Summers can bring hordes of flying pests, of which, mosquitoes can be the biggest nuisance. Apart from the usual buzzing and biting, they can carry serious diseases. While their entire life cycle can be counted in days, they lay up to 500 eggs in that short period. This is why people look for ways to keep their homes pest-free. After all, sunny days should be enjoyed outdoors without long sleeves and fear of itchy bites.

What attracts mosquitoes?

These insects are drawn to dark and humid places and begin appearing during summer. Common breeding grounds include containers with standing or stagnant water, overgrown grass, under the leaves, inside hollow trees, and overwatered lawns. Mosquitoes are most active during dusk or dawn when there is fading light.

Individual factors such as sweat and exhaled carbon dioxide can also attract these insects.

Mosquitoes can carry diseases such as malaria and dengue, and even infections like the West Nile Virus. So, it is important to keep your home and yard free from these pests. Here are a few things you can try to achieve mosquito control:

Remove the sources of still and standing water
Mosquitoes tend to lay eggs in stagnant water and some common sources are birdbaths, toddler pools, tree stumps, bottle containers, and rusted cans. Water should be drained regularly and these places must be cleaned to avoid creating a perfect breeding ground for these disease-carrying insects. Lawns that are overwatered and lack an efficient drainage system are vulnerable to pest attacks as well. Keep your lawn furniture clean and if using tarps to cover firewood piles, shake them off once a week and ensure they are taut so that water does not accumulate in the folds. Get rid of all the unnecessary items or junk in the yard and clean out your attic, shed, and garage regularly.

Use essential oils
Try diluting aromatic oils like peppermint, lemongrass, and lavender with water and using spray bottles containing the solution to effectively eliminate mosquitoes from your yard. The scent can keep pests away.

Plant mosquito-repelling herbs

Adding plants like basil, garlic, lavender, peppermint, and rosemary to your garden or yard helps you get rid of mosquitoes. Their strong scent can serve the dual purpose of masking your own and being repulsive to the pests, making them the perfect natural repellents. Planting these herbs can also spruce up your garden. You may also choose native plants such as bee balm and American beautyberry.

Clear gutters and trash cans
Gutters and ditches filled with sticks and leaves can trap water. So, such areas should be cleaned regularly. Ensure that the trash cans in your yard are not left open or filled for a long time. In addition, please check if your compost pile is attracting insects because of all the carbon dioxide it releases. Do not forget to turn your compost pile regularly.

Install fans
Using oscillating fans is another effective solution for mosquito control. These insects do not like the wind. The airflow from fans confuses them, making them unable to fly straight. Consider installing permanent fans on your porch.

Light citronella candles
These candles containing citronella oil can repel insects with their scent when lit. Try to place citronella candles around your yard or arrange them on tables if you are dining outside.

Trim bushes and overgrown lawns
These insects do not like the sun and tend to look for shade. So, always maintain a manicured lawn. Regularly trim tall shrubs and bushes, especially near the seating areas, to make these areas less hospitable for flies.

Use broadcast treatment
You can choose to DIY or hire a professional to get rid of mosquitoes. Here, the repellent is sprayed all over the yard, and it helps keep the insects away for months before any sort of reapplication is required. Organic repellents and pet-friendly are great non-toxic alternatives as they are relatively safe for you and your pets if breathed in. Using insecticides would be the last resort in severe cases. The cost of broadcast treatment to eliminate mosquitoes from the yard will usually depend on the size of the area.

How to keep your home pest-free?
You can apply natural remedies and repellents to your skin to keep these insects away. However, stronger measures may be required for thorough mosquito control. First, you should keep the doors and windows shut, especially in the evenings. You can also use an indoor fogger, which is a temporary solution and will have to be reapplied. Consider replacing or repairing any damaged screens in your home. You can also use insect zappers. Many homeowners use mosquito netting, especially in bedrooms.

Most breeds of mosquitoes have the same life cycle, and they all prefer similar habitats and so, the solutions listed should be effective against them all. It is crucial to keep your home and yard clean to get rid of mosquitoes as well as the risks they pose to your health. In severe cases of infestation, you must consult with a pest control expert and get professional help for a long-lasting solution.