There’s no denying the Florida sunshine and weather provide the perfect setting to be outdoors. While we may be enjoying the beach or a round of golf, mosquitoes are taking advantage of us with their persistent buzzing and biting. Many folks are interested in natural mosquito repellent. With the right mosquito control methods you can practice at home, you’ll find these annoying insects will be minimized, and your time outdoors will be more pleasant. So, how do you stop mosquitoes from biting you?
Why Do Mosquitoes Bite?
Before getting into prevention methods, let’s look at why mosquitoes bite in the first place.
Female mosquitoes require a blood meal to nourish their eggs. They use specialized sensors to detect the carbon dioxide, body heat, and body odor emitted by humans, which leads them to their next meal.
Mosquitoes have evolved to seek out these clues as indicators of a potential blood source. Carbon dioxide is a primary attractant for mosquitoes, whether it be animals or humans. Additionally, they are sensitive to lactic acid, uric acid, and ammonia found in human sweat and breath. These chemicals serve as signals to mosquitoes that a food source is nearby.
Why are mosquitoes attracted to humans?
Mosquitoes’ attraction to us goes beyond their need for a blood meal. Factors that appeal to mosquitoes include:
- Carbon Dioxide Emission. Mosquitoes have specialized receptors that detect carbon dioxide, which we exhale with every breath. The higher the concentration of carbon dioxide, the more attracted mosquitoes are to the source.
- Body Heat. Mosquitoes are sensitive to temperature differentials and fascinated with the warmth emitted by human bodies. Areas of increased blood flow, such as the head, neck, and wrists, emit more heat, making us prime targets for mosquito bites.
- Body Odor. We emit various volatile compounds through our sweat and skin bacteria, creating a distinct body odor. Certain chemicals, such as lactic acid and ammonia, are particularly attractive to mosquitoes and help them easily locate us.
- Genetics. Research suggests that genetics plays a role in determining an individual’s attractiveness to mosquitoes. Certain genetic factors influence the production of chemicals in sweat and skin bacteria, making some people more appealing to mosquitoes than others.
- Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, such as black and navy blue. One theory that may explain this phenomenon is mosquitoes use their IR21a receptor, or heat-sensing antenna, to locate their next meal. Since these dark hues trap heat, mosquitoes are more likely to bite people wearing these shades.
In addition, wearing dark colors also makes us sweat more, especially when combined with exercise. And mosquitoes love the excess CO2 released when you perspire.
What Is The Most Effective Mosquito Control At Home?
Below are a few practical methods you can do at home that will serve as natural mosquito repellents.
- Choose light-colored clothing. As you plan your outdoor adventure, reach for white or pastels from your closet as a natural mosquito repellent. Additionally, consider wearing clothing treated with permethrin, a mosquito repellent, for added protection.
- Ensure minimal skin is exposed. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks before heading outdoors. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing, as tight-fitting garments can make it easier for mosquitoes to bite through fabric. Tuck pants into socks, and shirts into pants, to create a natural mosquito repellent.
- Remove areas of standing water. Another mosquito control method at home is to eliminate any standing water, such as birdbaths, flowerpots, pet bowls, car and boat covers, buckets, and gardening equipment. Regularly empty and clean containers, like garbage and recycling bins, which may collect water. This pro-active method will control mosquito breeding.
- Keep your lawn and gutters clean. Mosquitoes prefer shaded, damp areas, so maintain your lawn by mowing regularly and trimming vegetation. Another effective mosquito control method at home is to clean debris from gutters to prevent water accumulation and breeding sites.
- Explore natural mosquito repellents. Certain essential oils, such as citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus, can function as natural mosquito repellents.
- Use insect repellents. Those containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are most effective for mosquito control.
- Install or repair windows or lanai screens. An effective and natural mosquito repellent, this will help to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
- Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk. This is the time mosquitoes are most active, so plan your day accordingly.
- Call a professional mosquito pest control company. When you partner with Turner Pest Control, you will receive effective mosquito control for your home.
What Is The Best Outdoor Mosquito Repellent System?
Turner’s mosquito misting service is a great solution for those looking for the best mosquito control program in Florida.
The automated MistAway system is tailored to the homeowner’s needs, depending on the severity of the infestation, property size, etc. This outdoor mosquito repellent system consists of strategically placed nozzles that disperse a fine mist of insecticide at scheduled intervals, targeting areas where mosquitoes breed and rest.
What is The Best Mosquito Control Near Me?
Considered one of the best mosquito control programs in Florida, the MistAway system offers convenience, effectiveness, and peace of mind by creating a mosquito-free setting for you and your family. We also offer traditional misting service and a ThermaShield mosquito repellent system.
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your day! Fight back with these natural mosquito-repellent tips.
And when that’s not enough to ward off these annoying insects, call us for professional mosquito control in your community at (888)680-2558 or schedule a free inspection here.
