Turn on a fan to keep mosquitoes from flying nearby.
Nothing ruins an outdoor get-together like a buzzing swarm of mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide that you release through your nose and mouth when you exhale. But don't hold your breath -- you can make mosquitoes disappear by making your environment less mosquito-friendly. Make your home and yard a mosquito-free zone with natural and store-bought remedies that you may already have in the house.
Natural Remedies
Scare away mosquitoes with natural remedies you may already have lying around the house. Peel an orange, then rub the peels all over your skin. Mosquitoes hate the smell of oranges, and the oil on the peels will stay on your skin longer than the juice of the orange. If you don't have oranges, lemons will work just as well.
Although it's not scientifically proven to work, some experts believe that taking B-1 supplements will change the scent of your skin. The new smell will repel mosquitoes, keeping them from biting you.
Store-bought Remedies
Store-bought insect repellents that contain at least 35 percent DEET are the most effective. Products that contain DEET are toxic -- do not put DEET products on the hands or faces of young children. The Mayo Clinic advises not to use DEET products on infants.
Oil of lemon eucalyptus is an essential oil that repels mosquitoes and other bugs as effectively as low concentrations of DEET. You can purchase oil of lemon eucalyptus at health food stores. Do not use oil of lemon eucalyptus on children that are younger than three years of age.
Protective Clothing
Wearing a layer of protective clothing over your skin will help protect against mosquitoes. Wear tight-fitting long pants and long-sleeved shirts that cover as much of your skin as possible. If possible, wear long socks and tuck your pant legs into them. Coat your shoes and boots with a permethrin spray, available at camping stores. Some camping stores sell clothing with a permethrin coating that will repel mosquitoes.
For the Home
Even if your entire body is coated in bug spray, mosquitoes may still feel welcome in your home. Keep mosquitoes out by turning on a ceiling fan. Mosquitoes cannot fly in windy conditions and will seek out a calmer location.
Burning citronella candles may help keep mosquitoes away from your front porch, but they are not scientifically proven to repel mosquitoes. Instead, plant marigolds in your yard. Mosquitoes hate the scent of marigolds and will stay away from your house.
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