Bed Bug Dry Ice Trap

Watch an overview of the Dry Ice Trap here.

One Dog Bowl- This dog bowl was specifically designed to…well feed dogs. However we have repurposed this particular brand because when inverted, the bowl’s underside shares similar characteristics with bed bug pitfall interception devices.

What does this really mean? Not all dog bowls are created equal and having the correct type of dog bowl design is essential for the monitor to work effectively. Other dog bowls simply may not have an effective design for this purpose because they were, after all, designed to feed dogs.

One Length of Wide Masking Tape- This is ordinary wide masking tape. The tape comes pre-wrapped around the dog bowl to create a surface the bed bugs are able to climb and access the pitfall trap.

What does this really mean? The slick walls of the dog bowl can be difficult for bed bugs to scale. The masking tape that encircles the dog bowl creates a porous and textured surface that bed bus can easily climb to access the pitfall trap.

One Bottle of Talcum Powder- Talcum powder, which many times is the active ingredient in baby powder, is included as a lubricant for the interior of the inverted dog bowl. Once applied, it is virtually impossible for bed bugs to escape the trap. It should not be eaten.

What does this really mean? A light dusting of talcum powder on the interior of the inverted dog bowl will create a pitfall trap that is virtually impossible for a bed bug to escape.

One Thermos- The included thermos will house the dry ice. We have selected a model of thermos that research has shown to insulate the dry ice and assure it will last through the night. This interval of release provides one of the longest periods of release that we have found possible in unaltered thermoses.

What does this really mean? We have specifically selected this thermos because we have found it to emit the dry ice attractant over a sufficient period of time to effectively attract bed bugs. As a result, this thermos increases the likelihood of bed bug capture compared to thermoses that do not have as long of a release rate interval.

Dry Ice Sold Separately- Dry ice is compressed and frozen CO2 and is the attractant in this D.I.Y. kit. The kit does not include dry ice however, it can be purchased at many grocery stores and seafood markets.  

Why do you need this product?

While this product is simple to put together, it is an effective ‘active bed bug monitor.’ As a result, the D.I.Y. Bed Bug Dry Ice Trap Kit can be an integral component in determining if a bed bug infestation is present.

Infestation Confirmation: This device has the ability to actively attract bed bugs. As such, this kit can play an integral role in confirming the presence of an infestation. If identified, appropriate actions can be taken sooner. Having the ability to detect bed bug infestations earlier will significantly impact the levels of treatment and ultimately cost. Because low-level infestations are difficult to detect by conventional means, the D.I.Y. Bed Bug Dry Ice Trap Kit can be an important tool for earlier detection.

Greatest Benefit: This device will be of the greatest benefit to individuals who suspect they have an infestation or wish to monitor an existing infestation and do not have the means to purchase commercially manufactured active bed bug monitors.

When you make purchase from Bed Bug Central, we often include free supplementary materials that are exclusive to our company and will put the expertise of our entomologists at your finger tips. These materials are designed to ensure that you:

1. Use our products effectively, avoid common usage and installation mistakes that our certified technicians and entomologists see in the field. This will increase your product’s longevity and the level of protection offered.
2. Educate you to be as knowledgeable as possible about bed bugs, additional prevention methods and things that you should expect.
3. Add the most value to your purchase without adding the highest cost.

Supplementary Materials:

1. Assembly instructions for D.I.Y. Bed Bug Dry Ice Trap Kit- While the concept of this device may seem simple, actual usage and real-life execution may be a challenge. We have created a step-by-step manual detailing how to properly assemble and use this kit (i.e. optimal placement within a room, set up, maintenance, etc.). We also expand on what potential results you may receive and what follow up actions may be necessary.
2. Correct items and execution- There are a variety of similar items that can be used to re-create this monitor but will lack the efficacy of the items selected for this kit. Our staff entomologists, Richard Cooper and Jeff White have specifically tested a variety of similar components to determine which would be most effective in luring and trapping bed bugs. By purchasing from Bed Bug Central you are ensuring that the materials that are being purchased are correctly modified and assembled. This will remove the question, “Did I do this right?”
3. Resources for safely handling dry ice- If mishandled, dry ice can cause burns to people and pets. Bed Bug Central will provide you with resources to educate you on how to safely handle dry ice.
4. Bed Bug Information Packet- Dealing with bed bugs is a complex, frustrating, and often emotional process. We have included an information packet that will teach you about bed bugs, the various symptoms of an infestation and bites, and how to inspect for bed bugs. Because bed bugs can be a complex problem to deal with, education and knowledge and prevention are your best weapons.