How to Control Mosquitoes

Close up of a mosquito on a screen.

Prevent Mosquito Bites

  • Wear light colored clothing with long sleeves and pants
  • Repair tears in window screens
  • Limit time outdoors at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
  • Do not wear perfume outdoors
  • Insect repellants containing DEET are effective at reducing bites from mosquitoes (Carefully read and follow all directions on the label before use.)
  • Do not use DEET on infants under two years of age, pregnant women, or children's bedding or clothing

Reduce Mosquito Breeding Grounds

  • Properly dispose of old tires
  • Dispose of tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots, and other water-holding containers
  • Make sure roof gutters drain properly
  • Change water in birdbaths, pet bowls, and wading pools at least twice a week
  • Turn over plastic wading pools, buckets, etc.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools
  • Drain water from pool covers

Further Study: