Simple, natural and safe: Keep mosquitoes away this monsoon

Even after trying various solutions, mosquito troubles tend to persist--especially during the monsoon months. Stagnant water in flower pots, discarded containers, coconut shells, and drains offers ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. To effectively reduce their presence and avoid bites, a combination of cleanliness and natural remedies can go a long way.

Keep your surroundings clean

Inspect for stagnant water regularly in and around the house, especially in pots, trays, and unused containers. Even small collections of water can become breeding grounds.

Keep the house and surroundings clean to prevent mosquito breeding.

Natural remedies to prevent breeding

Pour a small amount of kerosene into stagnant water in drains or puddles near the house. It helps kill mosquito larvae.

Indoor mosquito repellents

• Occasionally burn frankincense (kunthirikkam) indoors. The smoke helps to repel mosquitoes to a certain extent.
• Pierce 3-4 cloves into a lemon and place it in rooms. This helps to reduce the presence of mosquitoes. Oranges can also be used instead of lemons for a pleasant aroma.
• Mix neem oil with water and store it in a spray bottle. Spray it throughout the house to prevent mosquitoes.
• Dilute lavender or eucalyptus oil in water and spray it around the house. These essential oils act as natural repellents and this will also spread a calming fragrance.
• Place a bowl with a few pieces of camphor (karpoor) in different rooms. Mosquitoes are repelled by the strong scent. If the problem is severe, burn a few pieces of camphor for a few minutes in a safe place. This will help drive mosquitoes away.

Other natural spray options

• Boil a few garlic cloves in water. Let it cool and pour it into a spray bottle. Spraying this mixture indoors helps repel mosquitoes.
• Mix lavender oil with coconut or almond oil and apply it on your skin. This works as a natural repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
• Place a small bowl of coffee grounds inside your home. The smell helps deter mosquitoes.

Physical barriers

Install mesh screens on windows, air vents, and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.

Close off any openings that mosquitoes might enter the house through.