Taking a dip in your pool during the warmer months should be a relaxing way to cool off. But if mosquitoes are lurking, the experience can quickly be spoilt.
Everyone wants to avoid those itchy, red bites – not only are they annoying, but they can also be dangerous in regions where these bugs are known to spread diseases. In swimwear, you're more exposed to these pests, so it's important to take preventative measures to deter them from your backyard pool.
6 mosquito-repelling methods to try
Try these expert-approved mosquito-prevention tips and enjoy a more enjoyable swim.
1. Reduce stagnant water sources around your plot
To prevent mosquito larvae in pool water, it’s important to maintain your pool, says Alicia Toedter of Leslie's, a leading pool-care supplies company. 'Mosquitoes won’t breed in balanced, circulating, filtered water, and sanitizers will kill off the microorganisms that mosquito larvae need to survive.'
But, while well-maintained pools won't attract mosquitoes, stagnant water elsewhere in your plot can be to blame. Potential sources include birdbaths, gutters, and other items you may have around your backyard, Alicia says. So, try to eliminate these where possible, and replace the water in bird baths often.
Remember to keep water features and ponds clean, too. You could also apply a mosquito dunk, available from Amazon, to the water as an extra preventative measure. This is a biological mosquito-control solution, and highly effective when used in non-chlorinated water sources, says pest-control expert Bill Swank.
Julia Ivanova of Discount Salt Pool also recommends draining your pool cover at least once a week and after rainfall. Consider your pool toys, too. 'Lay them out in the sun to dry after use, and it's best to store them indoors until you need them to help prevent water from accumulating,' Julia says.
2. Surround your pool with mosquito-repelling plants
Another method to keep the bugs away from your backyard swimming pool is to incorporate mosquito-repelling plants around the pool area, perhaps as part of a container garden.
Travis Turgeon of PottedExotics.com recommends citronella grass. 'Citronella is the main ingredient in most mosquito-repellent candles,' he explains. 'Citronella grass is super easy to grow and requires little upkeep or maintenance – so it's perfect for almost any pool owner.'
Alternatively, he suggests citronella geranium – a perennial herb with wonderfully fragrant leaves that also contain citronella. 'It also blooms from late spring to early autumn, adding a touch of style to your pool landscaping,' he adds.
Marigolds can also be effective at keeping these pests at bay, as they contain pyrethrum. This is a primary ingredient in many commercial mosquito-repellent products, he says.
These plants, amongst others, are effective at keeping bees away from a pool, too.
3. Light a mosquito-deterring candle nearby
As an extra precaution, or if you already have plenty of plants around your pool, try lighting a citronella candle or two on your pool patio. 'Just be sure that these are placed in a safe location, out of reach of children and pets,' says Alicia.
This cement trough candle from Terrain is the perfect centerpiece for a poolside dining table for upping the ambiance.
You can also burn specially-formulated incense, such as these Madison James Flyaway Sticks, also from Terrain, that are scented with Texas cedar, geranium, and clove.
4. Enclose your pool
Physical barriers like pool enclosures or mosquito nets can also be installed around the pool area to prevent mosquito entry, suggests Vincent Luca, the Owner of On Demand Pest Control. It's a good solution for regions with more severe mosquito problems – plus, it will help to keep fallen leaves and other debris out, making pool maintenance easier.
Depending on the type of enclosure, they can be great at increasing the level of privacy for your pool, too. What's more, some designs can offer protection from the elements, meaning you can enjoy a swim whatever the weather.
'Using fans and misters can also help deter mosquitoes from your poolside patio,' Alicia adds – and they'll keep you cool in the meantime.
5. Install mosquito traps on your pool patio
'Mosquito traps that use UV light, CO2, or other mosquito attractants can also be placed strategically around the pool area to reduce mosquito numbers,' says Vincent. For example, the Endbug Bug Zapper from Amazon is well-rated, and can be hung on your pool patio.
However, this isn't the best approach for wildlife-friendly gardens. As Bill Swank points out, while they might give a certain satisfaction, studies have shown that they often kill more beneficial insects than mosquitoes.
6. Apply a mosquito repellent when lounging by your pool
Mosquito repellent can be used to protect yourself. 'There are special formulations that are waterproof and can be applied before taking a dip,' advises Alicia.
'There are also natural repellent products and home solutions that can be made of lemon or eucalyptus oils,' she continues. 'However, when swimming, these must be reapplied often to maintain their effectiveness.'
Alternatively, there are scented bands that you can wear on your wrist, such as these BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets from Amazon, which are waterproof.
Keeping mosquitoes away will make your pool a safer and more enjoyable place to spend time in. But if you do get bitten by one of these bugs, these 'Don't Scratch That' patches from Terrain, infused with tea tree oil, should help provide relief.
And remember, as well as ways to keep biting insects away, there are other pool safety tips to bear in mind for backyard pools – whatever their size.
