How to Find the Best Insect Vacuum
When trying to get rid of bugs in your home, there are better options than a rolled-up magazine or the bottom of a shoe. Insect vacuums make it easy to catch these pesky animals without ever having to get too close to feel comfortable.
These handy tools are used to catch insects, usually without harming them. This makes them a smart and environmentally friendly no-kill solution. Most insect vacuum cleaners are lightweight and easy to manage.
Our favorite is the Trimax BigZooka WB100, as it is strongly extracted and operated manually and does not depend on batteries. However, there are many great models out there. Read on to find out everything you need to know about choosing an insect vacuum.
What should be considered when buying an insect vacuum cleaner?
Types of insects
The type of insects you want to catch will determine which model is best for you. Take into account factors such as suction power and the diameter of the nozzle opening. Models with extremely strong suction can damage sensitive insects, while models with tiny nozzles are ineffective against large spiders, palmetto insects, and similarly sized insects.
To kill or not to kill
Bug vacuums are available in kill and no-kill models. Most purpose-built insect vacuums are no-kill vacuums and have transparent collection chambers. Models that kill insects are often similar to all-purpose vacuum cleaners and offer very powerful suction. Usually these are only for bed bugs, dust mites, and other small insects.
When choosing a model that kills insects, consider the method of extermination. Standard methods are crushing, electrical charging, UV irradiation and heat. The method of extermination should be both practical and humane.
Energy source
Most vacuum cleaners require a power source. This can be done with either batteries or an electrical outlet. Battery operated options are great choices for those who don’t want to be plugged into an electrical outlet and toy models that kids may want to use outdoors. There are also some manual vacuum cleaners available that rely on a pumping action by the user.
Toys
Not all insect vacuum cleaners are intended as adult pest control tools. Some are designed as toys. These are often light and brightly colored. They also have additional features that make them more comfortable for children, like a removable exam chamber with a magnifying glass.
Features to look for in a good insect vacuum
Strong suction
In order for a large vacuum to be effective, it must be vacuumed strongly. The stronger the suction, the less likely an insect will escape. However, if you plan to use the vacuum on sensitive insects, it is important not to choose a model that is too powerful. Otherwise, you risk injuring or killing them.
Long nozzle
Most people would prefer to keep a healthy distance from creepy crawly animals. Choosing an extended nozzle model will allow you to stay away from the insects you are trying to catch. Remember that the longer the nozzle of a particular model, the more memory it will take.
Effective containment
Safe containment is an essential aspect of no-kill models. The last thing you want is the bugs crawling right back out. Look for models that offer a reliable method of closure when suction stops. Some may be automatic while others require the user to slip a cap over the end or turn a knob.
lighting
If you want to hunt under furniture and in other dark rooms, a model with built-in lighting can be beneficial. This way, you can see your prey even as it scurries under your couch.
How much does an insect vacuum cost?
The price of vacuum cleaners varies significantly whether you are buying a toy, a tool for home use, or an industrial model. You can expect to find toy options between $ 15- $ 30. Home use tools can range from $ 25 to $ 75. High-performance industrial models often cost well over $ 100.
Error vacuum FAQs
Are bug vacuums effective for all types of bugs?
While you can use insect vacuum cleaners on a wide variety of insects, they aren’t suitable for all types of insects. You should never use them on butterflies as the nozzles will damage their delicate wings. You also need to consider the specific model you have chosen. Manual and battery powered vacuums don’t work well on ants, bed bugs, and other tiny insects. Conversely, powerful industrial vacuum cleaners are usually not suitable for larger errors.
Can I just use a regular vacuum instead of an insect vacuum?
Standard vacuum cleaners are not ideal for failure because they lack a safe method of containment. This means that insects can simply crawl out again as soon as the suction stops. This is especially true for models without a bag. If you are using a vacuum with a bag, containment might not be a problem, but there is no method to fix the errors.
What’s the Best Insect Vacuum to Buy?
Best overall insect vacuum
Trimax BugZooka WB100
What you need to know: The BugZooka is an effective and reliable model and is based on a manual pumping process, so you no longer have to worry about the batteries running out.
What you will love: It has a retractable nozzle that keeps you a convenient distance from your prey.
What you should be aware of: The trap door is fragile.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best toy beetle vacuum
Nature bound bug catcher
What you need to know: This toy model is a great choice for kids who want to explore the world around them. It has an enlarged chamber for examining its breech and a built-in LED.
What you will love: The bright colors and the practical belt clip ensure that it is never lost.
What you should be aware of: It is prone to breakage when subjected to rough handling.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Best insect vacuum for house dust mites and bed bugs
The Atrix HEPA vacuum
What you need to know: When looking to rid a house or hotel room of bed bugs and dust mites, there are few better options. This machine offers a strong suction power and comes with several attachments.
What you will love: You can use it as a traditional vacuum for standard cleaning.
What you should be aware of: Some may find it difficult to carry around while working.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon and Home Depot
Brett Dvoretz is an author for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a unique mission: to help you simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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