Mosquitoes can be a major nuisance to both adults and children, but they can also be a health hazard. Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and the Zika virus can be very dangerous.

While it is impossible to eliminate mosquitoes entirely, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of your children getting bitten. Here are 30 tips for keeping your kids safe from mosquitoes:.

Clothing

One of the most effective ways to keep mosquitoes away from your children is to dress them in the right clothing.

Cover as much of your child’s skin as possible
Dress your child in light-colored clothing
Avoid dressing your child in floral prints or bright colors
Use mosquito netting over strollers and baby carriers
Have your child wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants

Stay Indoors

Mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Keep your children indoors during these times to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes.

Use Insect Repellent

Insect repellents are a great way to keep mosquitoes away from your children. However, it is important to use the right type of repellent and use it correctly.

Choose an EPA-registered insect repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus as the active ingredient
Do not apply repellent to your child’s hands, eyes, or mouth
Do not apply repellent under your child’s clothing
Apply repellent to clothing and exposed skin
Wash your child’s skin with soap and water to remove repellent when they come indoors

Use Fans

Mosquitoes are not strong fliers, so using fans can help keep them away from your children.

Use ceiling fans or box fans in your child’s room
Use a portable fan when your child is outside
Make sure the fan is blowing in the direction of your child

Eliminate Standing Water

Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Eliminate sources of standing water around your home to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your area.

Empty or cover any containers that hold water
Clean out gutters to prevent water from standing
Fill in holes in trees that hold water
Keep swimming pools and hot tubs clean and chlorinated

Mosquito Traps

Mosquito traps are a great tool to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your area, but they are not a complete solution.

Choose a trap that uses carbon dioxide to attract mosquitoes
Place the trap away from areas where people gather
Empty the trap regularly to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for mosquitoes

Use Natural Repellents

If you prefer to use natural products to keep mosquitoes away from your children, there are several options available.

Citronella oil can be burned in candles or used in diffusers
Lavender oil can be applied to your child’s skin
Catnip oil can be used in a spray bottle
Lemon eucalyptus oil can be used as an insect repellent

Stay Cool

Mosquitoes are attracted to warm bodies, so keeping your child cool can help reduce their attraction to mosquitoes.

Keep your home cool with air conditioning
Have your child wear light, breathable clothing
Encourage your child to stay in the shade when outdoors

Use Mosquito Netting

Mosquito netting is a simple, effective way to keep mosquitoes away from your child while they sleep.

Use a mosquito net over your child’s crib or bed
Make sure the netting is securely fastened to the bed
Inspect the netting regularly for holes or tears

Clean Up

Keeping your home and yard clean can help reduce the number of mosquitoes in your area.

Remove any trash or debris from your yard
Keep your lawn and bushes trimmed
Remove any old tires or other items that can hold water
Keep your home clean and clutter-free to reduce hiding spots for mosquitoes

Conclusion

While it is impossible to completely eliminate mosquitoes, there are many things you can do to reduce your child’s exposure to them.

It is important to use the right clothing, use insect repellent correctly, and eliminate standing water in your area. By following these tips, you can help keep your children safe from mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.