If you’re from the Southern U.S., you already know: lovebugs aren’t cute—they’re a nuisance.
These black-and-red flying pests show up like clockwork—once in late spring and again in early fall. And when they do, they show no mercy.
They coat your windshield.
They stick to your skin.
They float around you like tiny, winged critics.
And when they gather around your porch lights, pool, or patio, it’s like being trapped in your own backyard horror movie.
But what if you could drastically reduce their numbers using nothing but two items from your bathroom—no pesticides, no bug zappers, and no expensive exterminators?
Let’s break down a simple trick from Stephanie White Nelson that went viral—and for good reason. With just a bowl and some baby oil, she created a lovebug trap that actually works. Here’s how to try it yourself.
💡 What Are Lovebugs, Really?
Scientific Name: Plecia nearctica
Nickname: Lovebugs—because they’re always
found in pairs.
They don’t bite, sting, or carry disease. Technically harmless, sure—but they’re ridiculously irritating.
Here’s why they’re a problem:
They splatter on your car and their acidic remains can damage paint
They swarm outdoor events
They cling to windows, clothes, and hair
They clog up windshields and make relaxing outdoors impossible
Their adult life spans only a few days—but during that short window, they make their presence very
known.
🧪 The Viral Lovebug Trap That Gets the Job Done
Here’s the magic: it’s so easy, it almost feels made-up.
You’ll Need:
A white bowl (filled halfway with water)
2–3 tablespoons of baby oil or mineral oil
Optional: A small rock to weigh it down outdoors
How to Use It:
Fill the bowl halfway with water.
Add the baby oil on top.
Place the bowl in lovebug-prone areas—like your porch, patio, poolside, or windowsills.
Leave it. That’s it.
What Happens Next:
Lovebugs are drawn to:
Light colors (especially white)
Moisture
Still surfaces they can land on
Once they land on the oily water, they’re stuck. The oil traps them, they can’t fly off, and they eventually drown.
✅ Pro Tip: Refresh the trap daily to keep it working at its best.
🧪 Why This Hack Works So Well
The baby oil creates a slick film across the surface of the water. When lovebugs land:
They can’t get a grip
They get stuck in the oil
They can’t take off again
No chemicals. No harsh smells. And it’s safe around pets, kids, and gardens
Does It Work on Other Bugs?
Yes! While it’s lovebug-specific, this trap has been effective on:
Fruit flies
Drone flies
Wasps (sometimes)
Wood bees
Bonus Tip for Wood Bees: Place a wood board with drilled holes nearby to attract females looking to nest. Later, you can seal or treat the wood to prevent future infestations.
🚗 Keep Lovebugs Off Your Car
Your car is a prime target during swarm season. Here’s how to protect it:
Wash it regularly
Apply a fresh coat of wax
Park in shaded or covered areas
The wax adds a barrier that makes lovebug goo easier to wash off—and protects your paint from damage.
🌿 Natural Ways to Deter Lovebugs
Want to make your yard less appealing to these pests? Try these tricks:
Turn off outdoor lights at night: They’re attracted to bright white bulbs.
Skip strong perfumes: Sweet or floral scents lure them in.
Use fans on patios: Moving air throws off their flight path.
Plant marigolds or citronella: These natural repellents work against many flying bugs.
Clean up debris and dead plants: They love nectar and decomposing organic matter.
Keep food and drinks covered: Especially sugary ones—they’re lovebug magnets.
⚠️ When Not to Use This Trap
This hack is great—but not perfect for every situation.
Avoid using it:
Near pollinator-attracting plants (you don’t want to harm bees or butterflies)
Close to ponds, lakes, or protected wildlife areas
Where young kids might reach it without supervision
Remember: lovebugs are seasonal. They’ll disappear in a few weeks—but this trap helps you stay sane in the meantime.
Final Thoughts: Smart Fixes, Simple Tools
When bugs take over, your first instinct might be to grab the nearest can of spray.
But sometimes, the best solution is already in your bathroom.
Thanks to one viral tip, you can reclaim your outdoor space with nothing more than a bowl, some water, and baby oil.
So next time the lovebugs roll in?
Don’t freak out
Don’t cancel your plans
Don’t coat your yard in chemicals
Just set the trap and let it do the work.
Because sometimes, the simplest hacks really are the smartest.