Homemade Remedy to Keep Bugs Off of My Screens

Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.

There is an array of homemade insect repellents that you can safely use to keep bugs away from your screens and near entryways to your home. Other insect repellents like pesticides do work, but there is also a risk of you or your children coming into contact with harsh chemicals. Mosquitoes especially can be a problem in the spring and summer months, and they are repelled by certain things in nature.

Natural Oils

Natural oils are one of the most effective ways to keep bugs away. Mosquitoes are especially deterred by catnip oil. Other oils that repel all bugs are lavender, rose geranium and lemon balm (also widely known as citronella). Soybean oil is also a safe but effective way to get rid of bugs. Rub a few drops of the essential oils on your screens. Sometimes other animals can be affected by their use, so if you have a family pet, use sparingly.

Leaves

Leaves are also used as insect repellents. Pennyroyal tea, elder and mint are all effective at getting rid of bugs. Put leaves in a vase near your screen, or rub the leaves together on spots where you do not want bugs. This may only be effective for several hours, so you may have to frequently repeat the process.

Citronella

Citronella is perhaps the most popular way to deter bugs, especially mosquitoes, in the summer. Bugs are naturally repelled by smoke. Put a citronella candle near screens and doors. You can also burn incense near windows and doors.

Other Repellents

Put a bowl of molasses with black pepper outside near entryways to deter houseflies. If you see bees or wasps near screens and do not want to use strong pesticides, spraying hairspray will kill them. Placing apple cider vinegar near windows and doors is also believed to prevent bugs.

Prevention

Sometimes an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To minimize attraction of bugs near your windows and doors, turn off all lights, especially when sleeping. Bugs, especially mosquitoes, are attracted to light and will congregate near lighted areas. Mosquitoes are also drawn to water. Do not leave water outside near screens. Flies are attracted to garbage, so keep trash cans and piles far away from screens. Lastly, check your screens for tears or holes, and replace them, if needed.

References

• The Daily Green: Off-the-Shelf and Homemade Natural Insect Repellents
• Mosquito Solutions: All Natural Catnip Shield
• Health Canada: Insect Repellents
• Tipking: Deter Flying Insects From Your Home