Note: This isn’t really a product review depsite how it looks. I wanted it to be similar to the other bed bug monitor reviews to make it easier for you to compare them all.
Overview
Bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide (CO2). Dr. Changlu Wang developed a method that uses dry ice to emit CO2 and attract bed bugs into a trap. His monitor can be built using materials that are easy for most people to buy:
- A thermal beverage container
- Dry ice
- A pet food bowl
- Fabric
- Tape
Cost
You will spend about $15 – $20 buying everything to make this.
Ease of Setup and Use
If you are a bit of a do-it-yourself type, you will probably find this device easy to make. If not, you might want to stick with something that’s ready to go out of the box.
Once you’ve built the device it looks like it should be easy to use.
Requires Replenishment
You will have to put new dry ice in the trap every 8 – 10 hours.
Safety
Handling and having dry ice around might present a risk.
Accuracy
I couldn’t find any reliable information regarding the accuracy of this method. I’m going to assume that it is about the same as the Bedbug Beacon although a lot depends on how good your design is and how closely you keep an eye on your dry ice.
Learn More
This link at Rutgers has step by step instructions and pictures.