9 Best Light Bulbs That Keep Bugs Away Without Sacrificing Glow

Bug-repelling light bulbs really can keep insects away without leaving you in the dark. The trick is warm yellow or amber light paired with efficient LED technology.

Many of these bulbs, like UNILAMP’s 9W or Feit Electric’s 5W options, fit standard sockets and match the glow of traditional bulbs while using less power.

Below, see how these bulbs work, where they shine, and which ones deserve a spot on your porch or patio.

Best Light Bulb Picks That Keep Bugs Away

UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs 4 Pack UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs, A19 Outdoor Yellow Bug Energy Saver PackBase Type: Standard E26 baseWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Warm yellow glowVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
A19 LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs 2-Pack Dorillo A19 LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs, 8.5W for Porch, Cozy Ambiance DuoBase Type: Standard E26 baseWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: 2400K amber glow (yellow)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
L LOHAS 40W Equivalent Amber Porch Light Bulbs (4 Pack) L LOHAS LED 40W Equivalent A19 Amber Porch Light Bulbs, Smart Sensor LightsBase Type: Standard E26 baseWattage Equivalent: 40W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow (2000K amber)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs 2-Pack 9W Amber JAHEKS LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs for Outdoor Indoor Porch, Versatile Amber GlowBase Type: Standard E26 baseWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Amber yellow light (2000K)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light, 60-Watt Equivalent, Non-Dimmable Long-Lasting ClassicBase Type: E26 Medium baseWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow lightVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light, 100-Watt Equivalent, Dimmable High-Powered DimmableBase Type: E26 Medium baseWattage Equivalent: 100W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow lightVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
JandCase 12W Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs (2 Pack) JandCase LED Bug Lights for Outside, 12W Yellow Bug Light Powerful Floodlight PairBase Type: E26 baseWattage Equivalent: 100W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow (2000K)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs Dusk to Dawn Bug Light Bulb Outdoor - 60W Equivalent Auto On/Off ConvenienceBase Type: Standard E26 socketWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow wavelength lightVIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis
Bug Lights Outdoor 60W Equivalent Yellow LED Bulbs Bug Lights for Outside, Bug Light Bulbs, 60W Yellow Light Eco-Friendly GlowBase Type: Standard E26 medium screw baseWattage Equivalent: 60W equivalentBug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength: Yellow light (amber)VIEW LATEST PRICERead Our Analysis

More Details on Our Top Picks

  1. UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs 4 Pack

    UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs, A19 Outdoor Yellow Bug

    Energy Saver Pack

    View Latest Price

    Should you be someone who loves spending evenings outside but hates managing pesky bugs, the UNILAMP Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs are a game changer. These bulbs emit a warm yellow glow that bugs just don’t find appealing, so you get a peaceful, bug-free space. They use only 9 watts but shine as brightly as a 60-watt bulb, saving you energy and money. With a lifespan over 20,000 hours, you won’t be swapping bulbs often. Plus, their standard base fits most fixtures, making it simple to brighten your porch, patio, or deck with cozy, bug-repelling light.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 base
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Warm yellow glow
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):9W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (porches, patios, decks), also table lamps etc.
    • Lifespan (Hours):Over 20,000 hours
    • Additional Feature:Warm yellow amber glow
    • Additional Feature:Standard E26 base fit
    • Additional Feature:Cozy, sleep-enhancing light
  2. A19 LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs 2-Pack

    Dorillo A19 LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs, 8.5W for Porch,

    Cozy Ambiance Duo

    View Latest Price

    Should you love spending time outdoors but dread the swarm of bugs that come with it, the A19 LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs are a perfect match for you. These bulbs emit a warm 2400K amber glow that feels cozy and inviting while their special wavelength keeps bugs at bay. You’ll appreciate how they use just 8.5 watts but shine as bright as a 60-watt bulb, helping you save on energy bills without losing brightness. They fit standard E26 sockets, so installation is easy both inside and in sheltered outdoor spots. Enjoy peaceful evenings without unwanted buzzing guests.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 base
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:2400K amber glow (yellow)
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):8.5W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Indoor and outdoor (weather-protected)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Not specified explicitly
    • Additional Feature:Special bug-deterring wavelength
    • Additional Feature:2400K amber warm light
    • Additional Feature:Suitable for indoor/outdoor use
  3. L LOHAS 40W Equivalent Amber Porch Light Bulbs (4 Pack)

