Mosquitos are the bane of our existence during the summer! If those annoying bugs manage to bite us, they leave behind irritating, itchy welts that may not go away for days. What’s worse is that many also carry diseases that we absolutely do not want. So, should we stay indoors and avoid warm summer nights because of mosquitoes? No! Here are some tips for protecting yourself from these pesky creatures.
Use Insect Repellent
The suggestion that screams, “Duh!” But we have to say it. Per the CDC guidelines, the best insect repellants to use to protect yourself and those around you consist of:
These options are all EPA-registered and evaluated for thorough effectiveness.
Our Picks:
Coleman Skinsmart Insect Repellent ($10.60, shop here)
OFF! Sportsmen Deep Woods Insect Repellent 3 ($6.88, shop here)
OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent ($7.49, shop here)
Wear Sneakers
Zika-carrying mosquitoes love feet, so you should avoid exposing them at all costs. The dirtier they are, the more the mosquitoes want to bite them! Leave the sandals at home when the sun starts to go down. Swap them for sneakers, and you’ll be less susceptible to bites.
Avoid Perfumes
Mosquitoes are attracted to floral perfume, cologne, and lotions. So if you’re prone to being bit or think you’ll be outside for a while, save the application for another time.
Shower
This may sound like a silly suggestion, but in the summer, it’s easy to delay the shower until right before bed. But if you’re going outside, you might want to get clean first. Why? Because mosquitoes love sweat. (It’s something about the lactic acid in our bodies that’s released when we perspire.)
Wear Sport Synthetic Clothing
Clothes made of synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and rayon are tightly woven and help keep mosquitoes away. In a similar vein, avoid cotton and linen; they do little to guarantee your protection.
Limit Wet Areas in the Backyard
If you have standing water in your yard, mosquitoes will stick around. It’s a breeding ground for them. Our tip? Drain any standing water before mosquito season, including birdbaths, flowerpots, water buckets, garbage cans, and kiddie pools. It’s also a good idea to spray your garbage cans regularly with insecticide.