HOW TO GET RID OF MOSQUITOES

Mosquitoes are annoying and can strike fear into the hearts of many as they are potential carriers of mosquito-borne diseases in some tropical areas. If you live in an area with a high mosquito population, you need to ensure that you have preventative measures in place day and night. In this article, we’ll cover how to get rid of mosquitoes indoors and around your home to help keep those little nippers at bay.

Why do mosquitoes bite?

Fun fact! While both male and female mosquitoes feed on nectar, the ones that bite humans and other animals are female mozzies. Female mosquitoes bite because they need blood to produce their eggs - the eggs require protein found in human and animal blood to allow them to develop properly. By understanding how to get rid of mozzies you’ll enjoy fewer bites and a more comfortable environment.

Are mosquitoes attracted to certain people?

Have you ever wondered why mosquitoes bite some people more than others? It might be due to your blood type. Research indicates that mosquitoes are about twice as likely to bite people with type O blood compared to those with type A. They’re also drawn to the carbon dioxide we exhale, along with certain body odours and sweat. Studies also show mosquitoes are attracted to people drinking beer. So if you’re enjoying a beer outside, you might see some mosquitoes around you! 

What are the signs of a mosquito infestation?

If you’re wondering how to get rid of mosquitoes, chances are you have mosquitoes inside your home. Some mosquito species are most active at night, while other species are most active during the day. Seeing them more or less at a certain time can indicate a higher presence of a certain species. Frequent bites or itchy, swollen areas on your skin are clear signs that you need to address the issue. Since mosquitoes can lay hundreds of eggs at a time, it’s important to act quickly. Ignoring the problem could lead to a rapid increase in their numbers, making it even more challenging to control the infestation.

How to get rid of mosquitoes inside your home

Here’s how you can create a mosquito-free environment inside your home and enjoy your space without the nuisance of these pests.

1. Install screens on entrance points and ensure there are no gaps in your home allowing them to enter

Install flyscreens on all entry points, including windows, doors, vents and chimneys. Opt for a mesh with a density of 12 x 12 per 25mm (1.2mm) or finer for added protection against smaller pests like sandflies. Additionally, adding screens to verandahs and other outdoor spaces can help extend your mosquito-free zone.
Also check for damage on existing screens and close any gaps you might see. Mosquitos may even travel underneath your front door!

2. Use mosquito nets

If mosquitoes are still buzzing around you at night, consider adding a mosquito net over your bed or daybeds for extra defence. 

3. Position fans inside and on verandahs

Mosquitoes struggle with strong winds and aren’t the best flyers. To keep mozzies away, installing fans in your entertainment areas - both indoors and on your verandah - can help keep them at bay. 

4. Use a chemical spray

For a quick way to get rid of mosquitoes inside your home, try Mortein solutions for mosquitoes, which effectively address both elimination and prevention.

Want to know how to kill mosquitoes both indoors and outdoors using the same product? The Mortein NaturGard Automatic Control System Multi-Insect Spray provides convenient, all-day protection. Just set it and forget it. 

5. Use a mosquito plug-in repellent 

Keep yourself protected by using a mosquito plug-in repellent, nets, window screens and having air conditioning on. Mosquitoes prefer areas with low airflow. This will help you spend a night without the annoyance of mosquitoes.

How to get rid of mozzies around your home

If you’re finding mosquitoes inside your home, they are likely breeding nearby outside. By following these guidelines, you'll decrease the mosquito population and keep them from coming back.

Eliminate stagnant water

To understand how to remove mosquitos effectively, clear out any stagnant water in your yard and garden, as it’s a prime spot for them to breed.

Here’s how you can eliminate stagnant water:

• Clear blocked gutters.
• Tip out water in empty cans, plant pots and any containers that hold water.  
• Remove any rubbish, such as plastic bags, that may hold water. 
• Keep septic tank openings covered and securely screened.
• Drain stagnant pools or puddles.
• Make sure swimming pools are properly cleaned and chlorinated.

Use a mosquito repellent spray with DEET or Picaridin 

To protect yourself from mosquito bites, apply insect repellent when outdoors, choosing one with DEET or Picaridin for best results. You have plenty of choice from roll on formats, to on-skin spray and fabric spray which allows you to protect your entire body, while only applying on your clothes.

Here is a quick summary of how to get rid of mosquitoes

• Install screens on entrance points and use mosquito nets while sleeping.
• Position fans inside and outside to make it harder for mosquitoes to fly.
• Use a flying insect killer.
• Apply a mosquito repellent.
• Clear and drain stagnant water from around your home.

Sources

• Better Health Channel. (Reviewed on: 08 February 2023). Mosquitoes: Protect your home checklist. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/mosquitoes-protect-your-home-checklist
• NSW Health. (Last updated: 15 December 2023). Mosquitoes. https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/mosquito.aspx 
• SA Health, Government of South Australia. (Last updated: 01 November 2023). Cover up, repel, eliminate from mosquitoes. https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/public+content/sa+health+internet/healthy+living/protecting+your+health/yourself/fight+the+bite/cover+up%2C+repel%2C+eliminate+from+mosquitos 
• Department of Health, Australian Government. (July 2022). EnHealth guidance: Arthropod pests of public health significance in Australia. https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2022/07/enhealth-guidance-arthropod-pests-of-public-health-significance-in-australia.pdf