Updated on October 10th, 2024
Mosquito season can feel endless. But don’t worry—we're here to help you defeat those relentless invaders and keep your family bite-free. With expert tips and proven solutions, we’ll show you how to reclaim your home from these pesky mosquitoes and enjoy your summer in peace.
In this post, we’ll explore exactly what you need to do to keep mosquitoes away from your home and your loved ones.
But first, it’s important to understand the life cycle of a mosquito. Why? Because knowing how they reproduce and survive will help you target them more effectively.
Life cycle of a mosquito
A mosquito has a unique life cycle; most of it being underwater.
Egg: Adult mosquitoes lay eggs on water surfaces in clusters called rafts, commonly found in lakes, ponds, swamps, marshes, and even small containers like wading pools. Eggs can also be deposited in soil near plants in areas prone to flooding. While they typically hatch within days, certain mosquito species, like Aedes, can lay eggs in various environments, including drains and trash cans. Studies show that these eggs can remain dormant for months, waiting for favorable conditions to rehydrate and hatch, allowing them to survive long dry periods.
Larvae: After hatching, mosquito larvae, often called "wrigglers," live in water and go through four growth stages, molting several times. Depending on species, water temperature and food availability, this stage lasts between 4 to 14 days. Larvae feed on microorganisms and stay near the surface to breathe using siphon tubes.
Pupae: In the pupal stage, often called "tumblers" due to their flipping motion in the water, mosquitoes no longer feed. They respond to light and shadows by moving to deeper water but must surface to breathe. This stage lasts up to four days, after which the adult mosquito emerges, resting on the water’s surface to dry and harden before taking flight.
Adult: An adult mosquito's exoskeleton needs to dry and harden, and the wings must dry off before they can take flight. This stage can take a couple of days. Males will hang around and wait to breed again, while the female goes out in search of a blood meal so that she can return to breed and begin the process again.
How to keep mosquitoes away: Eight effective strategies
Mosquitoes may seem impossible to avoid, but with a few practical steps, you can drastically reduce their presence around your home. Here are eight tried-and-true methods to keep mosquitoes at bay:
Eliminate breeding sites
Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water—no matter how small. Common places include flower pots, bird baths, gutters and even abandoned tires. Scout your yard for these hidden breeding grounds and empty, clean or remove any standing water to prevent new mosquitoes from hatching.
Install window and door screens
Keep your home secure by fitting fine mesh screens on windows and doors. This prevents mosquitoes from entering while still allowing fresh air to flow inside.
Utilize mosquito nets
For an extra layer of protection during the night, use mosquito nets around your bed. These nets act as a physical barrier, ensuring you sleep peacefully without the risk of bites.
Use mosquito repellents
Natural repellents can be highly effective. Lemon eucalyptus oil—which has been in use since the 1940s—is one of the best-known options. Approved by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this oil has proven to provide up to 95% protection against mosquitoes for several hours. In a 2014 study, it was shown that lemon eucalyptus oil—used in a 32% concentration—offered up to 3 hours of mosquito protection. Directions: Mix one part lemon eucalyptus oil with ten parts witch hazel or sunflower oil. Shake well and apply to exposed skin and clothing. (NOT recommended for children under three.) Other natural repellents to consider include citronella, basil, lavender, rosemary, cinnamon, and peppermint, which have all demonstrated mosquito-repelling properties.
Dress appropriately
During peak mosquito activity (dawn and dusk), wear long-sleeved shirts and pants. Avoid tight-fitting clothing like leggings, as mosquitoes can bite through thin fabrics.
Landscape for mosquito control
Trim overgrown vegetation around your home to reduce mosquito hiding spots. You can also plant natural mosquito repellents such as basil, lemongrass and citronella grass to keep mosquitoes away from your outdoor spaces.
Unleash fans to create wind barriers
Mosquitoes struggle to fly in windy conditions. Use fans on patios or outdoor areas to make them mosquito-free zones.
Create DIY mosquito traps
For the DIY enthusiasts, building a mosquito trap is a simple yet effective solution. Using just a few household ingredients, you can lure mosquitoes to their demise. Directions: Mix 1 cup of warm water with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until dissolved. Then, add ¼ teaspoon of active dry yeast and let it ferment for a few hours. Place the mixture in a container with a funnel-like entrance. The mosquitoes will be drawn to the mixture, but once inside, they’ll be trapped and unable to escape.
