Mosquitoes are one of the most inconvenient insects to be surrounded by. Especially if you’ve ever been camping, or stayed in a hot and humid climate during the peak of their breeding period. In many parts of the world, mosquitoes are much more than just an annoyance. Sometimes mosquitoes can even carry diseases like West Nile virus.
Here’s a look at some of the best ways to keep mosquitoes away from you and your property.
What is the Most Effective Way to Keep Mosquitoes Away?
A Reliable Mosquito Net
A reliable mosquito net can sometimes be the only completely reliable way to repel mosquitoes. This is the top method that people rely on when staying in a climate with a high rate of mosquitoes. Especially knowing that they can carry diseases that potentially cause deadly health conditions.
Inspect the mosquito net for any tangles or holes. Always ensure that you cover the sleeping surface completely without leaving any open gaps. Effective use is important, and mosquito nets work best when combined with traditional mosquito repellents.
Anti-Mosquito Aerosol Sprays
Aerosol sprays have been formulated to spray in a confined space (such as a room) to repel mosquitoes from the area. These aerosol sprays are effective against the common mosquito. However, it won’t protect you from the potential for malaria in a climate known for infections.
Room sprays have the advantage of being effective, but also have the disadvantage of wearing off within a few hours. Regular spraying is necessary for the product to be effective.
Body Sprays and Sticks Keep Mosquitoes Away
Body sprays and sticks are meant to be applied directly to the body. Designers created these sprays and sticks to reduce mosquitoes’ attraction to humans. These usually contain ingredients that these insects find unpleasant.
Sprays and sticks work at home, but using a mosquito net is also important for extra protection.
Anti-Bug Candles
Some natural candles on the market claim to be a natural way to repel mosquitoes and other bugs, and some of them work well. Unfortunately, some anti-bug candles contain harmful ingredients that could cause damage to everything else in the environment. This includes beetles, spiders, and other bugs that you would want in your environment at home.
Mosquito Coils
Mosquito coils can be a reliable solution to repel mosquitoes. However, people consider them harsher and potentially more dangerous for the environment than traditional aerosol and body sprays.
Due to harmful ingredients, mosquito coils could be harmful to pets. Coils may not be the most effective way to keep mosquitoes away from any environment. They’re also not practical for camping. Traditional bug sprays are more effective in getting rid of mosquitoes.
Electronic Anti-Insect Solutions
Electronic bug-repellent claim products can be plugged into the wall to repel insects with electronic impulses. They state it is effective for cockroaches and mosquitoes.
There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence surrounding electronic anti-insect solutions. However, there is little evidence to suggest that this method is as effective as traditional insect-repellent aerosols or body sprays.
Stick to scientifically proven methods to repel mosquitoes. It could be more effective to keep them away from you and your environment.
Kill Mosquitos With Traps
To prevent mosquito bites, you can also use mosquito traps. These devices attract and trap mosquitoes, which can help reduce their population in your surroundings. There are various types of mosquito traps available, such as propane-powered and electric traps. Using these traps can be an effective way to minimize mosquito activity around your property.
Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Another natural way to repel mosquitoes is by planting mosquito-repelling plants in your outdoor areas.
Plants that are known to have mosquito-repelling properties include:
- Citronella
- Lavender
- Lemon balm
- Marigolds
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
You can also light citronella candles to create a barrier between yourself and the mosquitoes.
Eliminate Standing Water
One of the most effective ways to prevent mosquitoes from breeding is to get rid of standing water around your property. Mosquitos lay eggs in standing water. Getting rid of places where mosquito eggs are laid and mosquito larvae thrive can reduce the number of these pests in your area.
You can start by removing any objects that collect water, such as tires, cans, and buckets. You can also regularly check and empty water dishes for your pets, as well as bird baths and other outdoor containers.
Make your own Mosquito Repellent
If you’d like to make your own repellent, here are some recipes to try. Start with a 1:10 ratio of lemon eucalyptus essential oil to your preferred carrier oil. Alternatively, mix ¼ teaspoon (or 24 drops) of cinnamon oil with ½ cup of water.
Another option is to combine 1 tablespoon of mineral oil, 1 teaspoon of lime juice, and 2 cups of water. Soak 5-6 cloves of garlic in the mixture overnight, then strain the garlic and apply the liquid anywhere you need protection. Finally, cut a lemon in half and stick 5-6 cloves of garlic around the pulp. Place the lemon halves in areas where you want to repel mosquitoes.
The Center For Disease Control and Prevention on Mosquitoes
The CDC recommends using EPA-registered insect repellents. They also state that you should cover up with long sleeves and long pants when outside. Avoid outdoor activities when mosquitos are most active. These precautions can help to prevent mosquito-borne diseases and bites.
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