A warm evening on your patio with friends and family and some good food – is there anything more inviting? Unfortunately, your current patio setup might be attracting unwanted guests: mosquitoes!
As you kick back and relax, the last thing you want to deal with is defending yourself against a swarm of relentless, biting bugs. But that’s exactly what happens. Unbeknownst to you, your cozy patio might be acting as a beacon for these problematic pests.
Mosquitoes are much more than just a nuisance. Despite their small size, these irksome invaders pose a considerable health risk due to their role in carrying and transmitting diseases like West Nile virus and, while rare in the US, even malaria1. But fear not, fellow patio enthusiasts, because we’ve put together the ultimate Best Bee Brothers guide to help you reclaim your patio paradise and keep those bloodthirsty buzzers at bay.
Signs of Mosquito Infestation on Your Patio
Mosquitoes have a knack for homing in on irresistible targets – like your patio. With pools of standing water, lush vegetation and the alluring scent of humans, a patio offers mosquitoes a rich opportunity for an evening out.
That harmless water-filled flowerpot or the clogged rain gutter you’ve been meaning to clear out? Both are definitely going to increase your chances of repeated mosquito encounters. That’s because female mosquitoes need a pool of still, shallow water to lay their eggs – and they’re not picky either! A bucket, a flowerpot, heck, even a small puddle after a thunderstorm can suffice. Some mosquitoes can lay hundreds of eggs in just a quarter inch of water!2
But you get the idea…water plus warmth equals a night of swatting and slapping at mosquitoes. If you don’t want to surrender the rights of your outdoor space, removing any pools of standing water should be your very first move. If you’re in a hurry, here are 5 easy steps to ensure a mosquito-free yard. However, to truly enjoy your outdoor space, it’s essential to attack the mosquito situation on multiple fronts. Start with some preventive measures.
Types of Patio Mosquito Repellents
When it comes to mosquito control and transforming your patio into a relaxation haven, Best Bee Brothers offers a range of innovative solutions, from versatile body mist to bracelets made with plant-based, natural active ingredients = that create an invisible shield around you and your loved ones. But before we go too deep into all of the various options you might use to protect your home, let’s take a peek at some of the most common ingredients found in mosquito-related products.
DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide)
DEET is a powerful synthetic repellent that has been a staple in the fight against mosquitoes for decades.3 It disrupts mosquitoes’ sensory systems, making you unattractive to them. While highly effective, DEET should be used in moderation and according to product instructions. At Bee Brothers, we’re proud to say that we never use DEET to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Pyrethroids
Pyrethroids are synthetic chemicals modeled after natural pyrethrins, which are found in chrysanthemum flowers.4 These compounds target mosquitoes’ nervous systems, resulting in paralysis and death of the insects. Pyrethroids are commonly used in mosquito-repellent sprays and coils, providing reliable protection.
Citronella Oil
Citronella oil, which is derived from lemongrass (not to be confused with the bushy plant often sold to keep mosquitoes at bay), is a renowned natural mosquito repellent, registered in the US since 1948.5 Its distinct aroma masks the scents that attract mosquitoes, effectively reducing their desire to feast on your blood.
Other Natural Plant Extracts
Our commitment to eco-friendly solutions led us to harness the power of natural plant extracts, such as oils of eucalyptus, peppermint and cedarwood.6 These botanical ingredients not only emit pleasant scents but also create a mosquito-repelling barrier.
Products to Help Reduce Swarming Mosquitoes
Now that we’ve explored some of the common players in the fight against mosquito invasions, let’s see what tools of the trade Best Bee Brothers can offer to help give you a competitive advantage.
Bug Zapper Racket
Ah, the classic bug zapper racket – an electrifying solution to your mosquito woes. Cathartic (and maybe a bit too satisfying), bug zapper rackets are a proven method to zap those mosquitoes right out of existence. Just flip the switch on, take aim, and start swatting! Who said you can’t have a little fun defending the castle?
Mist/Oil
For a more subtle approach, consider our mist. Made with a powerful combination of essential oils, our mosquito repellent body mist utilizes a proven insect-repelling cocktail of natural lemongrass, geranium, and peppermint essential oils to deter bothersome bugs. We don’t use DEET or parabens. The best part? It’s long lasting and has no synthetic fragrances!