    L LOHAS LED 40W Equivalent A19 Amber Porch Light Bulbs,

    Smart Sensor Lights

    View Latest Price

    Should you love spending evenings outside but hate the swarm of bugs that come with it, the L LOHAS 40W Equivalent Amber Porch Light Bulbs are a great fit for your outdoor spaces. These bulbs emit a warm amber glow at 2000K, creating a cozy atmosphere while keeping bugs at bay. Thanks to their dusk-to-dawn sensor, they automatically switch on as the sun sets and off at sunrise, making your life easier. They save energy through using only 6 watts but shine like a 40-watt bulb. Plus, they’re safe—no mercury, lead, or harmful UV light—perfect for family areas like patios and decks.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 base
    • Wattage Equivalent:40W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow (2000K amber)
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):6W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (patios, decks, backyards, hallways, stairways)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Long lifespan (exact hours not specified)
    • Additional Feature:Dusk to dawn sensor
    • Additional Feature:No UV or IR emission
    • Additional Feature:Lead and mercury free
  4. LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs 2-Pack 9W Amber

    JAHEKS LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs for Outdoor Indoor Porch,

    Versatile Amber Glow

    View Latest Price

    Should you love spending evenings on your porch or patio without the nuisance of bugs, the LED Yellow Bug Light Bulbs 2-Pack, 9W Amber, is a smart choice for you. These bulbs shine with a warm 2000K amber glow that bugs just don’t like, helping keep your space peaceful and pest-free. They fit standard E26 fixtures, making installation a breeze in ceiling fans, lamps, or wall sconces. Plus, they save you up to 80% on electricity bills while lasting 20,000 hours. You’ll enjoy cozy, bug-free nights indoors and outdoors without sacrificing light quality or comfort.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 base
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Amber yellow light (2000K)
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):9W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Indoor and outdoor (porches, patios, decks, gardens, garages)
    • Lifespan (Hours):20,000 hours
    • Additional Feature:Broad indoor/outdoor use
    • Additional Feature:Saves 80% energy
    • Additional Feature:Enhances melatonin release
  5. Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb

    Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light, 60-Watt Equivalent, Non-Dimmable

    Long-Lasting Classic

    View Latest Price

    Should you love spending evenings outside but dread the swarm of bugs that usually come with it, the Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb is designed just for you. This yellow light creates a cozy bug-free atmosphere without harsh chemicals, perfect for patios, walkways, or camping trips. It replaces a 60-watt bulb with only 5 watts, saving you up to 92% on energy. Plus, it lasts up to 19 years, so you won’t need to change it often. With its UL listing and FCC compliance, you get safe, reliable lighting that keeps bugs at bay.

    • Base Type:E26 Medium base
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow light
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):5W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (patios, terraces, walkways, camping)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Up to 19 years (~estimate based on usage)
    • Additional Feature:UL listed and FCC compliant
    • Additional Feature:10x longer lifespan
    • Additional Feature:Eliminates chemical pesticides
  6. Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb

    Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light, 100-Watt Equivalent, Dimmable

    High-Powered Dimmable

    View Latest Price

    Should you want a bug light that works great for outdoor spaces like patios and walkways, the Feit Electric A19 Outdoor LED Bug Light Bulb is a solid choice. It glows with a warm yellow light that naturally keeps bugs away, making your evenings outside more enjoyable. You’ll appreciate how it uses only 5 watts yet shines as bright as a 100-watt bulb, saving you energy without dimming your mood. This bulb lasts up to 19 years, so you won’t need to replace it often. Plus, it’s dimmable and safe, meeting high-quality standards for worry-free use.

    • Base Type:E26 Medium base
    • Wattage Equivalent:100W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow light
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):5W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (patios, terraces, walkways, camping)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Up to 19 years (~estimate based on usage)
    • Additional Feature:Dimmable LED bulb
    • Additional Feature:800 lumens brightness
    • Additional Feature:40+ years lighting legacy
  7. JandCase 12W Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs (2 Pack)

    JandCase LED Bug Lights for Outside, 12W Yellow Bug Light

    Powerful Floodlight Pair

    View Latest Price

    Should you enjoy evenings on your porch or patio but want to keep bugs from crashing the party, the JandCase 12W Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs are a smart pick. These bulbs use a special light range that bugs dislike, so they stay away without annoying buzzing sounds. You’ll get bright, warm light instantly—about 1000 lumens—without glare or flicker, making your space cozy and inviting. They use just 12 watts, saving you up to 90% on electricity compared to traditional 100W bulbs. Plus, their waterproof design fits outdoor fixtures perfectly, so you can relax bug-free and energy-wise.

