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Mosquitoes during the summer can be the bain of our existence. Mosquitoes can make sitting outside and enjoying an outdoor space an absolute nightmare. They constantly buzz near you, finding ways to cling to you and disrupt your peace.
And with warmer temperatures and rain, mosquitoes are prone to be in abundance.
So, if you are sick and tired of repeatedly trying to swat away mosquitoes when outside or exhausted by the persistent itching from the mosquito bites, then I’ve got a few solutions for you.
Here are 14 simple and, most importantly, effective ways to repel mosquitoes.
It’s time to take back the outdoor spaces that are rightfully ours for a mosquito-free summer.
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What are mosquitoes?
About 200 different species of mosquitoes in the United States live in specific habitats, exhibit unique behaviors, and bite different types of animals. [1]
When mosquitoes bite people, the most common reactions to the bite are itching and swelling. Adult mosquitoes typically live for about 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the species, humidity, temperature, and other factors. [2]
Mosquitoes flourish in warm and humid conditions, laying their eggs in dormant water. They are most active during dawn and dusk when the weather is cooler, and the sunlight isn’t too strong. They are attracted to people by the carbon dioxide we exhale and the body heat we release.
Some mosquitoes have been known to be harmful to humans and animals, spreading unique germs, viruses, and parasites that can eventually make you sick. Malaria, Zika, and dengue fever are common mosquito-related diseases known worldwide.
While this might be prevalent in some parts of the world, most mosquitoes do not cause harm. Rather than harming your health, mosquitoes are mostly a nuisance, leaving behind itchy welts that persistently nag at you.
Best Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes
1. Use Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are most notably known for their ability to repel mosquitoes. Citronella has long been regarded as one of the best mosquito repellents. Citronella oil is often repurposed as a bug repellent – from oils to candles and sprays.
It has a very distinct lemon-like smell that leaves behind a wonderful fragrance. This fragrance and scent create a shield that keeps the mosquitoes at bay when burned.
2. Burn Coffee Grounds
Used coffee grounds work well as a natural mosquito repellent when burned. The smoke produced by burning coffee grounds can help keep mosquitoes away.
Mosquitoes are repulsed by coffee and do not want to come near it. Just ensure you burn the coffee grounds in a fire-safe container like a fire pit to create mosquito repellent and deter them.
3. Mosquito-repelling plants
There are a few plants that have a natural repellent. These plants either have an overwhelming fragrance that mosquitoes despise or contain chemicals that are irritating to mosquitoes. Plants like marigolds, peppermint, Eucalyptus, and Bee balm can help keep mosquitoes away.
These plants will create a barrier that can help to reduce mosquito activity in your space. Plant them near your porch, patio, or deck for the best results.
4. Use an Outdoor Fan
Create a cool breeze that makes it hard for mosquitoes and other small flying pests to fly around by using an outdoor fan. Since mosquitoes are frail flyers, the fan will make it difficult for mosquitoes to fly by against a steady breeze. The fan also helps to distribute the carbon dioxide we emit when we breathe, making it hard for mosquitoes to find you.
5. Mosquito Screens or Net
You can cover your outdoor area with a mosquito screen or net, including the patio, porch, or gazebo. This is a physical barrier preventing mosquitoes from entering your space.
6. Mosquito Dunks
Mosquito dunks can prevent mosquitoes from plaguing your outdoor space. All you have to do is place mosquito dunks in any standing water where the mosquitoes are likely to breed – including empty plant pots, birdbaths, and gutters. The dunk will get rid of the larvae of the mosquitoes -preventing them from breeding and multiplying.
The dunk is nontoxic and typically safe for humans, fish, and wildlife, so you can also place it in a small pond. Each Dunk will treat up to 100 square feet of surface water despite the water depth.
Buy at Walmart Buy on Amazon7. Mosquito Repelling Coils
These coils are great at repelling mosquitoes. The mosquito-repelling coils will burn for hours, repelling those annoying pests.
8. Tiki Torch
Consider a standup tiki torch or a tabletop tiki torch to help repel mosquitoes. Try to keep this one away from the kids.
9. Cover Up Outside
Although the idea of sleeved tops and pants during the summertime may not sound appealing, the strategic choice of wearing long sleeves can effectively ward off mosquito bites.
10. Fogger
Outdoor Insect Fogger repels insects outside your home for up to 6 hours. It works effectively against flies, mosquitoes, non-biting gnats, small flying moths, wasps, and multi-colored Asian lady beetles. It is strong enough for outdoor spaces covering up to 900 sq. ft.
11. Remove Standing Water
Mosquitoes love standing water. It is necessary for them to breed and multiply. It’s important that you get rid of these water sources. Water sources can include clogged gutters, bird baths, unused containers, and bases of flowerpots.
Empty or drain these sources regularly to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs. You can significantly reduce mosquito populations by eliminating standing water around your home.
12. Change Your Lighting
Certain lights attract bugs more often. Opt for outdoor lights specially designed to repel bugs by changing the light fixture or light bulbs.
13. Mow the Lawn and Prune the Hedges
Strategic landscaping can be crucial in reducing mosquito populations around your property. Start by trimming overgrown vegetation and mowing your lawn regularly. Mosquitoes seek shelter in tall grass and dense foliage during the day since they do not like the heat and sun.
So keeping your front yard and backyard well-maintained with fewer shaded areas can make it less appealing for them to congregate in your yard.
14. Mosquito Sprays
When combating mosquitoes, a good mosquito spray is a must. Using a spray to cover your exposed arms and legs will help to keep mosquitoes at bay.
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With all these methods and preventive measures, you can reclaim your outdoor haven and enjoy your summer activities mosquito-free.
Sources
- [1] General Infomation About Mosquitoes: The United States Environmental Protection Agency
- [2] What is a Mosquito: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
