Keeping mosquitoes away is important for feeling good and staying healthy, and there are many simple ways to avoid bites, from using natural bug sprays to making small changes in your routine. Here are 18 ways you can enjoy being outside without worrying about pesky mosquitoes.
Use Mosquito Traps
Something as simple as mosquito traps helps catch and reduce the number of mosquitoes around you. You can choose from different kinds, like traps that release CO2 or sticky ones. Place them where mosquitoes are common, and remember to empty and clean them regularly for the best results.
Install Screens on Windows and Doors
Don’t skip installing screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home. Make sure they’re in good shape and have no holes. This easy step helps create a mosquito-free space so you can relax and feel safe without needing chemical repellents.
Use Fans
Believe it or not, mosquitoes aren’t great at flying and have a tough time against fan airflow. This means that placing fans in outdoor areas or using them inside can help keep these pests away. The breeze also spreads out carbon dioxide, which mosquitoes are drawn to, making it harder for them to find you.
Avoid Peak Mosquito Activity Times
We’re all aware that mosquitoes buzz around the most at dawn and dusk. To avoid bites, try to stay indoors during these times. If you have to be outside, wear long sleeves and pants, and use bug spray to protect yourself. Taking these steps can help keep those pesky mosquitoes away.
Plant Mosquito-Repellent Herbs
It’s fascinating how some herbs, such as basil, lavender, and citronella, can keep mosquitoes away. You can grow these in your garden or put potted ones on your patio. The natural oils from these plants help repel mosquitoes, making your outdoor space more enjoyable and comfortable for you and your guests.
Wear Long Sleeves and Pants
The Huffington Post writes, “Long sleeves and pants can feel stifling, but having itchy bites all over your arms, legs and face doesn’t feel great either.” There’s no denying that wearing long sleeves and pants helps keep mosquitoes away by creating a barrier. Making this simple change in your outfit can really cut down on bites.
Apply Insect Repellent
Always use a bug spray with DEET, picaridin, or lemon eucalyptus oil to keep mosquitoes away. These ingredients really work, so make sure to apply them to all your exposed skin and reapply as needed. Pick a product that’s right for your age and skin type to stay protected and comfortable.
Use Mosquito Nets
Don’t underestimate the power of mosquito nets, which are super important in places where there are lots of mosquitoes. They create a safe space while you sleep, while insecticide-treated nets give extra protection, helping you sleep peacefully without getting bitten. This is especially crucial in areas where mosquito-borne diseases are common.
Eliminate Standing Water
You may already be aware that mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. So, check your area for standing water in pots, gutters, or containers, and empty or treat these places to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs. Regular checks and upkeep can really help lower mosquito numbers around your home.
Wear Light-Colored Clothing
It sounds crazy, but wearing light-colored clothes can help keep mosquitoes away, as dark colors attract these pesky bugs, making you more likely to get bitten. So, stick to whites, pastels, and other light shades, especially during mosquito season, to make yourself less appealing to them and enjoy your time outdoors.
Apply Essential Oils
If you want a natural repellent, then certain essential oils, like eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint, can repel mosquitoes. Dilute these oils in a carrier oil and apply them to exposed skin. Alternatively, use them in diffusers around your home. They offer a natural and pleasant-smelling alternative to chemical repellents.
Keep Air Conditioning On
If you can afford to, air conditioning lowers the indoor temperature and humidity, making the environment less attractive to mosquitoes. Running your AC can help keep these pests outside. This method provides a comfortable and mosquito-free living space without relying solely on repellents.
Use Yellow Bug Lights
Something to consider for outside areas is that yellow bug lights are less attractive to mosquitoes than regular lights. If you want to reduce mosquito presence around your home, replace outdoor lighting with these bulbs. This simple switch can make a noticeable difference, particularly during evening hours when mosquitoes are most active.
Wear Permethrin-Treated Clothing
What you may not know is that permethrin-treated clothing repels and kills mosquitoes on contact. This type of clothing is particularly useful for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and care to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of the treatment.
Keep Grass and Shrubs Trimmed
Something to keep in mind is that mosquitoes seek shelter in tall grass and dense shrubbery. Regularly mowing your lawn and trimming bushes reduces their hiding spots, so maintaining a well-groomed yard can significantly decrease the mosquito population around your home. This makes outdoor activities more enjoyable.
Use Mosquito Coils and Candles
Mosquito coils and candles are affordable repellents that release substances that repel mosquitoes when burned. Place them in outdoor areas where you spend time and ensure they are used safely, away from flammable materials. These products can provide localized protection and enhance the ambiance of your space.
Take Vitamin B1
You could always try taking a supplement, as some studies suggest that taking vitamin B1 (thiamine) can make your scent less appealing to mosquitoes. While not universally effective, it might provide an additional layer of protection for some individuals. But make sure to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
Avoid Scented Products
Make a note that fragrances in lotions, perfumes, and hair products can attract mosquitoes, so opt for unscented or naturally scented products during mosquito season. Reducing the use of strong-smelling items can decrease your attractiveness to these pests, lowering the likelihood of bites.
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