    • Base Type:E26 base
    • Wattage Equivalent:100W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow (2000K)
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):12W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (porches, patios, soffits)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Longer lifespan than incandescent (exact hours not specified)
    • Additional Feature:IP54 waterproof rating
    • Additional Feature:Flicker and glare free
    • Additional Feature:CRI 80Ra color accuracy
  8. Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Yellow LED Bug Light Bulbs

    Dusk to Dawn Bug Light Bulb Outdoor - 60W Equivalent

    Auto On/Off Convenience

    View Latest Price

    Should you love spending evenings outdoors but hate managing pesky bugs, the Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Yellow LED Bug Light Bulb is a game changer. This 9W bulb shines as bright as a 60W incandescent, lighting up your porch or patio with an inviting warm yellow glow that bugs just don’t like. It turns on automatically at dusk and off at dawn, so you don’t have to worry about flipping switches. With a long lifespan over 25,000 hours, it saves you frequent replacements and cuts your energy bills through more than 90%. Just screw it into any standard E26 socket, and enjoy bug-free nights effortlessly.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 socket
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow wavelength light
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):9W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (porches, patios, decks, driveways, garages)
    • Lifespan (Hours):25,000+ hours
    • Additional Feature:Auto on/off at dusk/dawn
    • Additional Feature:800 lumens brightness output
    • Additional Feature:Bulb flashing adjustment note
  9. Bug Lights Outdoor 60W Equivalent Yellow LED Bulbs

    Bug Lights for Outside, Bug Light Bulbs, 60W Yellow Light

    Eco-Friendly Glow

    View Latest Price

    Should you enjoy spending evenings on your porch or patio, these Bug Lights Outdoor 60W Equivalent Yellow LED Bulbs are a perfect fit for you. They emit a gentle amber glow that keeps bugs at bay without harsh flickering or glare. You’ll appreciate the easy installation with a standard E26 screw base. These bulbs use safe, non-toxic materials, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals. Plus, their light encourages melatonin release, helping you relax outdoors as though you’re winding down for a peaceful night’s sleep. These bulbs improve your outdoor moments with comfort and calm.

    • Base Type:Standard E26 medium screw base
    • Wattage Equivalent:60W equivalent
    • Bug Repellent Light Color / Wavelength:Yellow light (amber)
    • Energy Consumption (LED Wattage):9W LED
    • Indoor/Outdoor Use:Outdoor (porch lights)
    • Lifespan (Hours):Not specified explicitly
    • Additional Feature:No flicker, zero glare
    • Additional Feature:Environmentally friendly materials
    • Additional Feature:Melatonin-stimulating yellow flux

Factors to Consider When Choosing Light Bulbs To Keep Bugs Away

Choosing the right light bulb to keep bugs away involves several key factors that affect both effectiveness and convenience. Light wavelength plays an essential role since certain colors attract fewer insects, while energy efficiency and brightness impact cost and comfort. Additionally, considering installation compatibility, durability, and lifespan guarantees the bulb fits well and lasts long without frequent replacements.

Light Wavelength Importance

Upon selecting light bulbs to keep bugs away, the wavelength of the light they emit plays a key role in how insects respond. Light bulbs that emit wavelengths in the yellow and amber range, typically around 2000K to 2400K, are less attractive to most bugs.

This warm yellow glow disrupts insect vision, making them less likely to swarm around your light source. Unlike white or blue lights, which bugs find irresistible, these softer hues create a comfortable, bug-free atmosphere. Using LED bulbs designed with these wavelengths can reduce the need for chemical repellents while enhancing outdoor spaces. Choosing the right wavelength not only keeps pests away but also preserves a pleasant ambiance, making your outdoor time more enjoyable and peaceful.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

While keeping bugs away is a top priority, energy efficiency plays an equally significant role in selecting outdoor light bulbs. Energy-efficient bulbs use much less power than traditional incandescent ones yet deliver the same brightness, which means lower electricity bills.

For instance, a 9-watt LED can replace a 60-watt incandescent, saving about 85 to 90 percent in energy. Many of these bulbs also shine in wavelengths that bugs dislike, giving you two benefits in one. Choosing bulbs that last over 20,000 hours means fewer replacements, reducing waste and cost over time. Look for bulbs with high lumens per watt ratings to get the brightest glow for the least energy. This careful selection guarantees your outdoor space stays well-lit and bug-free without wasting power.

