Avoid Mosquito Bites This Summer With These 8 Hacks
Education
Summer is one of the best times of the year to enjoy the outdoors but one thing we all can’t stand is those pesky mosquitoes. What most people overlook is that many popular mosquito repellents are toxic to our health. Opting for DEET-Free, Eco friendly and hypoallergenic mosquito repellents can keep everyone in the family comfortable this Summer.
Use Mosquito Repellent
The first and most obvious step is to use mosquito repellent. These repellents come in various forms, including sprays, lotions, and even wearable wristbands. Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as they are proven to be effective against mosquitoes.1 Apply the repellent to your exposed skin before heading outside, and reapply as needed to stay protected throughout the day.
Dress Wisely
Mosquitoes are drawn to dark colors, so opt for light-colored clothing when spending time outdoors. Loose-fitting clothes can also help as they make it harder for mosquitoes to reach your skin through the fabric. Long sleeves and pants can provide extra protection, especially during peak mosquito hours at dawn and dusk.
Remove Standing Water
Mosquitoes need water to lay their eggs, and even a small puddle can become a breeding ground. Regularly inspect your yard and empty any containers or areas that collect water, such as buckets, flowerpots, or clogged gutters. Keeping your surroundings dry will discourage mosquitoes from multiplying near your home.
Screen Your Home
Make sure your home is protected by installing window and door screens to prevent mosquitoes from sneaking inside. Check for any holes or tears in existing screens and repair them promptly. This not only keeps the mosquitoes out but also allows you to enjoy a cool breeze without worrying about their unwelcome presence.
Use Fans Outdoors
Did you know that mosquitoes are weak fliers? Setting up fans in your outdoor living spaces can help create a gentle breeze that keeps mosquitoes away. Not only does this disrupt their flight patterns, but it also makes it harder for them to land and bite. Enjoy your time on the patio without the nuisance of buzzing mosquitoes!
Choose Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Nature offers some great solutions to keep mosquitoes at a distance. Consider planting mosquito-repelling plants in your garden or patio, such as citronella, lavender, basil, and rosemary. Not only do these plants add beauty to your outdoor space, but their natural scents also act as a deterrent to mosquitoes.2 If you prefer natural alternatives, essential oils can be effective mosquito repellents. Dilute oils like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, or lavender with a carrier oil and apply them to your skin. These oils emit scents that mosquitoes dislike, helping to keep them away naturally.
Maintain Your Yard
Regularly trim your grass and bushes to remove potential hiding spots for mosquitoes. Keeping your yard well-maintained and tidy reduces their breeding grounds and makes your outdoor space less inviting to these buzzing bugs. Invite nature’s mosquito control squad to your garden by attracting bats, birds, and dragonflies. These natural predators feast on mosquitoes, helping to keep their population in check. You can create habitats for them by installing birdhouses, bat boxes, and a small pond for dragonflies.
Can I Use Citronella Candles to Repel Mosquitoes?
Yes, you can use citronella candles to help repel mosquitoes. Citronella is a natural mosquito repellent that is derived from the essential oil of lemongrass (Cymbopogon species).3 When the candle is burned, it releases the scent of citronella into the air, which mosquitoes find unpleasant, and it can help keep them at bay. While citronella candles can be effective in creating a mosquito-free zone in a small outdoor area, their effectiveness is limited to the immediate vicinity of the candle. They may not offer complete protection in highly mosquito-infested areas or in larger outdoor spaces.
Why Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Humans?
Mosquitoes are attracted to humans for several reasons, and their keen sense of smell plays a crucial role in seeking out their targets. Female mosquitoes, in particular, are the ones that seek out human hosts, as they require the nutrients found in blood to develop their eggs. Some of the following are:
- Carbon Dioxide: Mosquitoes are highly sensitive to carbon dioxide (CO2), which is one of the primary ways they detect the presence of potential hosts. When we exhale, we release carbon dioxide into the air, and mosquitoes can sense it from a considerable distance, guiding them toward potential blood sources.
- Body Heat: Mosquitoes can detect the heat emitted by warm-blooded animals, including humans. Our bodies are warmer than the surrounding environment, making us an attractive target for mosquitoes seeking a blood meal.
- Body Odor: Mosquitoes are drawn to the unique scent of each individual, which is determined by factors like genetics, diet, and activities. Certain compounds present in sweat and body odor, such as lactic acid, ammonia, and uric acid, can attract mosquitoes.
- Skin Chemicals: Mosquitoes are sensitive to various chemicals found on the skin, such as fatty acids and certain steroids. These substances may vary between individuals and can influence a mosquito’s preference for one person over another.
Keep Mosquitoes Away With Hacks
With these ten easy and practical tips, you can take charge of your battle against mosquitoes and enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about bites and itchiness. Remember to use mosquito repellents, dress wisely, remove standing water, and screen your home. Embrace natural solutions like mosquito-repelling plants, essential oils, and inviting natural predators to your yard. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a mosquito-free outdoor experience. Stay safe, stay protected, and happy mosquito-free adventures! To see ways to stay keep mosquito bite free this summer, start an online search now.
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