Gatherings with family and friends are back! Also back? Mosquitoes and other flying insects that annoy, irritate and generally make outdoor activities less enjoyable for everyone. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to keep bugs at bay and the outdoor adventures going strong.
“You don’t have to resort to chemical mosquito repellents if bugs are bothering you,” says Brandon Roach, executive vice president of New Product Development and Engineering at Skeeter Hawk, a brand with a full line of all-natural mosquito and flying insect defense products. “A few smart strategies and natural tools will help you and loved ones keep mosquitoes away.”
Whether you’re going on a walk, relaxing on the patio or hosting a gathering in your backyard, you want to enjoy your time outdoors. Here are seven natural solutions to solve mosquito problems:
1) Avoid standing water
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so at home, eliminate places in your yard where water accumulates, such as buckets, pots and lids. Put containers away or turn them over so they don’t catch water. For things like pools and bird baths, remember to keep water fresh.
2) Add perimeter protection
Like an invisible forcefield, a Skeeter Hawk Mosquito Trap can be used in your favorite outdoor spaces like campsites, pools and backyard patios. These effective traps use a whisper quiet fan and long-lasting patent-pending UV LED technology to attract and trap mosquitoes and other flying insects.
3) Circulate air
When air is calm it’s easy for mosquitoes to fly around. When it’s windy, mosquitoes have a more difficult time getting where they want. Therefore, if you’re hosting a gathering at your home and air is stagnant, consider running fans if possible. You may add portable fans to patios, decks and other outdoors areas where people gather.
4) Cover up
Add a barrier between yourself and mosquitoes with your clothing. Even during warm weather you may opt for cotton clothing that breathes to keep you cool. In addition to shirts and pants that cover your skin, consider skipping the sandals and wear socks and closed-toe shoes to protect feet and ankles. Wearing a hat helps protect your head, too.
5) Wear personal repellents
When bugs are bugging you, you don’t need to resort to heavy chemical repellents. Skeeter Hawk offers personal wristbands and carabiners that are portable and easy to wear, repelling bugs with all-natural essential oils not dominated by citronella. Just wear on the wrist or ankle, or add to a belt loop or backpack. No bugs, no foul smell.
6) Wear lighter colors
Research shows that dark colors like black, navy blue and red are more attractive to mosquitoes. When deciding what to wear before heading outside, consider light colors that not only keep you cool, but also help repel these insects. Whites and pastels may be a good option.
7) Avoid perfumes
Strong smells are like a siren call for mosquitoes, so the next time you’ll be heading outdoors, skip the perfume or cologne. Don’t forget about other strongly scented products you may use including deodorant and soaps. You may not be able to limit use of these personal products, but you can opt for light or no-scent versions.
For more information about mosquitoes and natural options for keeping them at bay, visit skeeter-hawk.com. Products can be used independently or in combination for layers of customized protection so you can fully enjoy the outdoors.
