5 Ways To Ward Off Mosquitoes This Summer

Summertime offers the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy the warm weather with family. However, with summer comes pesky mosquitoes. These bloodsucking insects can ruin a good time by leaving behind itchy red bumps. Here are five ways to ward off mosquitoes so that you can enjoy your summer without having to worry about these pests.

Use Mosquito Repellent

There are different mosquito repellents available on the market today. Some contain DEET, while others use natural ingredients like lemon eucalyptus oil. No matter which type of mosquito repellent you choose, apply it according to the instructions on the label. 

Wear Light-Colored, Loose-Fitting Clothing

Mosquitoes get attracted to dark colors and can bite through tight clothing. To avoid being a target for these pests, opt for light-colored clothing. Loose-fitting clothing will also help to keep you cool in the summer heat. This method won’t work if you’re wearing a bathing suit; otherwise, it’s a good way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Consider thin, long-sleeved shirts and pants if you’ll be outdoors for an extended period. 

Stay Indoors During Peak Mosquito Hours

Mosquitoes’ activity is mostly at dawn and dusk. If possible, stay indoors during these times to avoid being bitten. If you must go outside, wear appropriate clothing and mosquito repellent. If you find yourself needing to be outside regularly, consider hiring professionals to spray your yard to keep these pests at bay. Mosquito control is especially important for young children and infants. Make sure to take the precautions needed, while still being able to enjoy outdoor time this summer. 

Keep your skin covered

Wearing long sleeves and pants helps keep mosquitoes from biting, but it’s not always practical in the summer heat. If you must wear short sleeves or shorts, apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin. Avoid perfumes and colognes as these can attract mosquitoes. This is important when spending time in an area with a high risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, such as the Zika virus.

Hang Mosquito Netting Over Your Bed

If you’re planning to sleep outdoors or in a room with open windows, hang mosquito netting over your bed. This helps keep mosquitoes from biting you while you sleep. Ensure that the netting is all around so mosquitoes can’t find their way inside. Additionally, treat the net and your clothing with permethrin. This will help to keep mosquitoes from landing on them and biting you.

Mosquitoes can ruin a perfectly good summer day. Be sure to take the necessary precautions to avoid being bitten by these pests, and protect your loved ones. If you do get bitten, treat the bite immediately to prevent infection. Follow these simple tips to avoid being bitten and enjoy your time outdoors.

By Lizzie Weakley

Lizzie is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.