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Summer is peak party season for flies, mozzies and other insects, as bug populations swell and they descend in droves into your garden, and ultimately infiltrate your home. But there’s plenty you can do to discourage critters from hanging around both outdoors and in, and protect yourself from itchy bites. Here are a few natural bug-free pest control defence strategies for keeping irritating flying insects at bay.
The best way to keep out an array of insects and creepy crawlies is to install window and door screens. You can get kits to make your own custom-sized frames for your home’s windows and doors and pair them with off-the-shelf rolls of flyscreen wire mesh. For the ultimate in protection, opt for Cyclone Miniweave Flyscreen, which keeps out super-tiny insects.
Adjustable flyscreen doors are designed to fit a range of different sizes, while existing screens in need of repair can be patched. Another screening solution for a peaceful night’s sleep – or alfresco siesta – is a mosquito net canopy, which can be used inside and out.
Whether relaxing in the garden or enjoying a barbie on the deck at dusk, take proactive measures to ensure you’re not a mozzie magnet. Wear tight-weave fabrics, long-sleeve shirts and long pants to help prevent you getting bitten.
Horticulturist and sustainability specialist Adam Woodhams (@adamhwoodhams) says personal bug sprays and D.I.Y. spritzers made with essential oils can also deter mosquitoes by acting as a natural insect repellent. “Lavender oil works best," he says. "You can dab essential oil on pulse points (neck, behind ears, inside wrists and behind knees) every hour or so, or make up a mix of 5 per cent oil with 95 per cent rubbing alcohol and put it in a spray bottle to apply to your skin.”
If you have large pesky insect populations, consider reducing the numbers with traps. Jordon McKeon from Gecko says bug-zapper lanterns and trappers use UV light to attract a diverse array of airborne insects and, depending on the device, have different mechanisms to eliminate or confine the bugs. As they operate continuously, they provide long-term protection against insects. “For best results, hang at a height of about 2.5 metres and place away from your entertainment area and competing light sources,” advises Jordon.
Another great option is the EnviroSafe fly trap, which lures flies away from the house. Ideal for hanging in the garden, the trap contains an effective, non-toxic bait that flies find irresistible.
To capture indoor flying pests like fruit flies, try a sleek off-the-shelf glue trap, or target specific areas near sinks, indoor and recycling bins, and fruit bowls with a Yates Home Pest indoor fruit fly trap, which uses a pesticide-free liquid lure.
“There are many plants considered as ‘insect repellent’ through the aromatics in their oils,” explains Adam. While certain repellent varieties need to be brushed against or bruised to release their oil, other types naturally release fragrance. “Those considered to have the best repelling properties include golden oregano, feverfew, various basils, lavenders, dogbane, lemongrass and other plant varieties with a strong lemon fragrance,” he adds.
Try growing pots of these on decks, windowsills and by front and back doors. The aroma from citronella and lemongrass candles, diffusers and incense sticks can also be effective and smell great, too.
Flies and insects often flock to food and waste, so banish their free buffet and, whenever possible, don’t leave uncovered food out. Clean up any food or drink spills as quickly as possible and consider storing food such as the fruit bowl in the fridge over the warmer months. Ensure the kitchen bin area is kept clean and food rubbish is properly sealed and disposed of in an enclosed bin, away from entertaining areas.
While we love the breeze generated by a fan during the hot months, flies and mozzies don’t, as it impacts their ability to fly. Interrupt their flight zone with floor or ceiling fans set at high speed and positioned to direct moving air downward.
“Mozzies are an important part of the planet's ecosystems because their larvae are food for a host of pond-dwelling creatures," explains Adam. "However, as they can breed in even small amounts of predator-free standing water, as little as one to two centimetres deep, minimising potential breeding spots around the house and garden can help prevent a population explosion.” He recommends filling the edges of saucers under plants, where water may gather, with small washed pebbles or fine gravel.
If you have a garden pond or outdoor water feature, add a pump to create circulation, and eliminate any spots where water may collect and stand – for example, items such as a forgotten bucket, pet water bowl or upturned play equipment. “Don’t overlook gutters and drains,” adds Adam. “If they get clogged with leaves and other debris, they can easily hold water.”
Banish bugs with our expert tips on halting creepy crawlies at the threshold.
Photo Credit: Cath Muscat, living4media/Cecilia Möller, Getty Images
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
