Do Outdoor Lights Attract Roaches? (Important Facts!)

I’ve always wondered if different types of outdoor lights attract different types of bugs. “Do outdoor lights attract roaches?” This is the exact question my wife asked me last weekend when we were talking about our recent cockroach infestation in the backyard.

Our home has been under remodel for about six months now. We are almost done but it has been a real pain keeping pests away from our house since we moved back in this past April.

Outdoor lights can attract large numbers of insects, including roaches. It’s important to remember that these lights can also attract other species, such as mice, squirrels, and bats, which can all pose health risks to your home.

Now that you know the answer to the question “do outdoor lights attract roaches?” let’s finish up by talking about some other common questions people ask about outdoor lights. One of the most common questions is what type of light will repel roaches and what are some of the most common mistakes people make when thinking about outdoor lighting and how to keep roaches away.

Why do Lights Attract Roaches?

When it comes to outdoor lighting, there are a few reasons why insects like roaches might be attracted to these lights. First of all, you have the obvious reason that light attracts bugs. If you’re trying to repel them then obviously they aren’t going to be repelled by the light, but if you want them gone then using some type of insect repellent will do the trick.

Another reason is that many people don’t realize how bright their outdoor lights really are. It used to be common for homeowners to use incandescent bulbs on their exterior security lights or other types of exterior lighting fixtures because they were cheap and easy to find at local hardware stores.

However today most people choose LED lights because they are more efficient and last longer. While these lights may be more energy efficient, they also tend to be brighter than incandescent bulbs which can attract a lot of unwanted bugs

Tips to Keep Roaches Away

There are several things that you can do to keep roaches out of your yard or away from a specific light.

First, you may want to consider putting in some type of bug repellent that will help get rid of any insects that are drawn towards the lights while also preventing future infestations.

The best way to get rid of these bugs is by using an insecticide and baiting them with food so they are attracted to the bait instead of the light source. If you use this method then it’s important to make sure that there aren’t any other sources for them nearby such as trash cans or dumpsters because they could easily find their way into those areas if given a chance.

Another option is using some type of yellow lighting which will help repel insects. This type of lighting is typically used in outdoor areas where you may not want bugs to congregate such as the kitchen or bathroom.

If you are worried about attracting rodents then it’s a good idea to use a light that has an ultraviolet coating on it because this will scare off most animals and prevent them from coming into your yard.

Other Bugs That Outdoor Lights May Attract

Many homeowners enjoy having outdoor lights installed around their property. However, these lights may attract other bugs such as spiders, wasps, bees, ants, etc. These pests can cause damage to plants and trees if left unchecked. 

Learn more about the types of bugs attracted by outdoor lighting below.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes have long been known to be attracted to bright lights. They like to hang around outside during the day looking for prey. When mosquitoes come indoors at night, they often look for places near windows and doors to lay eggs. The easiest way to control mosquito populations is to install screens over windows and doorways. You should also check window and screen covers regularly to ensure that they don’t become damaged or allow mosquitos access inside.

Ants

There are many different species of ant that live all across North America. Some ants eat plant roots and others feed on decaying matter. Most ants prefer dry environments, but some thrive in moist conditions. In order to deter ants, place potted plants close to walkways and patios. Use natural materials such as mulch and wood chips rather than plastic bags or Styrofoam containers. Avoid leaving pet foods unattended overnight since ants tend to gather around animal waste.

Spiders

Spiders love warm weather and dark spaces. Many spider webs are found outdoors, especially along walls and fences. Spider bites usually itch, but sometimes they can lead to serious infections. To avoid getting bitten by spiders, wear shoes when walking through grassy areas. Also, try placing sticky traps under furniture legs and behind baseboards to catch wandering spiders before they enter homes.

Wasps

Wasps build nests underground and above ground. Their stingers contain formic acid, which causes severe pain and swelling. Wasp venom contains histamines, which trigger allergic reactions. Be careful when handling firewood; wasp larvae may be hidden within logs. Remove dead leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to reduce nesting sites.