Bracelet
If you’re the on-the-go type, then our bug-repellent bracelets are the option for you! These waterproof wearables contain an effective combination of essential oils, and each pack comes with 12 brightly colored, adjustable bands and 12 capsule refills, offering a total of over 8,400 hours of protection! These bracelets are also perfect for outdoor adventures beyond your patio – from hiking to camping to picnicking in the park.
Mosquito Zap Trap
Finally, for a truly passive approach to reclaiming your outdoor soirees, consider our innovative Mosquito Zap Trap, a cutting-edge addition to our mosquito repellent lineup. This device takes mosquito control to the next level by utilizing UV light to attract and eliminate these pesky insects. The Zap Trap lures mosquitoes in and, upon contact, delivers a swift and satisfying zap. Say goodbye to bothersome buzzing and itchy bites as this trap provides efficient mosquito reduction.
Natural Mosquito Repellent for Patios
Are you a plant lover with a naturally green thumb? Good news! You can enlist the help of nature to fend off those pesky mosquitoes too. Certain plants, like basil, lavender and sage, are natural mosquito repellents.
By incorporating these plants into your patio landscape, you can create an aromatic barrier that deters mosquitoes all while adding a little extra beauty to your outdoor oasis. For a comprehensive list, check out our post about plants that deter mosquitoes. Not only will this help to eliminate your summertime pest problem, you’ll also be contributing to a more eco-friendly environment. And some can do double duty in your kitchen as culinary herbs!
Other Ways to Repel Mosquitoes from Patios
While our repellent products are incredibly effective, try these tips to enhance mosquito control on your patio:
- Remove or empty any standing water sources, such as birdbaths, buckets or plant saucers.
- Trim overgrown vegetation to eliminate hiding spots for mosquitoes.
- Install bug screens or netting around your patio to create a physical barrier.
- Use fans strategically to disrupt mosquitoes’ flight patterns – they’re not fans (see what we did there?) of a windy environment.
To learn more about natural ways to repel mosquitoes, you can mosey on over to this page: How to Keep Mosquitoes Away Naturally. With these combined efforts, you’ll create an unwelcoming environment for mosquitoes and quickly reclaim your patio from unwanted intruders.
Complete Patio Protection from Mosquitoes
By now we hope you know that a mosquito-free patio is within your reach, and that Best Bee Brothers is here to help you achieve it. By choosing the right product for your needs, strategically placing repellent devices, incorporating plants as deterrents and implementing additional mosquito-repelling tactics, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a mosquito-free outdoor oasis. Goodbye, itchy bites, and hello, serene patio evenings.
Remember, the key is to tailor your approach to your unique patio setup and preferences. Whether you opt for the electrifying allure of bug zappers, the aromatic delights of some new landscape accents or the fashionable practicality of mosquito repelling bracelets, you can count on Best Bee Brothers to provide effective and eco-friendly solutions.
So, equip yourself with the knowledge you’ve gained from this guide, explore our range of mosquito repellent products, and take back your patio from those blood-seeking pests. Your outdoor sanctuary awaits – mosquito-free and ready for your enjoyment!
- “Locally Acquired Malaria Cases Identified in the United States,” June 26, 2023, Health Alert Network, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00494.asp.
- “Mosquito Prevention Resources,” Vector Control Program, San Diego County, accessed August 30, 2023, https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/deh/pests/wnv/prevention/chkresources.html.
- “DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide),” Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, accessed August 30, 2023, https://wwwn.cdc.gov/TSP/substances/ToxSubstance.aspx?toxid=201.
- “Pyrethroid Insecticides,” fact sheet, June 2007, Illinois Department of Public Health, http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/factsheets/pyrethroid.htm.
- C. Bond, K. Buhl and D. Stone, “Citronella Oil,” March 2003, National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University Extension Services, http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/citronellagen.html.
- Brian P. Baker, Jennifer A. Grant and Raksha Malakar-Kuenen, “ Cedarwood Oil Profile Active Ingredient Eligible for Minimum Risk Pesticide Use,” 2018, New York State Integrated Pest Management Program, https://hdl.handle.net/1813/56116.