10 Thrifty Ways to Deal with Mosquitoes

I am a mosquito magnet. If there is one around, it will find me. This past week while I was at camp, many mosquitos found me. I’ve done a little research and found some inexpensive ways that you can fight off mosquitoes.

1. Keep your lawn mowed and bushes trimmed. This eliminates having a nice place for mosquitoes to rest.

2. Keep spare tires and other items that collect water stored in a sheltered area. This cuts down on the amount of rain these items can collect. Empty standing water from buckets, boats, planters, wheelbarrows, etc.

3. Make sure roof gutters drain properly to prevent standing water.

4. Change the water in bird baths at least once a week or install a fountain or dripper to keep the water moving.

5. Wear light colored clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark clothes.

6. Keep your body covered as much as possible. Yes, mosquitoes can find their way through the fabric, but it helps to cut down on the number of bites.

7. Spray garlic powder and water all over the yard.

8. Plant mosquito deterring plants around your yard such as citronella, marigolds, basil, lavender, and catnip.

9. Try hiding your scent. Some people are sold on the effects of using Bounce dryer sheets, Vicks VapoRub and Avon’s Skin So Soft. Some prefer eating garlic or lemons or taking B1 Vitamins.

10. When all else fails, use the bug spray. I had to resort to this at camp last week. I also found that the lotion worked better than the spray, although the smell was worse.

Well, does this have you itching? It does me! Do you have any tips for fighting off mosquitoes?