DEET is the best mosquito repellent; use it. DEET is the most widely studied mosquito repellent, and with good reason, it is the most popular mosquito control product. DEET has outperformed other mosquito repellents in tests conducted by the CDC and EPA, both in the lab and in the field. Picaradin—a chemical found in some Sawyer products and Avon's Skin so Soft, is a good second option. While it's not as effective or long lasting as DEET, it doesn't stink and is easier on clothing (DEET will stain synthetic fabrics).
Drain or treat standing water. Standing water is the face palm of mosquito control. Even small amounts of standing water (such as the pool inside of an old tire) can begin producing continuous swarms in as little as a week. If you have clogged storm drains or gutters, wheel barrows, kiddie pools, puddles, low lying spots, pet dishes, open graves, or bear traps, drain them, fill them in, or treat these areas with Bti (see right). Fewer mosquitoes will be attracted to your property, and fewer will hatch from it.
Keep your lawn, trees, and shrubs trimmed and neat. Routine yard maintenance is the best kind of natural mosquito control. Mosquitoes love tall grasses and heavy cover for the shade, moisture, and protection they provide. Ever wait too long to mow your lawn? Did you notice the swarms of insects scattering in your wake? The more sun and air flow you let in, the less you'll need to worry about backyard mosquito control.
Install bug lights around doors, windows, decks, and other portals. Traditional lighting attracts mosquitoes. Waiting for a chance to slip in the door, they swarm to your property at night. In the morning, all the blood-sucking revelers will roost in your yard. Don't let it happen. Install yellow "bug lights," LED lighting, or sodium vapor lamps. These bulbs emit a type of light mosquitoes and other biting insects cannot see. It's another cheap, simple layer of mosquito control.
Enjoy your yard with a screened canopy or well-placed fan. Screened canopies or party tents are cheaper than mosquito yard spray or fog services, and they’re far more effective. In small outdoor spaces (a patio or porch) a good strong fan will keep you cool and mosquito bite free since mosquitoes cannot fly in wind exceeding two miles-per-hour.
Mosquitoes in the home? Seal them out. Indoor mosquito control is about repairing barriers. Repair screens with silicone caulk or screen patches. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to secure doors. Next, make sure your home's outdoor vents are screened and the incoming utilities don't offer a way in (fill gaps with outdoor caulk). If your home is in a poor condition and repairs will take some time, know that mosquito netting can be installed over beds, cribs, kennels, and anywhere sanity is required.
This information was taken from an article written by Adam Bjerk that was originally published on www.simplepestcontrol.com. |
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