Fly paper is a simple insect control device, typically consisting of a paper or plastic strip coated with a sticky substance to physically trap flying pests. Many people worry about the safety of these traps, especially in homes with children or pets. Modern fly paper has low acute chemical toxicity to humans, meaning the ingredients are not readily poisonous. While the risk of chemical poisoning is low, the potential for physical harm from the extremely sticky material remains a real concern. Understanding the composition and managing the physical hazards are key to safe use.
What Fly Paper Is Made Of
The modern fly paper formulation is designed for physical entrapment without relying on chemical insecticides. The adhesive component is most often a non-volatile, non-toxic mixture of synthetic polymers, such as polyisobutylene, combined with petroleum distillates, natural resins, or oils. These substances are chosen for their extreme tackiness and durability, ensuring insects remain stuck upon contact. To attract flies, the adhesive layer also contains sweet substances like sugar, molasses, or scented derivatives like vanillin.
This composition differs significantly from historical fly paper, which is the source of public concern over toxicity. Older formulations, particularly those sold in the 19th and early 20th centuries, often incorporated potent chemical poisons. These older strips sometimes contained highly toxic compounds like arsenic trioxide. Some pest strips also historically used organophosphate neurotoxins, such as dichlorvos, which are very harmful to humans and animals. Today’s standard sticky fly traps rely on physical glue rather than these dangerous chemical agents.
Understanding the Toxicity Risk
The concern over toxicity must be divided into chemical risk and physical hazard, with the physical danger being the greater threat in modern products. From a chemical perspective, the polybutene and resin-based adhesives are classified as non-hazardous, meaning they do not present a systemic poisoning risk. If a small amount is accidentally swallowed, the primary effect is usually mild gastrointestinal irritation, potentially leading to nausea or vomiting. This reaction stems from the inert, foreign nature of the sticky substance, not from corrosive ingredients.
The most serious danger from fly paper exposure is the physical hazard, especially involving children or pets. If a large piece of the paper or glue is ingested, the sticky material can clump together in the stomach or intestines. This clumping creates a risk of physical obstruction, which can be a serious medical emergency requiring intervention. A choking hazard is also present if a small child attempts to swallow the entire strip.
Contact with the adhesive can also lead to localized irritation. Direct skin contact may cause mild irritation or, in sensitive individuals, contact dermatitis characterized by redness and itching. If the adhesive gets into the eyes, it is primarily a physical irritant, potentially causing discomfort, redness, or the sensation of having grit in the eye. Any prolonged physical contact should be addressed promptly, even though the material is not chemically corrosive.
Safe Handling and Emergency Response
The most effective safety measure is proper placement, meaning keeping fly paper strips out of the reach of children and household pets. When handling or disposing of used strips, wear gloves to prevent the adhesive from sticking to your skin. Always secure the sticky material in a sealed bag before placing it in the trash to prevent accidental contact.
If the adhesive contacts skin or hair, do not attempt to rip the material off, as this can damage the skin. Instead, the glue must be dissolved using an oil-based substance. Apply a small amount of cooking oil, vegetable oil, or mineral oil to the affected area and gently massage it into the adhesive until the glue begins to solubilize. Once the stickiness is neutralized, the area can be thoroughly washed with mild soap and warm water.
Emergency Response for Ingestion and Eye Contact
In the event of eye exposure, flush the eyes immediately and thoroughly with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, or redness persists after flushing, seek medical attention immediately. If ingestion is suspected or confirmed, do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this can cause further complications. Give the person a small amount of water to drink, and immediately contact a physician or Poison Control Center for guidance on assessing the obstruction risk.