Whether it is a warm summer or a cold evening, the mosquito issue is perpetual. Fortunately, there are many ways to control and reduce exposure to mosquitoes within the household. While dozens of chemical mosquito repellents are available, there are also organic solutions to address the problem. To find the ideal solution to get rid of mosquitoes in the household, one has to implement some trial-and-error methods to see what best works for them.
Why choose homemade solutions?
Before deciding to opt for a homemade mosquito killer, it is crucial to assess the benefits and drawbacks. One of the most common reasons people consider homemade solutions is the use of safe ingredients. Since DIY solutions are mostly made with safe products, the issue of a repellent being toxic to pets, babies, and everyone in the family does not arise. More often than not, homemade solutions are cost-effective. But the cost has to be measured against the frequency and extent of the mosquito problem. Homemade mosquito killers are budget-friendly, but they might take time to show results. Some of them are easy to make as they consist of common ingredients that one can find in the kitchen or a local supermarket. Further, homemade options are more eco-friendly as they release fewer chemicals.
Popular homemade mosquito repellents
Sometimes, the simplest solutions turn out to be the most effective. One can try some homemade mosquito repellents to create a pest-free environment and go outdoors without worrying about the threat of mosquitoes.
Onion, garlic, and cayenne pepper
The solution can be made with ingredients from the kitchen. Chop an onion and garlic and add 4 cups of water, along with 4 tablespoons of cayenne pepper. Generously add a tablespoon of dish soap to this mixture. Then, pour it into an airtight glass jar. Find a cool, dark space in the house and place the jar there. Now, transfer it to a spray bottle and spray it around the house, especially in the nooks and corners where mosquitoes are found. The mixture will ideally last around a week.
Apple cider vinegar with essential oils
Take around ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar, ¼ witch hazel (a plant that has anti-inflammatory properties), and around 15-20 drops of any essential oil. There is a range of essential oils to choose from, such as tea tree, rosemary, citronella, and eucalyptus. Put everything in a spray bottle and spray it on exposed skin to keep mosquitoes and other insects away. The smell of the essential oils is usually quite strong, which can cover the smell of sweat, which attracts mosquitoes.
Vinegar and baking soda
Add vinegar to a container filled with a tablespoon of baking soda. Mix it well and leave the container slightly open for mosquitoes to enter. This is an easy-to-make homemade mosquito killer. When baking soda is combined with vinegar, it produces carbon dioxide, which can trap mosquitoes.
Cinnamon spray
Make a mix of cinnamon and dish soap. First, add a tablespoon of cinnamon to water, boil it, and whisk. Strain the liquid, add a spoonful of liquid soap, and stir well. The strong aroma of cinnamon can be overwhelming and can help repel mosquitoes. If one wants to sit on the porch and enjoy the sunset, spray the solution outside to prevent mosquitoes.
Tips to keep a space mosquito-free
While homemade solutions can help repel mosquitoes, one can also take other measures to create an environment that does not attract mosquitoes.
Avoid keeping still water
Stagnant water attracts mosquitoes. Avoid water stagnation in large open containers and flower pots to prevent mosquito infestation.
Keep a clean environment
Mosquitoes thrive in a dirty and cluttered environment. So, keep a clean yard and an organized environment. Create a surrounding where mosquitoes cannot lay eggs and clear up any swamps or marshes in the neighborhood.
Place mosquito-repelling plants
Some smells naturally repel mosquitoes. Placing mosquito-repelling plants like basil, lavender, and neem can act as an additional layer of protection while enhancing the natural appeal of the space.
Homemade solutions vs. chemical repellents
The question that commonly arises is whether homemade solutions are as effective as chemical repellents. To make homemade mosquito killers work, one needs to prepare and use them properly. While some may not provide instant results, one can gradually see the benefits. Homemade solutions offer long-term benefits when one uses them consistently. They are also relatively safer than chemical repellents. But avoid spraying any homemade solution that contains essential oils directly onto kids or pets, as they can be sensitive to them. Further, buying commercial mosquito repellents is a recurring expense, so natural solutions are a cost-effective option.