4.1Editor score
In this guide
Housefly traps work best when they suit the infestation, the location, and the level of discretion you need. Sticky ribbons offer simple, passive control, while plug-in traps and window traps provide more specialized placement options for kitchens, patios, and other problem areas.
This guide compares ten housefly trap products by attraction method, coverage, installation, disposal, and ease of maintenance. It includes plug-in insect traps, hanging fly strips, boxed sticky traps, window traps, and a food-baited fruit fly trap so readers can compare different approaches.
The top picks highlight a versatile plug-in system, a highly rated window trap, and an economical pack of hanging fly papers. Ratings, packaging, features, and availability can change, and prices fluctuate, so readers should confirm current details before making a purchase.
Top 3 Picks for Best Housefly Traps
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Top 10 Best Housefly Traps in 2026 Compared
The table below compares every housefly trap in the guide by its trap format, attraction approach, placement options, and practical upkeep, making it easier to identify the right product for a particular room or infestation.
1. Zevo Flying Insect Trap – Best Overall Housefly Trap
This Zevo Flying Insect Trap earns a 4.2 rating and stands out as the most versatile housefly trap in the guide. It combines blue and UV light with a disposable adhesive cartridge, allowing it to attract and retain small flying insects without relying on aerosols, electric zapping grids, or added fragrances.
Pros
- Uses light for continuous attraction
- Keeps caught insects concealed
- Works without sprays or odors
- Suitable for several indoor rooms
- Three cartridges included
Cons
- Requires an available electrical outlet
- Best indoors rather than exposed outdoors
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Its strongest feature is the combination of continuous light attraction and concealed insect capture. The cartridge traps flies, fruit flies, gnats, and other small flying pests on a wall-facing adhesive pad. A removal tab makes changing the cartridge easier, while the plugged-in base provides round-the-clock operation without batteries.
The main limitation is dependence on a wall outlet and a suitable indoor location. Because the product is designed for enclosed rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and enclosed patios are more appropriate than uncovered outdoor settings. It also does not use a food lure, so placement near fruit bowls, refuse bins, and plants is especially important.
This is the most complete option for readers who want a reusable device, continuous operation, and several replacement cartridges. The included three refills make it more convenient than a single-cartridge configuration, while its family-friendly, spray-free, odor-free design fits many household routines.
Discreet Continuous Attraction
The blue and UV light provides a consistent visual attractant, and the wall-facing cartridge hides captured insects from view. This makes the trap appropriate for kitchens and multipurpose living areas where an exposed sticky surface would be conspicuous.
Simple Cartridge Maintenance
A blinking light signals when the cartridge should be checked every six weeks. The disposable adhesive system and pull tab simplify removal, helping owners maintain the trap without handling trapped insects directly.
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2. TERRO T518 Fly Magnet – Best Budget Housefly Trap
The TERRO T518 Fly Magnet has a 4.1 rating and offers one of the simplest ways to address houseflies at home. This eight-count pack contains disposable sticky hanging fly papers that use no bait, create no odor, and do not require electricity or complicated setup.
Pros
- Low-cost eight-pack format
- Requires no power or bait
- Easy to hang around the home
- No added fragrance
- Disposable when full
Cons
- Visible sticky ribbons
- No electrical or lure attraction
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Because the traps are passive, placement is the primary strategy. Homeowners can spread several pieces around areas where flies are seen, making the eight-pack useful for a kitchen and multiple nearby rooms. The ribbon format hangs easily and can be disposed of after it becomes full.
Compared with enclosed plug-in systems, these traps leave the adhesive surface exposed, so they are less discreet. They also offer no continuous light attraction or targeted lure. The tradeoff is simplicity: there is no device to power, cartridge to replace, or liquid bait to refill.
This is a sensible choice for straightforward indoor fly control on a limited budget. It is particularly appealing to people who prefer a straightforward disposable trap and are willing to position it where activity is highest. Buyers should keep the ribbons away from children, pets, and clothing.
