How to Get Rid of Mosquitos Inside Your House
- Eliminate Standing Water
- Install Window Screens
- Use Mosquito Repellents
- Light Citronella Candles
- Use Essential Oils
- Consider Bug Lights
- Ventilate Property
- Dispose of Sugary Food
- Use Mosquito Nets
- Get Professional Mosquito Control
1. Eliminate Standing Water
Anything in your yard that can hold water can potentially become a mosquito breeding zone. It doesn't take much; just a teaspoon of water is enough to foster mosquitoes. After it rains, make sure you do a quick check around your yard for any standing water and dump it out. Some common mosquito breeding zones include:
- Bird Baths
- Clogged Gutters
- Puddles
- Flower Pot Saucers
- Tire Swings and Toys
- Tree Holes and Stumps
- Ponds and Water Features
2. Install Window Screens
Window screens are an essential feature of any home, especially in regions where mosquitoes are prevalent. Screens allow you to keep your windows and doors open at night, promoting natural ventilation while keeping mosquitoes and other insects outside, where they belong.
3. Use Mosquito Repellents
If you just want to avoid these bloodsuckers and aren't concerned about controlling the mosquito population, you can always go the easy route and cover yourself with mosquito repellant. The Centers For Disease Control recommends using products that contain DEET.
4. Light Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are a staple of any backyard barbecue to ensure these buzzing pests don't ruin your special occasion. But the downside to these candles is that they only work for a short period and unless you want your guests huddled around a small candle, it's not the most ideal method.
5. Use Essential Oils
Some essential oils have been used as natural mosquito repellants for thousands of years. Mix them with a carrier oil and apply them to your skin or diffuse them indoors.
- Basil
- Bergamot
- Catnip
- Garlic
- Lavender
- Lemon Balm
- Lemongrass
- Marigold
- Neem
- Peppermint
- Rosemary
While these scents can help repel mosquitoes to some extent, it's important to understand that their effectiveness can vary.
6. Use Bug Lights
Mosquitoes are attracted to light and many of us use outdoor lighting at night which can bring unwanted mosquitoes too close to our homes. Instead of turning off the lights try installing bug lights. These aren't the mosquito zappers that kill anything that flies into them; these lights give off a special hue that is not attractive to mosquitoes or other insects for that matter.
7. Ventilate Properly
Ensure good air circulation in your home. Mosquitoes are small and light, so they prefer still air so they can control themselves in flight. Using fans or ventilation systems to keep the air moving in your home can make it difficult for mosquitoes to home in on you.
8. Dispose of Sugary Food
Mosquitoes are not just attracted to the warmth of our bodies; they're also drawn to the sweet scent of sugary foods and alcoholic beverages such as:
- Soda
- Fruit Juices
- Beer
- Wine
- Wine coolers
- Seltzers
When these containers are left open or unsealed, they emit a sweet fragrance that acts like a dinner bell for mosquitoes. To prevent this, always seal your beverage containers tightly or transfer them to airtight containers before storing them. This simple step can go a long way in reducing mosquito attraction.
9. Use Mosquito Nets
One of the simplest yet highly effective ways to keep mosquitoes at bay indoors is to use mosquito nets. These fine mesh screens create a physical barrier between you and these blood-sucking pests, ensuring a peaceful and bite-free night's sleep. Place mosquito nets over beds and cribs to create a physical barrier that prevents mosquitoes from reaching you while you sleep.
10. Get Professional Mosquito Control
There are many effective do-it-yourself methods to reduce the mosquito population in and around your home, but sometimes it's best to leave the battle against mosquitoes to the professionals. Professional pest control companies have trained technicians who specialize in mosquito control. They understand mosquito behavior and breeding habits, enabling them to implement targeted and effective strategies to reduce mosquito populations.
What Smells Do Mosquitoes Hate?
Mosquitoes are repelled by several scents and odors. While these scents may not repel all mosquitoes, they can help deter them to some extent. Here are some smells that mosquitoes tend to dislike:
Citronella: Citronella is one of the most common types of natural mosquito repellent. It's often found in candles, torches, and essential oils used in outdoor settings to create a mosquito-free zone.
Lemon Eucalyptus: Lemon eucalyptus oil contains citronellal. It can be used as a spray repellent or in diffusers.
Lavender: The scent of lavender is pleasant to humans but repels mosquitoes. Plant lavender in your garden, and around patios, or use the essential oils in an oil diffuser.
Peppermint: Mosquitoes are not fans of the strong scent of peppermint. You can use peppermint oil in a spray or apply it to your skin as a repellent.
Basil: Basil emits a scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Planting basil in your garden or near entryways can help deter them.
How Are Mosquitos Getting in My House?
Here are common ways mosquitoes can get inside:
Open Doors and Windows: Use screens on doors and windows to create a barrier that allows fresh air in but keeps mosquitoes out.
Damaged Screens: Repair or replace damaged screens to maintain their effectiveness.
Cracks and Gaps: Seal any cracks or gaps in walls and around windows and doors using caulk or weatherstripping. Pay attention to areas where utilities enter your home.
Ventilation Systems: Inspect and maintain your ventilation systems regularly to ensure they are sealed and free from damage.
Getting Rid of Mosquitos Bottom Line
Mosquitoes are tiny insects and can find their way into your house through various means. It is essential to identify and address these entry points to keep your home mosquito-free. And once you've mosquito-proofed your home, you can start to eliminate any that have already entered. By combining the strategies listed above, you can quickly get rid of mosquitos inside your house or apartment.
Getting Rid of Mosquitos FAQs
Does Vinegar Kill Mosquitoes?
Vinegar emits a strong odor that can deter mosquitoes from coming near. Mixing vinegar with water and spraying it around your outdoor seating areas, doorways, and windows can help create a barrier that keeps mosquitoes at bay. However, this repellent effect is temporary and may require reapplication.
What is the Best Home Remedy to Keep Mosquitoes Away?
There are several home remedies that can help deter mosquitoes. While none are foolproof on their own, combining a few methods can enhance their effectiveness. However, the most effective way to reduce the mosquito population in your yard is by eliminating any instances of standing water on your property.
Can My Clothes Attract Mosquitoes?
Your choice of clothing can influence whether mosquitoes are more attracted to you or the person next to you. Mosquitoes are drawn to bright colors, so wearing something light-colored and loose-fitting is recommended. Tight clothes, like jeans, can be easily pierced by mosquitoes. Additionally, mosquitoes also have sensors that can detect sweat, so avoid wearing dark-colored clothing as it retains body heat and can lead to increased sweating.