Summer is a great time for family BBQs, hanging out at the pool, and taking evening strolls in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, it is also the season when mosquitoes are out to make you their next meal. Mosquito bites are irritating and can also be dangerous due to mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, West Nile virus, and Dengue fever. 

Here are 7 ways to keep mosquitoes at bay this summer

1. Use insect repellent

Insect repellents are an effective way to keep the little bloodsuckers away. For the best protection, follow the instructions on the label and reapply as needed. Choose a repellent with active ingredients like:

⦁    DEET: Choose a product with at least 20% DEET. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends DEET as an effective ingredient in insect repellents to protect against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. 
⦁    Picaridin: Also recommended by the CDC, picaridin is a synthetic repellent against mosquitoes, biting flies, and ticks.
⦁    Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE): OLE is a good choice if you prefer a natural option, as it is derived from lemon eucalyptus trees. It is proven effective against mosquitoes.
⦁    IR3535: Used in Europe for over 20 years, and now available in the U.S., IR3535 is a synthetic repellent approved for use on children. It protects against mosquitoes, deer ticks, body lice, and biting flies.

2. Wear protective clothing

Sometimes the right outfit can save the day. Certain types of clothing will protect you, while others will invite them over. Keep the following in mind when you want to hide from mosquitoes.

⦁    Cover up: Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and pants. Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing.
⦁    Keep it light: Choose light-colored clothes. Mosquitoes are drawn to dark or contrasting colors.
⦁    Extra protection: You can also ⦁    treat your clothing with permethrin repellents to keep the mosquitoes off.

3. Remove standing water

Mosquitoes only need a bottle cap full of water to breed, so removing any sources of stagnant water is important. Regularly change the water in outdoor pet bowls and bird baths and check around your yard for breeding grounds, such as:

⦁    Clogged gutters
⦁    Holes in trees
⦁    Wood or debris piles

4. Use larvicides

Larvicides are effective in killing mosquito larvae and stopping them from becoming adults. They typically contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a bacteria that will kill larvae but has no adverse effects on humans or animals. Follow instructions on the product to ensure maximum effectiveness and use in areas of standing water like:

⦁    Rain barrels
⦁    Ponds
⦁    Bird baths
⦁    Uncirculated pools

5. Use mosquito netting

Keep mosquitoes away from outdoor spaces and sleeping areas with mosquito nets. Make sure the netting is secure, with no holes, and covers the entire space. This method is handy for:

⦁    Camping
⦁    Patios
⦁    Porches
⦁    Bedrooms

6. Install screens

Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by using screens on your windows and doors. Screens block insects and debris while allowing fresh air to circulate. To create an effective physical barrier against pesky mosquitoes and other bugs:

⦁    Install new screens or replace missing ones.
⦁    Repair holes or tears in existing screens.
⦁    Ensure the screens fit tightly in the frames.

7. Be less attractive

If you’re someone who gets attacked by mosquitoes every season, you’re not alone. Scientists have discovered what attracts mosquitoes, so you can take some simple steps to make yourself look less like a snack. Here are a few tips to help avoid being a mosquito magnet:

⦁    Floral scents: Minimize using sweet-smelling or floral perfumes and body sprays.
⦁    Peak hours: Stay indoors during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active. 
⦁    Air circulation: Use fans to create a breeze. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and will be deterred by the air current.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your summer without the annoyance and danger of mosquito bites. Stay safe and mosquito-free!

If your mosquitoes have gone from pesky pests to a major problem, consult one of our mosquito control experts today. We will eliminate the infestation and provide long-term control options. Call us at 855-WILDLIFE or visit Wildlife X Team for more information.

 

 
Raven Wisdom is a screenwriter from West Texas and a proud mom of two in an Autism family. Self-described as "half-feral but mostly harmless", Raven loves houseplants, a good laugh, and furry friends.