How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes In Summer

Mosquitoes cause itching and swelling and can spread disease. The options divide into two groups: chemical and physical.

Chemical Options — Electric Vaporisers

Electric mosquito mats work by drawing pyrethrum-type actives into the mat, which evaporate once heated. A mat generally lasts 6 to 8 hours. Liquid vaporisers use a wick to heat and release the active continuously and are the most convenient format — one bottle runs for around 30 days, with no daily mat change.

Mosquito Coils

Once lit, the pyrethrin in the coil evaporates with the smoke and disperses through the air, affecting the mosquito's nervous system. Coils work best outdoors — around the house, at the doorway, or anywhere well ventilated. Lighting the coil before dark in the evening gives the best result.

Sprays

The main active in household aerosols is prallethrin. Spraying under stairwells and around sinks, gutters, toilets, cabinets and table legs is effective. Very little product is needed; using more wastes it and affects the environment. Timing, location and dose are what matter.

Repellent Liquids And Sprays

Applied repellents can prevent almost all bites for 6 to 8 hours. They act on the mosquito's sensory and chemical receptors so the insect does not settle. Repellent toilet water uses bionic repellent materials that mask the cues mosquitoes use, giving around 5 hours of protection, and some formulations include herbal ingredients with a cooling effect.

Physical Options

A mosquito net keeps mosquitoes out, blocks draughts, catches falling dust and filters the air. An electric swatter forms a charged grid across the mesh, and contact passes current through the insect. A mosquito lamp uses the insect's attraction to specific light wavelengths to draw it to the unit, where it is held on a sticky surface or an electric grid.