BUGGING YOU
I’m an exterminator – my warning about this summer’s strong mosquito season and five ways to protect yourself
AN exterminator has revealed a series of ways people can protect themselves from mosquitoes this summer.
The bugs thrive in temperatures above 50F and the mosquito season reaches its peak during the hot months.
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Experts at Arrow Exterminators Houston have recommended how you can keep the bugs out of the home.
GET RID OF STANDING WATER
Mosquitoes lay eggs as they breed in standing water and need between 10-14 days to develop.
The pests only need around half an inch of water to lay their eggs.
Holes should be cut in trashcan lids, flower pots, and buckets so water can be quickly drained when there are torrential downpours.
This strategy also stops water from building up.
Rain gutters should also be cleaned regularly to prevent a buildup of standing water.
KEEP SWIMMING POOLS COVERED
Those that are lucky to have a swimming pool in their backyard should keep it covered when they’re not using it, experts told .
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This will stop mosquitos from laying eggs and breeding.
And, you should check the cover frequently to see if there is any water that needs draining.
CUT BACK ON UNNECESSARY PLANTS
Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide and damp plants.
The bugs are renowned for their love of flowers, water lilies, and water lettuce.
But, those that are keen gardeners or love cooking may want to grow herbs such as basil, lavender, or rosemary.
The woody smell of rosemary is what helps repel the bug, according to gardening experts at
USE YELLOW BUG LIGHTS
Yellow is one of the colors that mosquitoes are not attracted to.
The bugs hate colors such as yellow, pink, and white because they all reflect heat.
Insects such as mosquitos cannot see warmer colors.
But, a yellow light bulb doesn’t get rid of the insects entirely – it only deters them.
INSTALL SCREENS
Screens that don't have any gaps in them will stop mosquitoes from entering your home.
And, it also reduces the risk of being bitten by a mosquito.
Scratching mosquito bites can lead to infection and the bugs carry diseases such as the West Nile virus and malaria.
Mesh screens will not only stop mosquitos, but they will also prevent other insects from entering your home too.
But, you should check it to see if it has any holes before erecting it.
Meanwhile, outdoor lover and cleaning expert Misty Harrison has revealed she uses a $3 product to banish the bugs.
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In one of her TikTok clips, she emptied a container and filled it with Pine-Sol and a bit of water.
And, an expert has revealed a series of top tips to keep insects out of the home this summer.
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