Know the Facts: Mosquito Season Is in Full Swing — Here’s How to Stay Protected

With mosquito-borne viruses like Zika and West Nile making headlines, it’s no surprise that mosquito control advice is spreading fast, along with a flood of homemade remedies claiming to stop these pests in their tracks. But when it comes to protecting yourself and your family, it’s important to separate fact from fiction.

Don’t Fall for Mosquito Myths

Despite what you might hear or read, common homemade solutions—like eating garlic, using ultrasonic gadgets, wearing citronella wristbands, or placing fabric softener sheets in your pockets—are not proven ways to control mosquitoes. These methods simply don’t work as advertised and can waste your valuable time and money.

Mosquito control is a complex science backed by thousands of experts worldwide who dedicate their careers to understanding and managing these pests. Millions of dollars are invested annually to develop safer and more effective methods, helping to reduce the impact of mosquito-borne diseases globally.

For reliable, science-based information about mosquito prevention, visit the CDC’s mosquito prevention page and learn about EPA-approved insect repellents that protect you and your loved ones.

What You Can Do Now to Reduce Mosquitoes Around Your Home

Even though mosquitoes are active, there’s still plenty you can do to keep them under control:

• Remove standing water immediately. Empty containers like buckets, plant saucers, toys, and birdbaths weekly to interrupt mosquito breeding cycles.
• Maintain water features. Make sure pools, spas, and ponds are clean and circulating properly. Adding natural larvicides like Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) helps eliminate larvae safely.
• Keep your yard tidy. Trim back thick shrubs and mow grass regularly to reduce shady resting spots for adult mosquitoes.
• Use mosquito-eating fish. If you have ornamental ponds or fountains, consider stocking them with mosquito fish to naturally reduce larvae.
• Apply natural sprays. Treat shrubs and vegetation monthly with products containing pyrethrins, neem oil, or BT.
• Fix screens and close doors/windows promptly. Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
• Adjust outdoor lighting. Use yellow bulbs and position lights away from doorways to minimize attraction.
• Use citronella candles or torches around outdoor seating areas—but remember they only repel, not kill, and are less effective in windy conditions.

Protect Yourself When You’re Outside

Mosquitoes bite most at dawn and dusk. When outdoors, wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and apply EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET or other effective ingredients.

When to Call the Professionals

If mosquitoes continue to be a problem around your home despite your efforts, contact the pest control professionals at Corky’s. Our expert team provides tailored mosquito control services to protect your family, pets, and property. Call us or fill out our contact form today to schedule an inspection and treatment — don’t let mosquitoes spoil your summer!