It is hard to imagine a South African summer without mosquitos. They just seem to be everywhere and sneak up on us whether we are indoors relaxing in front of our TV, or outdoors enjoying a braai or get-together with friends.
For as long as there have been mosquitos, there have been people trying to find ways of keeping them at bay. In fact, there are so many remedies and innovative solutions around that it can be difficult to get ones mind around them all. And somehow, it seems like the mozzies find a way through the cracks in any case.
What can you do about it and what works best? Here is an overview of some of the lesser known alternative methods of keeping mosquitos away:
Citronella
Most of us know that mosquitos don’t like citronella. Burning citronella oils can definitely help, but if the citronella smoke does not permeate the entire area where you are, then it is not effective. So, why not try planting a citronella plant? Strategically positioned citronella plants can make a difference and are not as cumbersome as burning the oils.
Perfumes and Deodorants
Mosquitos are attracted to scents, so your perfume or deodorant can well attract them. During mosquito season it would be a good idea to avoid the use of these scents when outside. Yes, this may also keep some of your friends away…
Soap water
If you are outside and want to enjoy a meal without being pestered by mosquitos, try placing a bowl of soapy water nearby. The water will attract the mosquitos and the soapy bubbles will trap them.
Cloves
An old trick to repel mosquitos is to stick cloves into a citrus fruit, like an orange, lemon or grapefruit and then hang it at the doors or windows of your home. The scent keeps mosquitos away and has the great side effect of giving your home a pleasant odour at the same time.
Garlic
Mosquitos don’t like garlic, so consider increasing your intake of garlic. Garlic has many other great benefits in improving your health, but may also keep other people at bay.
Sun Sleeves
Our favourite way of repelling mosquitos is to use our Sun Sleeve product. Yes, this product is developed to keep the harmful rays of the sun away from our bodies, but has the wonderful additional benefit that it protects against mosquitos at the same time. Sun Sleeves can be worn on your arms but can just as easily be slipped over your exposed legs and ankles for those sneaky bugs that like to strike under the table. Sun Sleeves have the additional advantage that you can take them with you where ever you go and be protected at a moment’s notice.
We would like to encourage you to explore the alternatives that are available. If you are not sure how to go about this or would like some guidance with regards to your unique circumstances, please contact us and we’ll be happy to share some more ideas with you.