Johann Hunt
Beyond being a nuisance, mosquitoes are a health concern. They are vectors for several diseases like malaria and West Nile virus. Keeping these annoying and risky pests away should be a priority. There are numerous ways to repel mosquitoes so you can enjoy your house, in and out, without the constant swatting and scratching. Here, we show you 15 strategies to protect yourself and those around you from mosquito bites.
Use Mosquito Repellent Sprays
Mosquito repellent sprays containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are highly effective in keeping mosquitoes away. DEET has been used for decades and is safe when used as directed. It disrupts the mosquito’s ability to locate humans by interfering with their olfactory receptors. Picaridin, a more recent alternative, offers a similar defense without the greasy feel and odor of DEET. Lemon eucalyptus oil, though natural, has proven to work.
Wear Protective Clothing
Mosquitoes can easily bite through thin fabric, so wearing tightly woven, loose-fitting garments can provide a barrier. Light-colored clothing is preferable because mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colors. Additionally, treating garments with permethrin, an insect repellent designed for fabric, can enhance defense. Cover as much as possible with long sleeves, pants, socks, and hats.
Install Screens
Ensuring your windows and doors have tight-fitting screens can prevent mosquitoes from entering your house. Regularly inspect the screens for holes or gaps and repair them promptly. Using a screen door with a self-closing mechanism further reduces the chance of mosquitoes sneaking in when the door opens
Use Mosquito Nets
Mosquito nets are handy in places where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent. Hang the nets over beds or sleeping areas and treat them with insecticide for better protection. Tuck the netting under mattresses or secure it to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
Eliminate Stagnant Water
Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, so take out these breeding sites. Regularly empty and scrub items like birdbaths, buckets, plant saucers, and pet water dishes. Add a fountain or water agitator for your ponds or water features to keep the water moving. Use larvicides to kill mosquito larvae where water cannot be eliminated.
Use Fans
Mosquitoes are weak fliers and struggle against wind. Using fans on your porch, patio, or indoor areas can create a breeze that makes it harder for mosquitoes to find and land on you. Ceiling, oscillating, or box fans can all be productive in keeping mosquitoes at bay.
Burn Citronella Candles
Citronella oil, derived from lemongrass, has a strong scent that masks the attractants mosquitoes seek. Burning citronella candles or torches around exterior seating spots can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in the immediate vicinity.
Use Essential Oils
Essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, peppermint, and lemongrass have mosquito-repellent properties. They can be applied to the skin when combined with a carrier oil. You may also use essential oil diffusers or make homemade sprays to use around your space. Be careful with these oils; some can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Install Yellow Bug Lights
Mosquitoes are less attracted to yellow bug lights than to traditional white ones. Replacing exterior lighting with these special bulbs can help reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home. The yellow bug option is available in various forms, including incandescent, LED, and compact fluorescent bulbs, and can serve in porch and garden lights and other outdoor fixtures.
Use Mosquito Traps
These traps use several methods to attract and capture mosquitoes, such as emitting carbon dioxide, heat, or light. Once lured in, mosquitoes are trapped and killed. Place them in spots where mosquitoes are prevalent, such as near-standing water or outside seating places. Regularly maintaining and cleaning the traps ensures their effectiveness.
Maintain Clean Gutters
Clogged gutters can trap water and create breeding grounds for mosquitoes. To prevent this, ensure your gutters are sloped properly and clean. Also, put gutter guards in place to stop the accumulation of leaves and dirt that can lead to stagnant water.
Keep Air Conditioning On
Because mosquitoes thrive in warm and humid environments, keep your home cool and dry with air conditioning to make it less inviting to mosquitoes. Additionally, air conditioning systems can help filter out mosquitoes and other insects from the air, providing an added layer of defense.
Treat Exterior Spaces with Insecticides
For severe infestations, treating outdoor zones with insecticides can be effective. Use products specifically designed to target mosquito larvae and adults. Follow the instructions for using them for safe and productive application. It is best to hire a professional pest control service for large areas.
Use a Mosquito Misting System
Misting systems automatically spray insecticide at regular intervals from installed nozzles. You can set them up around your yard to provide continuous protection against mosquitoes. They’re helpful for large outside spaces.
Use Mosquito Coils
When lit, mosquito coils release insecticidal smoke that repels mosquitoes. They are handy for outdoor spaces and can be placed on patios, balconies, or campsites. The area where you use the coils should be well-ventilated to avoid inhaling too much smoke.
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