Disperse Traps Throughout the Home
Eight units allow placement in more than one location. Spreading them near problem areas can be more useful than concentrating every trap in a single room.
No Power or Bait Required
The trap works passively through its sticky surface. That simplicity reduces setup requirements, although it also means results depend heavily on strategic placement.
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3. Fly Stick Sticky Fly Traps – Best Versatile Hanging Trap
This four-pack of Fly Stick traps carries a 4.2 rating and combines a hanging ribbon design with a small bait dish. Each trap arrives in an open-faced box, giving the adhesive surface some visual separation from the surrounding area while allowing it to catch houseflies, gnats, and other small flying insects.
Pros
- Supports optional custom bait
- Hangs or stands on surfaces
- Waterproof adhesive lasts months
- Boxes reduce visual clutter
- Suitable indoors or outdoors
Cons
- Custom bait requires user preparation
- Exposed sticky surface needs care
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The included dish adds flexibility. A sugary bait can turn the trap into a more targeted fruit fly catcher, while leaving it empty preserves a bait-free approach. The traps may hang from the supplied hooks or stand on a flat surface, making them useful in rooms with different layouts.
The adhesive is described as waterproof and capable of lasting for three months, although actual performance varies with environmental conditions and insect activity. The sticky area should not be touched, and the optional bait means users should avoid leaving exposed food where children or pets could reach it.
This product suits flexible households that want one trap format for multiple rooms or both indoor and outdoor use. It offers more customization than a basic fly ribbon, but it still requires more thought about placement than an electric plug-in trap.
Target Flies With Custom Bait
The removable dish can hold a small amount of suitable bait, including a sugary substance when fruit flies are the target. Keep bait modest, secure the trap, and follow the manufacturer's placement guidance.
Flexible Hanging or Standing Setup
Hooks allow the trap to hang, while the box also supports placement on a level surface. This flexibility helps users respond to windows, patios, counters, and other areas where flies gather.
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4. Zevo Flying Insect Trap – Best Compact Electric Trap
This single-refill Zevo trap has a 4.2 rating and delivers the same light-and-cartridge format as the larger multi-refill configuration. It is a compact choice for one targeted room rather than a household-wide setup.
Pros
- Compact reusable base
- Continuous light attraction
- Quiet and odor-free
- Conceals caught insects
- No spray required
Cons
- Only one cartridge included
- Requires outlet access
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Blue and UV light attract houseflies, fruit flies, gnats, and other small flying pests, while the cartridge holds catches on a wall-facing adhesive pad. The device operates quietly without odor, spray, or a zap grid, making it less intrusive in occupied areas than some more exposed traps.
The primary drawback is limited continuity after the included cartridge is replaced. The reusable base remains useful, but additional adhesive cartridges must be purchased separately. Outlet location also matters because the trap should be positioned near the source of activity without obstructing daily use.
Buyers who need a discreet electric trap for one kitchen, bathroom, or enclosed patio will appreciate its focused footprint. It is less suitable for a multi-room plan than the two-base or three-refill packages.
Focused Single-Room Solution
One base and one cartridge are enough to establish continuous control in a location where flies repeatedly appear. Position it close to the breeding or feeding source for the most useful result.
Quiet, Odor-Free Operation
The trap avoids added fragrance and aerosol mist. Its light and enclosed adhesive cartridge provide passive capture while keeping the insects out of sight.
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5. Zevo Flying Insect Trap, 2 Pack – Best Multi-Room Housefly Trap
The two-base Zevo configuration holds a 4.3 rating, making it the highest-rated product among the three electric Zevo options in the guide. Two plug-in bases and matching cartridges allow continuous treatment in separate locations without forcing one trap to cover the entire home.
