It may be August and nearing the end of summer here in New York, but that doesn’t mean the mosquitoes have stopped being a pest. These annoying insects are out in full force, stronger than ever. And while you are enjoying relaxing in your backyard, hiking, or walking one of our picturesque trails, the females are still seeking out their next victim for attack.
Do you ever feel like you are the one who always gets bit, no matter who else is around? Like humans, mosquitoes like and dislike certain scents, and once you know what those scents are, you can either use them to attract mosquitoes or prevent them. Here are several tips for ensuring you are not the scent they prefer.
Avoid Scented Body Products
First and foremost, when hanging outside, be conscious of the types of products you use. Mosquitoes are attracted to certain fragrances in perfumes, colognes, lotions, soaps, and shampoos. Try to steer clear of anything that leaves a lingering scent and prevent these buggers from tracking you down.
Working Up a Sweat
Like to Exercise outside? You may want to spray on the extra repellent. When your heart rate increases, your body works up a sweat which releases more carbon dioxide and lactic acid, which is attractive to mosquitoes. Their highly sensitive sensors make them better able to target warm-blooded animals.
Alcohol Attracts Mosquitoes
Summer is a time for celebrating. Between graduation parties, weddings, concerts, and festivals, there’s nothing wrong with having a few beers or glasses of your favorite wine. Unfortunately, this is not good news for those of us already prone to mosquitoes. According to a study in the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, alcohol can increase your chance of being a target for mosquitoes. This is because alcohol increases the levels of ethanol in your sweat and increases your body temperature. So, the next time you decide to let loose, maybe spray on the mosquito repellent first.
Utilize Fragrances Mosquitoes Hate to Your Advantage
Despite being attracted to our body sweat, and alcohol, there are many different scents mosquitoes do not like. Using a variety of essential oils that include these different scents can help keep those blood-suckers away. Play around with a few and see what works best for you. A few fragrances mosquitoes find repulsive include:
- Lemon Balm
- Lemongrass
- Neem
- Marigold
- Rosemary
- Lavender
- Basil
- Catnip
- Peppermint
- Citronella
Do It Yourself Repellent Spray
Vinegar is not a scent many of us find attractive, including mosquitoes. But, if you can handle the smell, you can make yourself unattractive to these flying pests by adding a mixture of equal parts white vinegar, citronella, and water to a spray bottle. Spray yourself with it as it were a store-bought mosquito repellent, and there you go, you have your own homemade mosquito spray. Vinegar also mixes well with other ingredients, so you can use it with other essential oils at your leisure.
Avoid Dark Colors
When planning to spend time outdoors in New York, wear lighter colors. This is because mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. Dark clothing helps you retain body heat which helps you sweat. And sweat increases the lactic acid, carbon dioxide, and other variables on your body that make you more attractive to mosquitoes. Try wearing loose clothing as well because mosquitoes are notorious for biting through the fabric.
Use an Effective Store-Bought Repellent
Store-bought repellents work by blocking your natural scents utilizing scents mosquitoes can’t stand. The most effective mosquito repelling products recommended by the Center for Disease Control are repellents that contain DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and picaridin. So when you purchase your mosquito repellent, be sure to buy one that includes one of these ingredients.
Take Back Your New York Property With Mosquito Control Services by Griffin Organics
We may not be able to control mosquitoes everywhere you go, but with these helpful tips and our mosquito control service, you will be on your way to mosquito-free living. Griffin Organics offers a mosquito and tick service that will both prevent and eliminate these bothersome creatures from ruining your backyard fun. We also provide organic mosquito control for anyone worried about any harmful effects pesticides have on the environment.
We Offer Lawn Care Services in Southeast New York
Whether your lawn needs patching up or a complete redo, the experts at Griffin Organics are here to help. We service these cities and more!
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