How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

 

The image shows a woman in a straw hat applying insect repellent to her arm outdoors in a lush, green setting.
Credit: marthastewart.com


Natural Deterrents and Yard Maintenance

  • Citronella: Light citronella candles or incorporate citronella plants into your garden. Citronella helps deter mosquitoes by masking the carbon dioxide you emit, which is what attracts them.

  • Insecticides: For more severe infestations, consider spraying your yard with an EPA-approved mosquito insecticide. The best times for application are at dawn or dusk when mosquitoes are most active. You might also consider hiring a professional exterminator.

  • Dehumidifiers: Place a dehumidifier near windows or doors, especially in humid areas. Mosquitoes thrive in high humidity, so reducing moisture can make your environment less appealing to them.

  • Eliminate Standing Water: This is crucial, as mosquitoes cannot breed without stagnant water. Twice a week, check and empty any containers that hold water, such as bird baths, old tires, or clogged gutters.

  • Outdoor Fans: Adding fans to your outdoor spaces can help. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and dislike air movement, making it difficult for them to land on you.

  • Bat Boxes: Attracting bats can be a natural way to control mosquito populations. Bats are natural predators and can consume thousands of mosquitoes.


Personal Protection

  • EPA-Approved Repellents: Always use EPA-approved repellents. Read the label carefully for proper dosage and application instructions, especially when using them around children and pets.

  • Limit Outdoor Time: Reduce your exposure to mosquitoes by limiting time outdoors during dusk and dawn, as these are peak mosquito hours.


For more detailed information, you can refer to the original source: Martha Stewart.

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