Bulb Brightness Levels

Brightness plays an essential role in selecting outdoor light bulbs that keep bugs at bay. Bug bulbs often match the glow of traditional 60W or 100W incandescent bulbs, providing between 600 to 800 lumens.

This offers enough light for outdoor spaces without inviting unwanted insects. Choosing bulbs with a warm yellow glow, around 2000K to 2400K, not only deters bugs but also creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Energy use is low, typically between 5W and 12W, which means you save power while enjoying bright light. It’s also wise to select non-dimmable bulbs, as dimming can change the light’s wavelengths and reduce their bug-repelling power. These factors guarantee you get the perfect balance of brightness and bug control for your outdoor lighting.

Installation Compatibility

Choosing the right bulb brightness is only part of the equation when it comes to keeping bugs away. Installation compatibility plays a key role in ensuring your chosen bulb works seamlessly with your fixtures. To begin, verify the bulb has a standard E26 base, which fits most ceiling fans, lamps, and outdoor lights.

Next, check the wattage equivalent to balance brightness and energy efficiency. Consider where you plan to install the bulb—indoor or outdoor bulbs differ, especially in weather resistance. Bulb size and shape matter, too, to avoid awkward fits or installation trouble. Finally, opt for bulbs with straightforward instructions so you won’t need extra tools or guesswork. These factors help users enjoy bug-repelling light without frustrating setup problems.

Durability and Lifespan

Many light bulbs designed to keep bugs away also stand out for their impressive durability and lifespan. Yellow bug bulbs often last more than 20,000 hours, which means fewer replacements compared to regular bulbs. LED versions can shine even longer, sometimes up to 25,000 hours, making them reliable for outdoor use.

This durability saves money on maintenance and helps the environment through reducing waste. Outdoor-rated bulbs are built tough to handle rain, wind, and temperature changes, so they keep working regardless of the weather. Choosing bulbs made with strong materials and safety certifications adds another layer of reliability. At the time of selecting a bulb, consider both how long it will last and how well it holds up to outdoor conditions to enjoy bright light without frequent trips to the store.

Indoor Vs Outdoor Use

Where does the difference between indoor and outdoor bug light bulbs really matter? Indoors, bulbs focus on creating a warm, cozy atmosphere with amber or yellow hues that relax the mind while keeping bugs at bay. These bulbs are often softer and less bright, matching the intimate setting of a home. Outdoors, however, the priority shifts to stronger illumination and bug-repelling features that work well in open spaces like patios or decks. These bulbs use special wavelengths that bugs avoid, balancing brightness and energy efficiency. Additionally, outdoor bulbs tend to last longer, built for harsh weather and frequent use. While picking between indoor and outdoor bug lights, consider the setting’s comfort needs versus durability and bug defense. This careful choice guarantees the perfect glow without inviting unwanted guests.

Health and Safety Benefits

Although bugs can be a pesky nuisance, using the right light bulbs can make a big difference for your health and safety. Light bulbs that emit amber or yellow wavelengths reduce bug attraction, so you don’t have to rely on chemical sprays. These bulbs often avoid ultraviolet and infrared light, which helps protect your skin and eyes from harmful radiation.

Plus, yellow bulbs can even support better sleep by encouraging melatonin release, creating a calm outdoor space. Energy-efficient LED bulbs designed to repel insects last longer, meaning fewer replacements and less waste. This also benefits the environment. Whenever bugs stay away, you can enjoy peaceful evenings outside without irritation, improving relaxation and mental wellness. Choosing these bulbs offers a safer, healthier way to light your home and protect your family.

Special Features and Sensors

Choosing the right light bulbs to keep bugs away involves more than just the color of the light. Special features like built-in dusk to dawn sensors add convenience through turning bulbs on automatically at night and off during the day, saving energy without any effort. Bulbs designed with specific yellow wavelengths repel insects effectively, guaranteeing fewer bugs gather around your space.

Opting for non-dimmable LED bulbs provides steady illumination while maintaining the bug-repelling light range. It’s also wise to select bulbs with high energy efficiency ratings to lower electricity costs without sacrificing brightness. For outdoor use, waterproof bulbs assure durability and reliable performance despite weather changes. These thoughtful features make it easier to enjoy well-lit, bug-free areas comfortably and efficiently.

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Gardening Editorial Team
Gardening Editorial Team

Founded to help gardeners grow healthy, thriving plants, our team of experienced horticulturists and gardening experts carefully researches and produces content grounded in practical knowledge and proven techniques.