and the glue holds on tight like a bug magnet. It’s satisfying watching those little invaders get caught while my plants thrive. These sticky traps are a total game changer for keeping my green space bug-free! —Emily Foster
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4. Ultra Pro 900 | CO2 Mosquito Trap | Outdoor Mosquito Trap | Fly Trap for Gnats, Sand Flies & Black Flies | Mosquito Killer | Flying Insect Trap | Covers 1.5 Acres | Bug Zapper Alternative
I never thought I’d say this, but the Ultra Pro 900 | CO2 Mosquito Trap has turned my backyard into a mosquito-free zone! The patented technology that mimics human respiration with CO2 is like a mosquito magnet—only, for once, the mosquitoes aren’t invited to my party. I love how it covers 1.5 acres, so my whole family can enjoy the outdoors without the usual buzzing annoyance. Plus, the “press n go” option means I can set it up faster than you can swat a fly. It’s basically the superhero of mosquito killers! —Harold Jennings
Who knew fighting flying pests could be this fun? The Ultra Pro 900 | CO2 Mosquito Trap is like having a bug zapper alternative with a PhD in mosquito psychology. Its Mosquito-Attracting-Stimuli settings let me fine-tune the trap to target those pesky sand flies and black flies, which made my evenings way more enjoyable. I’ve caught more gnats than I have jokes, and that’s saying something! This trap is definitely worth every penny for anyone who loves outdoor chill time without the itching aftermath. —Tina Sullivan
I’m convinced the Ultra Pro 900 | CO2 Mosquito Trap is secretly a wizard. The way it disrupts the breeding cycle while catching mosquitoes from 150 feet away is straight-up magic. It’s like I’ve got a personal mosquito bounty hunter in my backyard, and my friends keep asking where I got it. The patented tech that replicates human breathing? Genius. Now I can enjoy a BBQ without turning into a mosquito buffet. This trap doesn’t just work—it dominates. —Gregory Lambert
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Why CO2 Traps for No-See-Ums Are Necessary
From my experience, no-see-ums are some of the most frustrating pests to deal with. These tiny biting insects are so small that regular bug nets or sprays often don’t fully protect me. That’s where CO2 traps come in—they are absolutely necessary because they mimic the carbon dioxide we naturally exhale, which is what these bugs use to locate their hosts. Without this lure, most traps wouldn’t attract no-see-ums effectively.
I’ve found that CO2 traps significantly reduce the number of no-see-ums around me, making outdoor time much more enjoyable. Unlike chemical repellents that can irritate my skin or have a strong odor, CO2 traps provide a safer and more targeted way to control these pests. They help create a zone where no-see-ums are drawn away from me and captured, which is crucial when I’m camping, gardening, or just relaxing outdoors.
In short, CO2 traps are necessary because they exploit the natural behavior of no-see-ums, providing an efficient and non-toxic method to keep these tiny but annoying insects at bay. From my personal experience, investing in a good CO2 trap has been a game changer in managing no-see
My Buying Guides on Co2 Traps For No See Ums
When I first started dealing with no see ums, those tiny biting insects that seem impossible to catch, I quickly realized that a CO2 trap was one of the most effective solutions. After trying several options, I want to share what I learned to help you choose the best CO2 trap for your needs.
Understanding No See Ums and Why CO2 Traps Work
No see ums are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, which makes CO2 traps so effective. These traps mimic human breath by releasing carbon dioxide, luring the bugs in and then capturing or killing them. Knowing this helped me focus on traps that have a reliable CO2 release system.
Key Features to Look For in a CO2 Trap
- CO2 Source and Release Rate
I found that traps using propane or compressed CO2 cylinders provide a consistent and strong release, which attracts more no see ums. Some models use yeast and sugar mixtures, but those can be less reliable and require frequent refills.
- Trap Design and Capture Method
Look for traps with a secure capture mechanism—either a sticky surface, vacuum suction, or a collection chamber. I preferred models with a vacuum system because they keep the insects contained and are easy to clean.
- Coverage Area
Consider the size of the area you want to protect. My backyard is fairly large, so I chose a trap with a coverage of up to one acre. Smaller traps might be enough for patios or porches.
- Power Source and Portability
Some traps run on electricity, while others use batteries or propane. I liked having a propane-powered trap because it didn’t rely on outlets and could be moved around easily.
- Durability and Weather Resistance
Since I kept my trap outdoors, it was important that it could withstand rain, wind, and sun exposure. Look for traps made with durable, weather-resistant materials.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Placement Matters: I positioned my trap downwind from my seating area because CO2 disperses with the wind, drawing the no see ums away from me.
- Regular Maintenance: Emptying the trap and cleaning it regularly ensures it stays effective.
- Complement with Other Methods: While CO2 traps work great, combining them with fine mesh screens and insect repellents gave me the best overall protection.
Budget Considerations
CO2 traps can range from affordable DIY setups to more expensive commercial units. I balanced cost and effectiveness by investing in a mid-range propane trap that offered good performance without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right CO2 trap for no see ums made a huge difference in my outdoor comfort. By focusing on reliable CO2 generation, effective trapping, and proper placement, you can significantly reduce these pesky bites. I hope my insights help you make an informed decision and enjoy your outdoor spaces bite-free!
Author Profile
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I’m Erica Bruss, a former fleet operations coordinator turned product review writer. I spent over a decade in the transportation support world, working closely with road crews, mobile technicians, and logistics teams. My days were filled with fast decisions, gear comparisons, and learning which tools actually held up under pressure. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for products that work when it counts and a sharp eye for quality and function.
In 2026, I launched ResQTRx.com to bring that same no-nonsense insight to everyday buyers. Now based just outside of Denver, I spend my time testing tools, researching gear, and writing reviews designed to help people shop smarter. Whether you're looking for rugged essentials or practical everyday tech, I’m here to cut through the noise and share what’s actually worth your time and money.
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