Pros
- Covers more than one room
- Highest-rated Zevo configuration
- Concealed adhesive capture
- Continuous indoor operation
- Odor-free and spray-free
Cons
- Requires two suitable outlets
- Two cartridges cover less time
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Its blue and UV light continuously attracts houseflies, fruit flies, gnats, and other small flying pests. Wall-facing adhesive cartridges hold insects concealed from view, and a blinking indicator reminds users to inspect the cartridge every six weeks. The design is quiet and operates without sprays, zapping, or added odors.
The tradeoff is that this is a smaller cartridge reserve than the one-base, three-refill package. Households with several active rooms may exhaust the two included cartridges sooner, while households needing one location can save money by choosing a single-base option.
This is the best balanced Zevo option for two distinct problem areas, such as a kitchen and enclosed patio. It combines a higher rating than the other configurations with enough equipment to place traps where flies are actually active rather than relying on a single central unit.
Target Two Separate Problem Areas
A second base lets users follow the insects instead of stretching one device to cover every room. Put one unit near fruit and another near refuse, plants, or a frequently opened doorway.
Continuous Capture Without Exposed Traps
The cartridge keeps captured insects behind the wall-facing adhesive pad. This helps the setup remain visually tidy in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and enclosed patios.
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6. Fly Strips, 24 Pack – Best Bulk Hanging Fly Trap
This 24-pack of hanging fly strips has a 4.0 rating and provides broad coverage for houses, patios, workshops, or other locations that need many passive traps. Every roll includes a pin, making installation straightforward without separate hanging hardware.
Pros
- Large number of traps
- Pins simplify hanging
- No bait or odor required
- Works indoors or outdoors
- Immediate sticky capture
Cons
- Visible ribbons may be conspicuous
- Dusty areas shorten service life
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The adhesive is described as super sticky, odorless, and bait-free. It can begin catching immediately after setup, while waterproof glue allows the strips to be used outdoors as well as indoors. According to the product information, a trap may last for up to three months, although dusty environments can require earlier replacement.
Because there are 24 units, some will inevitably be more visible than a compact electric trap. The exposed sticky surfaces also need careful placement around children, pets, traffic, and laundry areas. Owners should move a trap if they do not see results because insect activity may be concentrated elsewhere.
This bulk format is most useful for comprehensive placement, multi-room coverage, or maintaining spare traps. A smaller pack may be sufficient for a single home, but the 24-count gives users flexibility to replace units as they fill or dirt accumulates.
Broad Placement Coverage
A large inventory makes it possible to place traps around several entry points, food-preparation areas, or outdoor gathering zones. Rotate locations as activity changes.
Fast, Simple Setup
Warm the ribbon in your hands, remove the lid, gently unroll it, and use the included pin. The trap can start working immediately once positioned.
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7. Fly Strips, 10 Pack – Best Compact Hanging Fly Trap
The 10-pack of Fly Strips receives a 4.0 rating and offers a middle ground between a small disposable set and a large bulk supply. Each unit is a ribbon roll with extremely sticky, waterproof adhesive and an included pin for hanging.
Pros
- Compact ten-trap supply
- Easy hanging with pins
- Bait-free operation
- Indoor and outdoor use
- Immediate capture surface
Cons
- Less coverage than bulk packs
- May need replacement in dusty areas
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The traps require no bait or odor, making them useful where scented or food-based products would be undesirable. They can be set up in a few simple steps: warm the roll, remove the lid, gently unravel the ribbon, and hang it. The adhesive can begin working as soon as the strip is installed.
The same limitations as other exposed ribbon designs apply. Trap visibility may be noticeable in a formal room, and the adhesive may collect dust or insects and require replacement sooner in a dusty location. They should also be placed where people and pets will not brush against the sticky side.
This pack works well for a household that wants to cover a handful of areas without maintaining a large inventory. It also provides a manageable number of spare replacements, making routine upkeep easier than replacing individual fly strips purchased separately.
A Balanced Number of Traps
Ten units offer enough coverage for several strategic locations while avoiding the visual bulk of a much larger pack. This works well for apartments and moderate household use.
Waterproof for Flexible Placement
The waterproof adhesive allows use in both indoor and outdoor areas. Replacement may be necessary sooner where dust, weather, or heavy insect activity rapidly covers the surface.
