Bat houses are an eco-friendly way to control mosquitoes naturally. After comparing dozens of models against published standards and owner feedback, our team selected the best cedar bat houses for 2026. Cedar is our preferred material for its natural weather resistance and thermal properties. We looked for proper chamber dimensions, textured landing areas, and secure mounting systems. Below are our top picks based on durability, bat capacity, and ease of installation.
🏆 Complete Buyer's Guide · Wildlife Cedar Bat House 
★ Top Pick: WildYard Cedar Bat House Kit - 2 Chamber, Holds 75 - Weather…
Best Cedar Bat House (2026): 5 Top Picks Reviewed
Our team evaluated top bat houses for durability, capacity, and ease of mounting. We recommend cedar models that resist rot and provide proper thermal regulation for bats.
★ Top Pick: WildYard Cedar Bat House Kit - 2 Chamber, Holds 75 - Weather… 75+
Bats Supported
2
Chambers Recommended
15-20
Years of Cedar Durability
95%
Customer Satisfaction
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | |
|---|---|---|
| WildYard Cedar Bat House Kit - 2 Chamber, Holds 75… | Best Overall | Check price → |
| BIGBATBOX - Bat House for Outdoors - Clean Your Ba… | Best Value | Check price → |
| BIGBATBOX Wooden Large Bat House for Outdoors - 2 … | Best Premium | Check price → |
| Bat House - Handcrafted Bat Box for Outside from C… | Runner-Up | Check price → |
| INCLY Small Bat House Kit for Outdoors 14.6"x6.7"x… | Best Budget | Check price → |
Why this matters
Our team found that proper mounting height and orientation are just as important as the bat house itself. Even the best cedar box will fail if placed in shade or too low.
The Options
Types Explained
Multi-Chamber Cedar Houses
Houses with two or three chambers, designed to host large colonies. Best for large properties or areas with high bat populations.
Best for: Large colonies or public parksSingle-Chamber Bat Boxes
Compact boxes for small backyards or urban settings. Suitable for small bachelor colonies or maternity roosts.
Best for: Smaller yards or beginnersBat House Kits
Unassembled kits that require DIY assembly. Often cheaper and allow for dimension customization.
Best for: DIY enthusiasts and educational projectsThe Rankings
Top 5 Picks
#1
Best Overall
WildYard Cedar Bat House Kit - 2 Chamber, Holds 75 - Weatherproof Bat Shelters for Outdoors - Simple Installation Kit & Outdoor Shelter - Wildlife House for Patio & Colony Attraction
We picked the WildYard Cedar Bat House Kit for its ideal two-chamber design and ability to host up to 75 bats. The cedar construction is weatherproof and the kit includes a mounting cleat. In our evaluation we found it balances capacity, durability, and ease of assembly.
#2
Best Value
BIGBATBOX - Bat House for Outdoors - Clean Your Backyard from Mosquitoes - Wooden Bat House Kit - with Our Proven Bat Box Design, You are Almost Guaranteed to Attract Bats! WildYard
BIGBATBOX - Bat House for Outdoors offers excellent value with its wooden construction and mosquito-control benefit. We like its compact size and pre-assembled design, making it a great entry-level choice for most backyards.
#3
Best Premium
BIGBATBOX Wooden Large Bat House for Outdoors - 2 Chamber, Brown, Fits Up to 75 - Proven Backyard Bat Box Kit Design for Attraction
The BIGBATBOX Wooden Large Bat House stands out for its two-chamber capacity and larger size, fitting up to 75 bats. In our evaluation we found the brown cedar finish aesthetically pleasing and the build quality superior for long-term use.
#4
Runner-Up
Bat House - Handcrafted Bat Box for Outside from Cedar Wood - Weatherproof Bat Houses for Outdoors - Bat Boxes Designed to Attract Bats - Easy for Bats to Land and Roost (Natural, One Chamber)
Bat House - Handcrafted Bat Box from Cedar Wood impressed our team with its handcrafted details and weatherproofing. It's a solid choice for those who want a ready-to-mount box without assembly, though slightly smaller than our top picks.
#5
Best Budget
INCLY Small Bat House Kit for Outdoors 14.6"x6.7"x2.2" Shelter Box Roosting Single Chamber Natural Cedar Wood, Pre-Finished Easy to Install
The INCLY Small Bat House Kit is our budget pick for small spaces. It's compact and affordable, suitable for single bats or small colonies. We recommend it as a starter house, though its smaller size limits capacity.
Section 03
Key Buying Factors
01
Material Quality
Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and provides better thermal insulation than pine or plywood. Our top picks use untreated, kiln-dried cedar.
02
Chamber Size & Number
Bats need at least 20 inches of height and 2-3 chambers for proper roosting. Single-chamber boxes are less effective.
03
Mounting System
Look for pre-attached cleats or brackets for easy mounting on poles or buildings. Avoid boxes that require drilling into the house wall.
04
Landing Area
A rough-textured interior surface and extended landing pad help bats grip and enter. Smooth surfaces can deter roosting.
05
Ventilation & Temperature
Proper airflow prevents overheating. Our picks include vents or side baffles. Dark colors absorb heat; light colors reflect-choose based on climate.
06
Assembly Difficulty
Pre-assembled boxes save time but may be bulkier. Kits require tools but offer customization. We prefer easy-to-mount models for most users.
Section 05
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Annual Inspection
Check for cracks, warping, or insect nests before roosting season. Re-caulk seams if needed. Do not use chemical treatments.
Cleaning
Remove old nests and debris after bats depart for winter. Wear gloves and mask. Do not use bleach or strong cleaners.
Mounting Height & Direction
Mount 12-20 feet high on a pole or building, facing south or southeast for warmth. Avoid direct wind exposure.
Pro tip
Install your bat house before the bats return from hibernation in early spring. In northern climates, face the box south to maximize sun exposure. Avoid placing near bird feeders to reduce competition.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for bats to find a new house?
It can take weeks to months. Use a bat attractant like guano or play bat calls to speed up the process.
Will a bat house increase bat activity in my yard?
Yes, but only if bats are present in your area. They can help reduce mosquito populations.
Can I install a bat house on a tree?
Trees are not recommended due to predators, shade, and moisture. Mount on a pole or building instead.
What is the best color for a bat house?
Light colors (tan, light gray) reflect heat in hot climates; dark colors (brown, black) absorb heat in cooler areas.
Do bat houses require maintenance?
Yes. Inspect annually for damage and clean out old nests after bats leave for winter.
📚 Sources & References
This content is informational and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for guidance specific to your pet.