Let’s face it, mosquitoes can be a real pain in the neck, especially in our homes during those lovely warmer months. But here’s some great news! Not only can you keep them at bay naturally, you’ll also be doing your part in preventing serious diseases like chikungunya, dengue fever and Zika virus. Here are three simple tips that you can start using today!
1. Use repellent plants
Why is this effective? Some plants are naturally repellent to mosquitoes. By strategically placing them around your home, you can create a natural barrier against these pests.
Recommended plants:
- Citronella: Known as the “mosquito plant”, citronella gives off an odor that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Plant it in pots near doors and windows.
- Lavender: In addition to its pleasant scent, lavender repels mosquitoes. Place pots of lavender on windowsills or in your garden.
- Basil: Not only is basil an excellent culinary herb, it also repels mosquitoes. You can grow it in your kitchen or near the entrances to your home.
2. Use repellent plants
Why is this effective? Some plants are naturally repellent to mosquitoes. By strategically placing them around your home, you can create a natural barrier against these pests.
Recommended plants:
- Citronella: Known as the “mosquito plant”, citronella gives off an odor that mosquitoes find unpleasant. Plant it in pots near doors and windows.
- Lavender: In addition to its pleasant scent, lavender repels mosquitoes. Place pots of lavender on windowsills or in your garden.
- Basil: Not only is basil an excellent culinary herb, it also repels mosquitoes. You can grow it in your kitchen or near the entrances to your home.
2. Making vinegar traps
Why is it effective? Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of vinegar. By using this attraction to your advantage, you can create traps that capture them without using harmful chemicals.
How to do it:
- Materials required: A shallow dish, apple cider vinegar, sugar and washing-up liquid.
- Method:
- Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in the dish.
- Add a few tablespoons of sugar to attract mosquitoes.
- Add a few drops of washing-up liquid to break the surface tension of the water, preventing mosquitoes from escaping.
- Place the trap in areas where you often see mosquitoes, such as near windows and doors.
- Change the solution every 2-3 days to maintain the trap’s effectiveness.
3. Prepare an essential oil spray
Why is it effective? Essential oils such as citronella, lemon eucalyptus and neem are known for their mosquito repellent properties. By preparing a homemade spray, you can protect your home and your skin the natural way.
How to make:
- Ingredients: Water, lemongrass essential oil, lemon eucalyptus essential oil, neem oil, and a few drops of liquid soap.
- Method:
- In a spray bottle, mix 100 ml water with 10 drops lemongrass essential oil, 10 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil and 5 ml neem oil.
- Add a few drops of liquid soap to help disperse the oils.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray this natural repellent in areas where mosquitoes are present, as well as on curtains and mosquito nets.
- You can also apply this spray to your skin, avoiding contact with eyes and mouth.
By using these three natural tricks – repellent plants, vinegar traps and essential oil sprays – you can effectively protect your home against mosquitoes, including the tiger mosquito. These methods are not only environmentally friendly, but also safe for your family. Adopt them now for a mosquito-free home.
