DIY Mosquito Control Tips
DIY Mosquito Control Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Nothing ruins a summer evening faster than mosquitoes buzzing around. These pests aren't just annoying—they can carry diseases like West Nile virus and Zika. While professional treatments are the most reliable solution, there are several DIY steps DMV homeowners can take to reduce mosquito activity in their yards.
Here are some of the best tips PestNow recommends for keeping mosquitoes away.
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes need water to lay eggs, and even a small amount is enough. A bottle cap full of water can produce dozens of mosquitoes.
DIY Tip:
Empty birdbaths, buckets, kiddie pools, and plant saucers at least once a week.
Check clogged gutters for trapped water.
Change water in pet bowls daily.
Keep the Yard Tidy
Overgrown grass, shrubs, and leaf piles provide shade and resting spots for mosquitoes during the day.
DIY Tip:
Mow the lawn regularly.
Trim bushes and shrubs.
Clear away leaves, mulch piles, or tall weeds.
Use Outdoor Fans and Lighting
Mosquitoes are weak fliers and tend to avoid windy areas. They're also attracted to bright lights around porches and patios.
DIY Tip:
Set up oscillating fans on decks or patios to keep mosquitoes from hovering.
Replace bright outdoor bulbs with yellow "bug lights," which are less attractive to insects.
Try Natural Repellents
Certain scents can help keep mosquitoes away. While not as strong as professional products, they can add an extra layer of protection.
DIY Tip:
Burn citronella candles during outdoor gatherings.
Plant mosquito-repelling herbs like basil, lavender, and lemongrass near patios.
Use essential oil sprays with eucalyptus or peppermint.
Wear Protective Clothing
When spending time outside, clothing choices can make a difference.
DIY Tip:
Wear long sleeves and pants that fit loosely. Loose fabric keeps the material off your skin, which makes it harder for mosquitoes to bite through
Choose light-colored fabrics, since mosquitoes are drawn to dark colors.
Treat clothing and gear (not skin) with a permethrin spray according to the label; it bonds to fabric and keeps working through several washes.
On exposed skin, use an EPA-registered repellent (like DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535) and reapply as directed. Skip perfumes or scented lotions before heading out.
Limit Mosquito Entry Indoors
Mosquitoes can sneak inside just like other pests.
DIY Tip:
Repair torn window screens.
Keep doors closed as much as possible.
Use screen doors on patios and porches.
When DIY Isn't Enough
DIY steps can reduce mosquito activity, but they won't eliminate the problem entirely. Mosquitoes are resilient, and in areas with heavy infestations, DMV homeowners may still notice frequent bites.
That's where PestNow's professional mosquito treatments make the difference. With targeted solutions that go beyond DIY methods, PestNow helps homeowners enjoy their yards without constant swatting and scratching.
Don't let mosquitoes take over your summer. Contact PestNow for expert mosquito control today.
