Buzz Off! How to Keep Mozzies Away Without the Spray

Don't let those annoying critters ruin your time outdoors – here's how to deter them without reaching for the spray

Georgia Madden 22 December 2019

Senior writer, Houzz Australia

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Nothing takes the fun out of your alfresco get-together faster than the arrival of an army of mosquitoes. But chemical-based sprays, creams and roll-ons aren’t the only way to send them packing. Here, three experts reveal other effective options to consider.

Dulux Paint

Emma Blomfield, interior stylist, says:
Our gorgeous weather allows us to enjoy our backyards and entertaining spaces for most of the year; whether it’s a backyard barbecue with friends and family, lounging by the pool or flexing our green thumbs in the garden.

Emma Blomfield

But if you are unfortunate enough to attract mozzies while sitting down to an outdoor meal with friends, the time can be fraught with irritation (not to mention itchy bites). Fortunately, there are several ways you can keep mozzies at bay that don’t rely on unpleasant aerosol sprays or roll-ons.

Looking to jazz up your alfresco area? Find a local landscape architect or designer on Houzz to make it happen

Luci.D Interiors

Daniel Jaegers, product manager for insect control at Mayo Hardware, says:
Mosquitoes and outdoor insects are particularly annoying when you’re entertaining friends and family as they can leave everyone feeling uncomfortable and irritated. Without being properly prepared, activities such as barbecuing, reading a book while lazing in a hammock or doing a spot of gardening will be frustrating rather than relaxing.

Fasham

The mosquito season starts in spring and peaks in the hotter, summer months between December and February. The season tails off in autumn.

Mosquitoes like tall grass and weeds, which is why it’s a good idea to weed regularly and keep your lawn trimmed.

They are most common in warmer conditions where wet weather creates small ponds or puddles – stagnant, fresh water is their perfect breeding environment.

Shabby-Chic Style Garden Shabby-chic Style Garden

Blomfield says:
Citronella candles or incense coils are good mozzie deterrents for outside tables.

Jaegers says:
Citronella oil is a naturally occurring repellent derived from citronella grass. It works by blocking mosquitoes’ scent receptors and masking the carbon dioxide, body temperature and odour that attracts them to people.

Unlike the potent chemical smells we associate with traditional roll-on and aerosol repellents, citronella has a citrus-like aroma and is non-toxic.

Hidden Gem Creative

Or, consider an electronic mosquito barrier. These are one of the most effective solutions for large areas – some give you an impressive 21-square-metre protection zone that lasts up to 12 hours. Or try a mosquito trapper, which attracts the pests by releasing CO2 before zapping them – some have a whopping 23-metre radius.

5 Ways to Give Mosquitoes the Flick – But Nicely

Cyclone

Most outdoor activities such as exercising, gardening or even socialising, require a product that can move with you. If you’re going to be active outdoors in mosquito season, consider popping on a wearable mosquito-repellent wristband infused with citronella.

Freedom Retractable Screens of Australia

If you enjoy entertaining inside but like to be able to open up the doors to your deck or garden, a flyscreen is a smart investment. Flyscreens are brilliant for maintaining airflow while keeping flying and crawling bugs outside.

To boost protection, consider adding an indoor mosquito zapper, which you can mount on an interior wall or place on a tabletop.

Image by Cyclone

Andrew Weeks, business development manager at Cyclone, says:
There are many types of insect screens on offer. You can narrow your search for the right one by focusing on your needs. For example, if easy installation, excellent airflow and visibility are important to you, then you may decide to choose fibreglass insect screening, which is a great all-purpose option.

However, if pet damage is a concern, consider a fly screen made from long-lasting, extra-strength polyester that resists damage from claws.

If small insects such as sandflies and mosquitoes are prevalent around your home, you will want to opt for a style with very small apertures to keep out the tiniest of insects.

Aside from windows and doors, it’s worth installing insect screening over vents and other openings around the home in order to provide full insect protection.

Brio USA

There are several signs of quality to look for in insect screens. The weaving should be consistent with straight, evenly placed strands. It should be made from a premium-quality fabric or metallic wire to ensure it’s durable and will perform for years. The wires should be fine enough to allow for a view through the screen – marine-grade stainless steel and aluminium are ideal. Choosing a style in a charcoal colourway will help minimise the sun’s glare.

Luci.D Interiors

Your turn
How do you keep pesky mozzies at bay? Tell us in the Comments below, save your favourite images, and like or save this story. Join the conversation.

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