How to Get Rid of Flies & Mosquitoes at an Outdoor Party

Certain essential oils repel flies and mosquitoes.

Proactive homeowners prevent the presence of flies and mosquitoes in the yard with impeccable sanitation, including the removal of stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed. If you are planning an outdoor party soon, it might be too late to completely eliminate flying pests around your home. Insect repellent products are the most effective way to keep flies and mosquitoes away from you and your guests, allowing everyone to enjoy their time outside.

Things You'll Need

• Citronella candles
• Vegetable oil
• Citronella, peppermint, pennyroyal or lemongrass essential oil

Instructions

1. Keep all garbage inside, or store it in airtight trash cans.

2. Place multiple citronella candles on tables around the party area, within 1 or 2 feet of where people will sit. Citronella has been used since 1882 to repel flying pests.

3. Add a drop of essential oil to 1 cup of vegetable oil to make a topical insect repellent. You can also use a commercial insect repellent labeled for use against mosquitoes and flies. Use a repellent with essential oils, if possible, because DEET can be toxic to children. Offer enough repellent to protect your guests, who might not have thought to bring their own.

4. Wear a long-sleeve shirt and long pants and encourage your guests to do the same to prevent insect bites.

References

• North Carolina State University; Insect Repellent Products; Michael Waldvogel and Charles Apperson
• University of Florida; Biting Flies; P.G. Koehler and F. M. Oi