By the tail-end of winter, we’re so desperate for summer sunshine that we often forget the trials and tribulations associated with warmer weather.
As such, here in the UK, we tend to be woefully unprepared for the aggressive onslaught of higher temperatures; the resulting days out in the park, and those unbearably sweaty nights spent tossing and turning in the heat.
From insufficient cooling systems and flu-like hayfever symptoms to battling hordes of midges, mosquitos and wasps at all times of day – the glorious summer sun brings forth a myriad of problems.
While electric fans and hot weather bedding can be bought to help alleviate oppressive heat, and prescription antihistamines are available at local pharmacies, many British households remain ignorant of the plethora of solutions on offer for reducing the amount of stinging and biting insects that are able to enter your abode.
Lathering your body in deet-based repellent and stacking bracelets on your wrists and ankles is all well and good, but there are far simpler solutions in the form of nets and screens which are proven to keep insects of all sizes at bay, without that overwhelming chemical smell.
What are mosquito nets?
Mosquito nets are a type of mesh curtain which are draped over beds to prevent insects from bothering you while you sleep. They create a physical yet highly breathable barrier which stops even the smallest mosquitos from entering your sleep space. To ensure they work properly, mosquito nets should have plenty of space and never touch the skin – or a mosquito might still be able to bite you through the mesh.
What are mosquito screens?
Mosquito screens are another form of mesh protection that is often more robust than classic nets. Instead of being draped over your beds, mosquito screens are attached to windows to provide a layer of protection against bugs during the summertime. They’re an incredibly useful home accessory since they keep insects out while allowing users to keep their windows open throughout warmer months.
Keep scrolling for the best mosquito nets and insect screens for your home in 2024.
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Untreated Travel Mosquito Net - 2 person
This high-quality and surprisingly chic mosquito net is suitable for two people to sleep soundly under. Weighing just 270g, it offers an airtight insect solution thanks to the elasticated bottom.
The mesh has a tight weave with an impressive 63 holes per centimetre squared and can be hung from the ceiling of your tent or hotel room with the built-in cord – just make sure you have a hook or carabiner handy as it’s not supplied. The mesh is made from untreated materials and 77 per cent undyed yarn.
Buy now £19.99, Decathlon
Ultra Large Mosquito Net with Carry Bag
Perfect for happy campers and disgruntled farmers, this extra-large mosquito net has been designed to keep out mosquitoes, noseeum, black flies, wasps, bugs and other pesky insects. The hexagonal mesh design maximises breathability while remaining compact enough to keep even the smallest bugs and flies at bay. It has two openings on either side which make it easy to step in and out of, and comes with a selection of hooks, plugs and string for breezy installation.
Buy now £22.99, Amazon
Bushcraft Hammock Mosquito Net
Wild, solo campers will rejoice for this fantastic hammock mosquito net which will keep you protected against bug bites no matter how high up you string your temporary hanging bed. Easy to unzip and hop out of whenever nature calls, you’re bound to have your best outdoor night’s sleep yet.
Buy now £24.99, Decathlon
Magnetic Window Screen
Crafted from high-density fibreglass mesh, this easy-to-install insect screen is held in place with the help of adhesive magnetic strips. One set includes a roll of magnetic strip, a roll of PVC strip, a piece of mesh measuring 120 x 130cm which can be trimmed to size, additional accessories and an instructional guide.
Buy now £26.99, Amazon
JIT-FUNG DIY Fly Screen for Windows
Offered in a range of sizes to suit your needs, these fly screens are held in place by Velcro hook tapes and made from 100 per cent polyester mesh. We love how this set comes with a handy, gliding cutter to make trimming the mesh sheets to size easier than ever.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
Schellenberg 50329 150 x 180 cm Fly Screen
Available in white and black, the stabilised polyester fabric of the Schellenberg fly screen is machine washable at 30 degrees and can be easily installed with the help of self-adhesive mounting tape. The best part? It’s equipped with a zip pocket to make opening and closing your windows without removing the screen as easy as pie.
Buy now £10.82, Amazon
Hoberg Window Fly Screen with Innovative Magnetic Fastening
This chic fitted screen is barely perceptible to the naked eye. Made-to-order screens from Velux are mounted onto the wall rather than the window frame, which means you’ll need to measure the width and height of your window opening for an accurate quote. They are compatible with all Velux blinds and roof windows.
Buy now £22.76, Amazon
Velux insect screen
This chic fitted screen is barely perceptible to the naked eye. Made-to-order screens from Velux are mounted onto the wall rather than the window frame, which means you’ll need to measure the width and height of your window opening for an accurate quote. They are compatible with all Velux blinds and roof windows.
Buy now £140.49, Amazon