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8. Fly Stick Sticky Fly Traps, 6 Pack – Best Expandable Hanging Trap Set
This six-pack of Fly Stick traps has a 4.2 rating and is a flexible alternative to the smaller four-pack. Each unit includes a box, a sticky surface, a hanging option, and a bottom dish that can accept a small amount of bait when targeting a particular fly.
Pros
- Six units for broad coverage
- Optional targeted bait
- Supports hanging or standing
- Waterproof adhesive
- Discreet boxed construction
Cons
- Bait dishes require care
- Sticky surfaces need restricted access
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The bait-free setup can catch houseflies, gnats, fruit flies, and other insects attracted to the trap's location. Adding a sugary bait may make it more useful against fruit flies, while leaving the dish empty avoids introducing food into the setup. Each trap can hang from its hook or stand on a flat surface.
The product information states that the adhesive is waterproof and lasts for three months. Actual durability will depend on exposure, dust, weather, and catch volume. The open-faced box improves the appearance somewhat, but the adhesive remains exposed, so careful placement is still necessary.
This set is ideal for households that want more placement flexibility than a basic ribbon but do not need electricity. It is particularly appealing for fruit-producing kitchens, patios, and other areas where the included bait dishes can be used selectively.
Adapt to Different Fly Types
Use the trap without bait for general passive control, or add a suitable sugary bait when fruit flies are the main concern. Remove or replace bait before it becomes dirty or attracts unwanted activity.
More Units Than Compact Packs
Six traps make it easier to cover multiple zones while keeping a few replacements on hand. The enclosed box and optional hooks help each unit blend into its placement area.
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9. LFSYS 50 Window Fly Traps – Best Discreet Window Trap
The LFSYS 50 Window Fly Traps hold a 4.7 rating, the highest rating among the ten products. Their transparent, flat design is intended to sit on windows where they can catch insects without blocking light or producing the buzzing associated with electric zappers.
Pros
- Highest rating in the guide
- Fifty traps in one pack
- Transparent and unobtrusive
- No buzzing from zapping
- Leaves no sticky window residue
Cons
- Designed for window surfaces
- Disposable units require storage
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Each trap uses non-toxic, pollution-free glue that holds insects that land or crawl on the surface. The clear construction makes the traps less noticeable than a hanging ribbon, which is helpful in kitchens and other areas where unsightly fly paper would be inconvenient.
The adhesive is designed to be removed without leaving sticky residue on the window. A supply of 50 disposable units also makes it easy to replace a trap as it becomes dirty or full. The trade-off is that the large number of units requires storage, and the format is specifically designed around window placement rather than broad hanging use.
This is the top choice for households wanting discreet, quiet fly control without exposed dangling ribbons. It is also a strong option for fruit fly monitoring around windows, provided the traps are positioned where flies actually land.
Clear, Light-Preserving Design
The transparent body does not noticeably deflect light, so it is less intrusive than opaque paper strips. The result is a cleaner appearance for visible windows and frequent living areas.
Large Disposable Supply
Fifty units allow continuous monitoring and easy replacement. Keep unused traps in a sealed or clean location so dust does not settle on the adhesive before installation.
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10. TERRO Fruit Fly Trap – Best Lured Fruit Fly Trap
The TERRO Fruit Fly Trap has a 3.9 rating and is the most specialized product in the guide. Unlike the light-based and un-baited sticky options, it uses a food-based liquid lure designed to attract fruit flies to a ready-to-use trap.
Pros
- Targets fruit flies with liquid lure
- Ready to use without mixing
- Long stated lure duration
- Discreet apple-shaped design
- Monitoring windows show contents
Cons
- Focused on fruit flies
- Contains food-based liquid lure
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Each trap can provide up to 45 days of protection, and the four-pack represents a stated 180 days of lure supply. The apple-shaped exterior is intended to blend into a fruit display, while small monitoring windows let users check catches and remaining lure without opening the container.
