How to Repel Mosquitoes Easily

Mosquito bites, while itchy and bothersome, can be avoided.

It is not the actual bite of the mosquito that bothers most people--it is what comes after the bite. Mosquito bites are extremely itchy; so itchy that it may be difficult for people to sleep when they have one. The best way to deal with mosquito bites is by preventing them from happening. Repelling mosquitoes and preventing mosquito bites can be done quickly and easily, saving you from hours of sleepless and itchy nights.

Instructions

1. Remove any nearby bodies of standing water, such as a bird bath or plant pitcher. Mosquitoes are attracted to and breed in standing water.

2. Wear long-sleeved, light-colored clothing. Creating a physical barrier between you and mosquitoes is very helpful in preventing bites.

3. Spray a mosquito repellent that contains DEET on you and your clothing. It is better to spray the repellent on your clothing, as it will thereby linger longer. Your skin will eventually absorb the repellent you spray on, cutting the length of effectiveness shorter.

4. Cover strollers and infant carriers with mosquito netting to prevent bites on very young children.

5. Mosquitoes tend to swarm shortly before and after dusk. Minimize outdoor exposure during those hours.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are allergic to DEET, choose a repellent that contains citronella or eucalyptus.

• DEET should not be applied on children under 2 months.

• Plant based repellents should not be applied on children under 3 years of age.

References

• NBC 2: Expert Offers Mosquito Repelling Tips
• Florida Mosquito Control: Avoidng and Repelling Mosquitoes
• CBC: You Can't Reason With A Mosquito