When it comes to lighting up your outdoor space, the last thing you want is a swarm of bugs ruining your evening. However, not all outdoor lights are created equal when it comes to bug attraction. In this article, we will explore how different types of light bulbs affect bug attraction and which outdoor lights are the best for bug-free evenings in your yard or garden.

The Bug-Attracting Light Bulb Experiment

light bulb with tons of flys

 

In 2016, two scientists from the University of North Carolina conducted a summer-long experiment to test which types of light bulbs attract the most bugs. Each night, they set up a bug trap and turned on a different type of bulb to observe the results. Over the summer, nearly 9,000 bugs were caught, and the results were clear.

The experiment found that incandescent bulbs attracted the most bugs, followed by CFL, halogen, LED with a cool color temperature, and standard "bug" lights. On the other hand, warm LED bulbs, yellow "bug" lights, and halogen lights attracted the least number of bugs.

The Best Outdoor Lights for Bug-Free Evenings

LeonLite® Escavatori Path & Area Light - 3000K/5000K

 

While all outdoor lights attract bugs to some extent, there are certain types of bulbs that attract fewer bugs than others. Here are the top three outdoor lights that don't attract bugs, ranked from the least to most attractive:

  1. Warm LED Bulbs: These bulbs emit a warm, yellow-orange light that is less attractive to bugs than the cool, blue-tinted light of other LED bulbs. Leonlite offers a variety of warm LED bulbs that are perfect for outdoor use.

  2. Yellow "Bug" Lights: These lights have a yellow tint that makes them less appealing to bugs than other types of bulbs. They are specifically designed to repel bugs and are a great option for outdoor lighting.

  3. Halogen Lights: These bulbs emit a bright, white light that is less attractive to bugs than other types of bulbs. They are also energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a great choice for outdoor use.

Other Tips for Reducing Bug Attraction

In addition to choosing the right type of light bulbs, there are other steps you can take to reduce the number of bugs attracted to your outdoor lighting. Here are a few tips:

  • Avoid placing outdoor lights near windows or patio doors, as bugs may be drawn to the light inside your home.

  • Clean up any standing water in your yard, as this can attract mosquitoes.

  • Use bug repellent candles or sprays to keep bugs away from your outdoor space.

  • Keep your outdoor area clean and free of debris, as this can attract bugs.

cartoon butterfly around a lighting bulb

Conclusion

Choosing the right outdoor lights can make a big difference in the number of bugs attracted to your yard or garden. Warm LED bulbs, yellow "bug" lights, and halogen lights are all great options for bug-free evenings. Additionally, taking steps to reduce bug attraction, such as avoiding placing lights near windows and keeping your outdoor space clean, can further minimize the number of bugs in your outdoor area. With the right lighting and a few simple tips, you can enjoy a bug-free evening in your outdoor space.