Simple Flea Trap

Why spend good money on commercially available flea traps when you can make your own!

This trap operates on the observed behavior that fleas gravitate toward light. So we create a water trap that is baited with light.

This trap works best at night. So while you're sleeping the fleas are disappearing.

Now this trap only works on fleas in the area and will not rid you of fleas residing on your pet, nor will it address eggs and larval fleas. But it will dispatch fleas that can see the light (yes, go toward the light you little pests!)

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Step 1: Materials

You will need:

Shallow Bowl or Plate

Night Light or Small Desk Lamp*.

Dishwashing Detergent

Water

*You can use a tea light candle, but I consider this a fire hazard and would not recommend it.

I have read of individuals setting up multiple traps because of the low cost and ease of using a tea lights. Again, the fire hazard is something you have to consider, especially if you have a pet that is likely to interact with it.

Just don't use a tea light and be safe.

Step 2: Determine the Location of Your Flea Trap

You are going to want to locate the trap at or near the site of flea infestation.

You will need a flat level location on the floor near an electrical outlet if you are using the nightlight method. You don't need to worry as much about the electrical outlet if you are using the desk lamp (you can use an extension cord if needed).

Step 3: Set Up Your Light Source

Plug in your nightlight or desk lamp near the location of your flea infestation.

This light will be on during the night and the fleas will be attracted to the light and drown in the water.

Step 4: Create Your Water Hazard

No, we will not be golfing, but the fleas will be drowning.

Locate the plate near the night light, or position the desk lamp directly over the plate.

Add water to the shallow plate or bowl. Fleas don't stand too tall so you really only need enough for them to drown in.

Step 5: Add Dish Soap

You want to add about 1 tablespoon of dish soap. Less or more will probably be fine. Fleas are so light weight that they can bounce right off the surface of the water because the surface tension of the water prevents them from breaking through. Adding the dish soap reduces the surface tension so the fleas slip through and drown.

You can test the reduced surface tension by sprinkling some finely ground pepper on it if you like. It should not float on the surface of the water.