Do you also wonder why the mosquitoes appear the minute it starts raining? Rainy seasons are refreshing and are a beautiful time that everyone enjoys. But it often brings an uninvited guest: the mosquitoes.
These tiny insects can cause diseases like malaria, dengue, and Zika. They are increasing every year.
In 2024, the dengue cases were 32,091, and the number of malaria cases was 73,959 in India, according to National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) data till July.
That is why it is essential to get rid of them, but how can you do it? This article will walk you through the effective ways to prevent mosquitoes during the rainy season.
Why are Mosquitoes More Active During the Rainy Season?
Mosquitoes usually appear during the rainy season, but why do they become active during this time? Here are a few reasons for their rapid growth throughout the season.
1) Ideal Breeding Ground
Rain is the ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, especially in areas with stagnant water.
Puddles, clogged drains, and other stagnant water bodies occur during the rainy season, making them the best home for mosquitoes.
It also leads to their surge in population, and then they cause various diseases like dengue, malaria, etc.
2) Increased Humidity
Another reason why mosquitoes are more active during the rainy season is the humid conditions.
Places with high humidity levels are the perfect environment for mosquitoes to breed. They stay, survive, and lay eggs because of the favourable conditions.
Effective Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes
They become active during the rainy season and cause various diseases, but don’t worry because we have ways that can help eliminate mosquitoes effectively.
- Use of Mosquito Repellents
A quick and easy way to keep mosquitoes away is by applying mosquito repellents. Choose those repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin, or Lemon Eucalyptus to ensure maximum protection. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to deter mosquitoes.
- Install Mosquito Nets and Screens
Consider installing fine mesh screens on windows and doors and net around beds. They help block these mosquitoes from entering your home.
- Eliminate Stagnant Water
Don’t let the stagnant water get collected in buckets, flower pots, or clogged drains. It helps get rid of these mosquitoes.
- Natural Remedies
You can opt for essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender if you prefer natural remedies. They smell great to us but are the best repellent for mosquitoes.
- Home Remedies
You can use camphor or garlic as a home remedy to repel mosquitoes. Place them around your home to keep them away.
Chemical VS Natural Mosquitoes Repellents
Whether chemical or natural repellents, you can choose any of them based on your preferences. They are the best option, so let’s explore their pros and cons.
Chemical Repellents
Pros
- Chemical repellents are highly effective and help repel mosquitoes for extended periods.
- They contain active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or other synthetic compounds that help keep the mosquitoes away.
Cons
- They sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
- They can be harmful to the environment if not used properly.
- They are not ideal for young children or pregnant women.
Natural Repellents
Pros
- Citronella, lemongrass, and neem oil are great natural alternatives.
- They are safer for the environment and human health.
Cons
- They don’t last longer than chemicals but are safe for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
- You may need to reapply them frequently.
How to Protect Your Home From Mosquitoes?
- You can protect your home from mosquitoes using the below options.
- The first way is to keep your windows and doors closed, especially at dawn and dusk. It is the time when they are most active.
- Ensure your home’s drainage system is functioning properly to avoid stagnant water where mosquitoes often breed.
- Use air conditioning and fans to reduce humidity, which can help prevent mosquitoes.
- Regular cleaning is another option to protect your home. That is why keep your clean and clutter-free. Sweeping and mopping can help remove mosquito eggs that have entered your home.
Using Plants to Repel Mosquitoes
You can also use plants to keep mosquitoes away from your home. Here are some popular options.
- You grow various plants in your home. So, adding marigolds, basil, or lavender to your garden or balcony can be an excellent option.
- You can also include citronella, lemongrass, and catnip. These plants help deter mosquitoes and make your home mosquito-free.
How to Care for Mosquito-Repellent Plants?
Place these plants in areas where mosquitoes are most likely to enter your house, like near windows and doorways. Ensure to give them plenty of water and sunlight because it is the basic requirement for every plant. If you have a domestic helper, you can ask her to water them regularly.
Mosquitoes Prevention for Families for Young Children
Mosquitoes are often after young children and require protection from them due to their delicate immune systems.
- You can prevent mosquitoes by choosing DEET-free mosquito repellents. They are safe for sensitive skin and free of harsh chemicals, making them the perfect choice for kids. However, use them after consulting your pediatrician.
- Use mosquito nets to cover the cribs, play areas, or swings and avoid using chemical sprays near their sleeping areas. Take the help of your full-time maid to cover them with the net.
- Dress them in light-coloured clothes with full sleeves and pants.
- If you prefer natural repellents, look for those with plant-based ingredients.
Outdoor Mosquito Control
You can control the outdoor mosquitoes by setting up traps for them. Select traps that use light or carbon dioxide to attract them.
They can help reduce the population in your yard. Also, use eco-friendly options instead of insecticide sprays to prevent harming beneficial insects or plants.
Seasonal Cleaning Tips to Prevent Mosquitoes
Here are some seasonal cleaning tips to prevent mosquitoes and enjoy the rainy season without worrying about them.
- Ensure the trash is properly sealed and disposed of because they can lay eggs in the smallest amount of standing water.
- Regularly clean the drains and gutters to prevent stagnant water and mosquito breeding.
- Clean your yard to remove leaves, twigs, or other debris, as they provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
- Inspect regularly for standing water, such as bird baths, rain barrels, or clogged gutters.
Conclusion
Mosquitoes are tiny but have a great impact during the rainy season. Rain and humidity are the ideal environment for the mosquitoes to breed. That is why they become more active during the season, leading to many mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.
You can get rid of them by taking preventive measures, using repellents, and ensuring cleanliness. From installing mosquito nets to using natural remedies, consider using these effective ways to deter mosquitoes.
Chemical and natural repellents have their own pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your preferences.
Eliminating stagnant water, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito repellent can help create a less hospitable environment for mosquitoes.
So, enjoy a more comfortable and itchy-free rainy season. Consider hiring professional cleaning or maid services in Noida and Delhi to ensure regular cleanliness and eliminate the breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1 How can I prevent mosquitoes naturally?
Ans You can prevent mosquitoes naturally using natural repellents like citronella oil and lavender.
Q2 Are mosquitoes more active during the day or night?
Ans Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, but some are also active during the day.
Q3 What is the best plant to repel mosquitoes?
Ans The best plants to repel mosquitoes are citronella, lavender, and marigolds.
Q4 How often should I clean my yard to prevent mosquitoes?
Ans You should clean your yard weekly to ensure there are no stagnant water sources where mosquitoes can breed.
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