This format is less appropriate for general houseflies than broader sticky or light-based traps. The liquid bait may also be unsuitable for homes where children or pets could access the trap, so it should be placed carefully. Its 3.9 rating is also the lowest in this selection.
The product is worth considering when the problem has been identified as fruit flies around produce, refuse, or kitchen counters. For mixed or uncertain infestations, a general housefly trap is likely a more flexible first purchase.
Food-Based Fruit Fly Attraction
The liquid lure gives the trap a specific advantage when fruit flies are the confirmed target. Place it near fruit bowls, trash cans, and counters where breeding and feeding activity occur.
Ready for Extended Use
No mixing or preparation is required, and each trap offers up to 45 days of continuous protection. Monitoring windows help users judge whether the trap still contains enough lure and captured insects.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Housefly Trap
The most useful housefly trap depends on how the insects behave, where they gather, and how much maintenance you want. Compare attraction methods, surface area, placement flexibility, visibility, and replacement needs before buying.
Choose the Right Attraction Method
Light-based traps use blue and UV illumination to attract flying insects continuously, making them convenient when you want a plug-in appliance rather than an exposed sticky ribbon. Food-baited traps offer more targeted attraction for fruit flies but introduce liquid bait that must be handled carefully. Bait-free traps rely primarily on placement and happenstance, so they work best when flies are already frequent visitors to a room.
Match the Trap to the Infestation
A general housefly trap should address flies around doors, food waste, and indoor gathering areas. Fruit fly traps are more specialized and work best around produce, trash cans, and kitchen counters. Traps marketed for gnats may also target fungus gnats around plants. If the insect species is uncertain, a broader sticky or light-based product offers more flexibility than a single food-lure format.
Consider Placement and Visibility
Hanging ribbons and boxed sticky traps need enough open space for insects to reach the adhesive. Plug-in units need an outlet and room around the device, while window traps are designed to sit flat on glass. Transparent designs are less noticeable than opaque paper strips, making them attractive in kitchens and living rooms where appearance matters.
Check Maintenance and Disposal Needs
Sticky ribbons and window traps are generally disposable, while plug-in devices reuse the base but require replacement cartridges. Food-lure traps may remain usable for weeks before the lure is depleted. Consider how often you want to inspect the trap, remove full products, clean the surrounding area, and store spare supplies.
Review Safety Features
Look for non-toxic adhesive, no added odor, enclosed insect capture, and child- or pet-conscious placement guidance. These qualities can make a trap more comfortable around a busy household. Regardless of the label, keep every trap inaccessible to children and animals, and avoid placing exposed adhesive where it can contact skin, fur, clothing, or food-preparation surfaces.
Evaluate Coverage and Pack Size
A single trap may be enough for one localized problem, while multiple rooms or entry points require several units. Bulk ribbon and window-trap packs provide convenient replacements, whereas multi-base plug-in packages make it easier to cover separate rooms. Match the number of units to the number of active locations rather than buying only by total count.
Indoor and Outdoor Durability
Some sticky strips use waterproof adhesive and can be used outdoors, but no trap is automatically suitable for every exposed environment. Wind, rain, dust, direct sunlight, and temperature can shorten adhesive life. Plug-in devices are best kept indoors or in sheltered enclosed patios. Check the stated use area and replace outdoor traps sooner when weather or dust covers the surface.
Reduce the Source of the Infestation
No trap works as effectively when the conditions producing flies remain untouched. Store ripe produce in suitable containers, clean spills promptly, take out household waste, empty cans, and keep bins closed. Fungus gnats may be associated with overwatering indoor plants, while houseflies and fruit flies are often drawn to exposed food and refuse.
How to Use and Care for Your Housefly Trap
Begin by identifying where flies gather and placing the trap close to that source without blocking work areas, windows, doors, or ventilation. For light-based traps, choose a wall outlet in a room where insects regularly pass, and orient the cartridge toward the wall. For hanging strips, warm the roll if instructed, remove the lid, unroll it gently, and secure it with the supplied pin or hook.
