9 ways to combat mosquitoes naturally

Yahoo! Homes readers so loved a previous slideshow on 10 natural repellents that pests really hatethat we asked Bob Vila if he'd write an exclusive piece for us zeroing in on perhaps the worst villain of all: the mosquito. So before they breed, congregate, bite, and drive you indoors, consider these natural ways to combat summer's worst foe. | By Bob Vila,BobVila.com
Photo by vintageindie.typepad.com
Turn On a Fan

Mosquitoes are lightweights. A fan blowing at a speed of two miles per hour simply is overpowering to a mosquito. So another option is to strategically place fans around your deck or patio to get a good bug-free breeze going.
Photo by parkseed.com
Plant Lemon Grass

Thai lemon grass contains citronella oil, which has a strong scent that makes it hard for mosquitos to find you. At the same time, lemon grass is a beautiful mounding perennial. Plant some on your property wherever your family and friends like to congregate. 
Photo by moutainbike-expedition-team.de
Dress Appropriately

Certain species of mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors like black, blue, and red. And they are all attracted to heat. So stay cool by wearing lighter colors. While you're at it, try to avoid wearing scented perfumes or lotions. 
Photo by bedruum.com
Change Your Lightbulbs
Mosquitoes aren’t attracted to all kinds of light—just some. Instead of standard bulbs, opt for LEDs, yellow "bug lights", or sodium lamps. That should reduce the number of mosquitoes swarming as you go in and out of the house during evening hours.
Photo by etsy.com
 Try Out Catnip Oil
Believe it or not, the essential oil in catnip, nepetalactone, repels mosquitos more effectively than DEET. Though you may have to dodge your neighbor's cat as a result, catnip oil-based insect repellant does a good job of protecting exposed skin.
Photo by batguys.com
Build a Bat House

In only one hour, a bat can eat hundreds of insects, mosquitoes included. Build or buy a bat house, hang it in a well-ventilated area, and let those web-winged creatures do their thing.
Photo by abc.net.au
Spray On Garlic

Yes, really. Garlic makes an effective natural mosquito repellant. Mix one part garlic juice with five parts water. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spritz yourself as needed. As a side benefit, you will also repel vampires!
Photo by theeagleonline.com
Remove Standing Water


Standing water is where mosquitoes make more mosquitoes. Limit the insects' ability to breed by clearing your gutters of clogs, filling in sunken parts of your lawn, and regularly changing the water in your bird bath or kiddie pool.
Photo by Photo by backcountryedge.com
Use Natural Insect Spray



Made with five natural essential oils, Herbal Armor was voted "Best Gear of the Year" byNational Geographic. Before heading outside, grab a bottle of this popular DEET-free insect repellant spray; reapply every two hours.



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