Summertime is a great time of year. The weather is warm, the sun is shining, and there’s nothing quite like spending time outdoors with friends and family. However, mosquitoes can put a damper on things pretty quickly. These pesky insects can transmit diseases like the Zika virus, malaria, and dengue fever, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from them. In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways to keep mosquitoes off of your property!

Avoid Standing Water

One of the best ways to prevent mosquitoes from breeding is to avoid standing water. Mosquitoes need water to breed, so getting rid of any sources of standing water will help reduce the population of these insects. Some common sources of standing water that can be eliminated include things like unused swimming pools, buckets, tires, puddles, birdbaths, and pet bowls.

A Mosquito Net

If you’re going to be spending time outdoors, a mosquito net can be a great way to protect yourself from these insects. Mosquito nets are available in a variety of sizes and can be used for camping, hiking, or even just sitting in your backyard.

Use Repellent

Another great way to protect yourself from mosquitoes is by using repellent. Repellents containing DEET are the most effective at preventing bites, but there are also some natural options available that can be just as effective. Be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions for use.

Yard Spray

The outdoor area itself can be treated as well. Yard sprays are available at most hardware stores and can be applied to lawns, trees, and shrubs. There is a chemical option and a natural option, so be sure to choose the one that is best for your needs.

Clothing

Insecticide-treated clothing can also provide some protection from mosquitoes. Clothing containing permethrin can be sprayed on or purchased pre-treated. Be sure to follow the instructions for use carefully.

Install Mosquito Traps

Mosquito traps are another great way to reduce the population of mosquitoes on your property. These devices work by emitting carbon dioxide or other attractants that mimic human breath or sweat. Once the mosquitoes are drawn to the trap, they are unable to escape and eventually die.

There are a variety of different mosquito traps available on the market, so be sure to do your research before purchasing one.

Citronella Candles

Citronella candles are a popular way to repel mosquitoes. These candles release a scent that is unpleasant to mosquitoes but not to humans. While citronella candles are not 100% effective at preventing bites, they can be a great addition to your mosquito prevention arsenal.

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil is a natural mosquito repellent. Simply adding a few drops of lemon oil to your skin or clothing can help keep mosquitoes away. Mosquitos don’t like lemon oil because it is strong and has a citrusy smell.

Peppermint Oil

Like lemon oil, peppermint oil is a natural mosquito repellent. It has a strong scent that mosquitoes don’t like, so adding it to your skin or clothing can help keep these pests away.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil has a similar effect on mosquitos. The strong scent is unpleasant to them. Direct application to you and your clothes, or burning a candle with that scent will keep them from bothering you. Diffusers may work as well.

Eucalyptus Oil

Another essential oil to add to the pile. Eucalyptus oil is a natural mosquito repellent that smells great and can be used on your skin or in a diffuser.

Catnip Oil and Cinnamon

Applied in the same ways, and giving off a scent that mosquitos find repelling, cinnamon and catnip oil can keep your outdoor space pests-free.

Regular Yard Treatments

If you want to take a more proactive approach to keep the mosquitoes away, you can have your yard treated regularly. There are a variety of different treatments available, both chemical and natural. Be sure to talk to your local lawn care professional about the best treatment for your needs.

You can have them visit your home or business to apply a barrier treatment that can keep mosquitos from breeding and multiplying. They’ll treat the property every 28 days or so and it’ll keep the mosquitos away for weeks at a time.

Summon The Dragonflies

If mosquitos are a singular grievance, and you don’t mind other creatures around, you may want to lay out some dragonfly-attracting plants. These little guys eat mosquito larvae and can be a great asset to your pest control strategy.

There are a few different plants that dragonflies flock to like Lantana, Verbena, and Asclepias. If you want to invite these guys in, plant some of these flowers around your property and enjoy the company of mosquito-free living.

There you have it! Just a few different ways to keep mosquitos from bothering you. Whether you choose to use one or all of these methods, be sure to take action this summer and enjoy the outdoors bite-free!