For window traps, clean and dry the glass before applying each unit so the transparent surface sits flat. For food-lure traps, do not open or dilute the lure unless the instructions direct you to do so. Keep all traps away from children, pets, food, utensils, laundry, and frequently touched surfaces, especially when using exposed adhesive or liquid bait.
Inspect traps regularly and replace them when the adhesive is full, dirty, or losing effectiveness. Electric-trap cartridges should be checked about every six weeks, while sticky strips may last up to three months under favorable conditions and fruit-fly traps can remain useful for up to 45 days. Dispose of used traps according to local waste guidance, clean nearby surfaces, and continue removing food waste and standing moisture that attract flies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective way to catch houseflies indoors?
The best approach combines a suitable trap with source control. Place a light-based or sticky trap near the area where flies gather, but also remove exposed food, close waste bins, clean spills, and limit entry points. A trap works harder when it does not have to compete with abundant food and breeding sites.
Are sticky fly strips better than plug-in insect traps?
Sticky strips are simple, inexpensive, and require no power, while plug-in traps provide continuous light attraction and keep captured insects concealed. Sticky strips are easier to move and replace, but plug-in models are generally more discreet in occupied rooms. The better option depends on outlet access, appearance, and maintenance preferences.
Can housefly traps work without bait?
Yes. Bait-free ribbons, window traps, and light-based devices capture insects through placement, visual attraction, or incidental contact with adhesive. However, bait-free traps usually work best close to an active fly route. Their effectiveness can decline when insects are strongly attracted to uncovered food nearby.
Where should I place a housefly trap?
Place the trap near the place where flies are most often seen, such as fruit bowls, trash cans, kitchen counters, doors, or indoor plants. Avoid blocking windows, ventilation, walkways, and food-preparation areas. If a trap is not catching insects, move it to another area with greater fly activity.
Are window fly traps suitable for kitchens?
Transparent window traps can be useful in kitchens because they are less conspicuous and do not produce the noise of an electric zapper. Make sure the window is clean and dry, position traps where flies land, and keep them inaccessible to children and pets. Avoid placing them over food or in a location where condensation is likely.
How often should I replace housefly traps?
Replacement depends on the type, insect activity, and environment. Electric adhesive cartridges should be checked about every six weeks, fruit-fly traps can provide up to 45 days of protection, and waterproof sticky ribbons may last up to three months under favorable conditions. Dusty or heavily exposed traps may need replacement much sooner.
Do housefly traps eliminate flies on their own?
Traps can reduce flying insects, but they work best as part of a broader sanitation plan. Clean food surfaces, contain produce, remove garbage frequently, rinse cans and containers, and address excess moisture around plants. Sealing entry points adds another layer of prevention without relying on a trap alone.
Can I use fly traps outdoors?
Only use products specifically labeled for outdoor use. Waterproof adhesive ribbons and boxed sticky traps may work on sheltered patios, porches, or around bins. Keep plug-in models indoors or under protected cover, and expect outdoor traps to require more frequent replacement because of rain, wind, dust, and direct exposure.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Housefly Traps
The Zevo trap with one base and three refills is the strongest all-around choice for continuous, discreet indoor use, while the two-base version is better for covering separate rooms. The TERRO T518 remains a practical budget option for simple passive control, and the highly rated LFSYS window pack is ideal for homeowners who prioritize a transparent, residue-free appearance.
The most important purchasing priority is matching the format to the fly and the location. Use light and enclosed cartridges where outlets and continuous operation are useful, choose ribbons or window traps for passive deployment, and reserve food-baited products for confirmed fruit fly problems. Whichever format you select, source control remains essential.
Before ordering, check the current product details, included accessories, dimensions, and available refills. Ratings and prices can change, so confirm that the chosen trap is still appropriate for your space and that you have enough replacement units for the locations where flies are most active.