8 Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away from Your Backyard Party
Good weather and warm summer nights brings only one downside: the pests. Nothing can ruin a patio party like the nagging buzz of mosquitoes. If you plan on entertaining outdoors this summer, fear not. We went on bug patrol and came up with a list of easy ways to keep pesky mosquitoes from ruining your good time.
1. Citronella Candle Set
These chic candles are tougher than they look. They have a 50 hour burning time, plenty to protect your outdoor dinner parties all summer long. (4 for $30 at amazon.com)
2. Mosquito Dunks
While mosquito dunks don’t actually repel mosquitoes, they can prevent them from invading your backyard to begin with. Place them in standing water like birdbaths and gutters (aka the insect’s favorite hangouts) to kill larvae for at least 30 days ($13 for 6; amazon.com).
3. OFF! Clip-On Mosquito Repellent
The battery-operated fan emits mosquito repellant, providing up to 12 hours of protection. It’ll even keep you cool on those sticky summer nights ($5; amazon.com).
4. Badger Anti-Bug Balm
Badger’s all-natural balm protects skin from annoying pests, thanks to its blend of organic citronella, cedar, and lemon grass essential oils. It’s completely free of DEET and other toxic ingredients, making it safe for the little ones to use ($7 at amazon.com).
5. Citronella Torches
Those tiki torches can be more than just summer outdoor decor. When paired with citronella fuel, this one deters mosquitoes while also setting a festive mood. Get a few decorative torches for the table as well as the edges of your patio.
TIKI Brand Citronella Scented Torch Fuel, $19 at amazon.com
TIKI 6-Inch Molded Glass Table Torch, Red, Green & Blue (Set of 3), $16 at amazon.com
TIKI Brand 57-Inch Luau Bamboo Torches, 4 Pack, $19 at amazon.com
6. Burt’s Bees Herbal Insect Repellant
No outdoor bash would be complete without a trusty bug spray. We like Burt’s Bee herbal version, which boasts rosemary, lemongrass and citronella oils and a light, refreshing scent ($15 at amazon.com).
7. Off! Mosquito Lamp
Perfect for any outdoor gathering, this candle and diffuser combo will keep your party mosquito-free for up to six hours. Simply light the candle to release the repellant from the diffuser ($10 at amazon.com).
8. Cutter All Family Mosquito Wipes
Offer your guest bug wipes to ward off airborne attackers (trust us, they’ll appreciate it). These are gentle on the skin and don’t include any stinky chemicals ($6 per pack at amazon.com).
This piece originally appeared on InStyle.com