Crickets may seem harmless, but their constant chirping, property damage, and surprise appearances in basements or bathrooms can quickly turn them into an unwelcome nuisance. Whether it’s the common house cricket or the notorious cave cricket, these jumping insects can be surprisingly persistent once they settle indoors.
So what can you do? Trapping is one of the most effective non-chemical methods to deal with crickets. In this blog, we’ll explore the best cricket traps, how they work, and how to use them effectively. If you’re wondering how to trap a cricket that actually works, you’re in the right place.
Why Trapping Crickets Is Effective
Unlike flying insects, crickets move by hopping or crawling, often staying close to walls and dark corners. This makes them ideal candidates for traps, especially in high-traffic cricket zones like basements, laundry rooms, garages, and crawl spaces. While other control methods like sprays or baits can be effective, traps offer a chemical-free, targeted solution that lets you monitor cricket activity over time.
Types of Cricket Traps
There are several types of traps you can use, and each has its own strengths. Here’s a look at the most effective ones:
1. Sticky Glue Traps
Best for: Indoor use, especially in basements and near baseboards.
Sticky traps are flat panels covered in a powerful adhesive. Crickets walk over them and get stuck, unable to escape. These traps are simple, inexpensive, and non-toxic, making them a popular choice for homeowners.
Pro Tip: Place traps along walls or near moisture-rich areas, which are favorite hiding spots for crickets.
2. Baited Traps
Best for: Targeted trapping near entry points or in garages.
These traps combine a food attractant (like molasses, bread, or even cat food) with an enclosed sticky or pitfall trap. Crickets are drawn in by the scent and get trapped once inside. Some commercially available versions come ready to use, while others can be DIYed using a jar and bait.
3. Pitfall Traps
Best for: DIY enthusiasts and long-term monitoring.
A pitfall trap is essentially a container sunk into the floor or ground where crickets fall in and can’t climb out. You can place a little bait at the bottom and use petroleum jelly around the inner rim to prevent escape.
Caution: These are best used in low-traffic areas to avoid accidents.
4. Light Traps
Best for: Attics, crawl spaces, or garages.
Crickets are attracted to light. Light traps combine a bulb with a sticky board or an electric grid to lure and eliminate them. However, because they require a power source, they’re not always ideal for small or crowded indoor spaces.
5. Commercial Cricket Traps
Best for: Homeowners who want a set-it-and-forget-it option.
Many pest control companies and hardware stores sell ready-made cricket traps designed specifically for different cricket species. These are highly effective, long-lasting, and usually pet-safe.
If you’re wondering where to find help nearby, searching for cricket control near me can point you to local professionals with access to commercial-grade traps and treatments.
Where to Place Cricket Traps
The effectiveness of a trap often comes down to placement. Here’s where to set yours:
- Basements and crawl spaces – Crickets love dark, damp environments.
- Garage corners – Especially near stored boxes or tools.
- Laundry rooms – Heat and moisture attract them.
- Behind appliances – The warmth from electronics makes a perfect hiding spot.
- Along baseboards and walls – Crickets tend to stick to the perimeter of rooms.
Place multiple traps around these areas for best results. Check traps regularly and replace them when they’re full or dusty.
Tips for Successful Trapping
To maximize your cricket trap strategy, keep the following tips in mind:
Reduce Attractants
Crickets are drawn to food crumbs, moisture, and warm areas. Fix any leaks, reduce clutter, and vacuum regularly to remove food particles and eggs.
Eliminate Entry Points
Seal cracks in walls, around windows, and near utility pipes. Crickets often get inside through small openings during seasonal transitions.
Use Traps in Combination
Don’t rely on one type of trap alone. Use sticky traps alongside light traps or bait stations for more comprehensive control.
Monitor for Patterns
Keep track of where crickets are being caught. This helps you identify entry points and adjust your prevention efforts accordingly.
When Traps Aren’t Enough
While traps can be effective, they might not fully eliminate a large or persistent infestation. Crickets reproduce quickly and hide well, making it difficult to tackle the problem completely with DIY traps alone. In these cases, a professional approach is your best bet.
If you’re dealing with repeated infestations or high cricket activity, contacting an expert in Newton pest control can help address both the current problem and prevent future issues. Professional exterminators have access to tools and techniques that aren’t available over the counter.
For homeowners searching for a reliable exterminator Newton NJ, PermaKill Exterminating provides trusted and scientifically backed pest control solutions that are safe for families and pets.
About PermaKill Exterminating
PermaKill Exterminating is your local partner in creating pest-free environments across Newton, NJ, and surrounding areas. We’re a family-owned, independently operated pest control company that believes in honest service, proven results, and personalized care.
Our team doesn’t just treat your home, we study the behavior of each pest to ensure we use the most effective and environmentally responsible treatments available. Whether you’re dealing with crickets in your basement or seasonal invaders around your property, we offer solutions built on science, safety, and real customer relationships.
