Mosquitoes can be a nuisance when they invade your home. Their bites can leave itchy, irritating welts on your skin. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to deter mosquitoes and prevent them from entering your house.
Remove Standing Water
Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water sources. Drain any stagnant water around your property to eliminate breeding grounds. This includes flower pots, buckets, pool covers, and bird baths. Changing the water at least once a week keeps mosquito larvae at bay.
Use Fans
Mosquitoes struggle to fly against winds over 1 mph. Place fans near opened doors and windows to keep the insects out of your house. Box fans and oscillating outdoor fans work well for this.
Install Screens
Well-fitting screens on windows and doors prevent mosquitoes from sneaking inside. Inspect screens periodically and repair any holes or gaps that allow entry points for the pests.
Use Essential Oils
Certain essential oils like lavender, peppermint, tea tree oil and citronella naturally repel mosquitoes. Apply these oils on pulse points or diffuse them in your home. Just be sure to keep them away from pets.
Grow Mosquito Repelling Plants
Plants like catnip, marigolds, basil and garlic planted around your home release natural scents that deter mosquitoes. Mint and rosemary also help mask attractive human scents.
Use Yellow Bug Lights
Outdoor yellow bulb lights are less attractive to mosquitoes than standard white bulbs. Replace porch and outdoor lighting with yellow bulbs.
Eliminate Dense Shrubbery
Trim back overgrown trees, shrubs and tall grasses where adult mosquitoes hide. Thinning dense vegetation reduces suitable mosquito habitats.
Apply Insect Repellent
DEET, picaridin, IR3535 and oil of lemon eucalyptus are proven mosquito repellents. Apply topical repellents when outdoors and reapply as directed.
Install Bug Zappers
Electronic insect killers and bug zapper traps use ultraviolet light and electrocution to eliminate mosquitoes. Position them near prime mosquito entryways.
Seal Entry Points
Caulk cracks around windows, doors, pipe openings and any gaps in your home’s exterior. This seals potential entryways for mosquitoes to get inside.
Implementing these tips will significantly reduce pesky mosquitoes in your living space. With some diligence, you can enjoy summer without endless mosquito bites.
