These Brilliant Products Will Uninvite Mosquitoes and Other Bugs from Your Outdoor Space

published Jul 4, 2019
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Gathering outside on the porch or patio with friends is always one of the best parts of summer — that is, until unwanted guests start to show up. No, we’re not talking about your nosy neighbors; we mean

mosquitoes and other bugs

Consider picking up one or more of the items below before sending out invites for your next dinner party!

Credit: Terrain

1. Madison James Flyaway Sticks, $38 for 31 at Terrain

These best-selling sticks, which frequently sell out, are hand-dipped in lime, cedar, and other essential oils. When lit, the magic wands give off a woodsy smell — and a major warning for mosquitos, hornets, and other pests to back off. Each stick burns for four hours.

Credit: Amazon

Citronella plants, which produce a lemony scent when cut, are a natural, chemical-free solution to your mosquito problem. And because they produce pink blossoms, they’re a lot nicer to look at than a bug zapper. Amazon reviewers swear by them, but be warned: These plants grow quickly and can grow up to four feet wide and four feet high.

Credit: Amazon

Turn your back porch into a mystical dreamland with the addition of these sparkly, star-shaped string lights, which are infused with citronella! Warding off bugs just got super cute.

Credit: Terrain

4. Linen Pot Citronella Candle, from $22 at Terrain

Okay, who knew a citronella candle could look so chic? Start out with a small one or go all out with the larger size. Either way, bugs won’t stand a chance! The weathered jar is perfect for your patio space.

Credit: Amazon

Say goodbye to uncomfortable and unsightly bites by misting yourself with this non-toxic bug spray, which you can order on Amazon Prime. While it’s on the pricier side, you’ll feel good about the fact that it’s totally natural, biodegradable, and draws from essential oils. Oh, and it works!

Credit: Amazon

6. Green Mesh Plant Netting, from $6.50

Mosquitoes and small bugs aren’t the only pests out and about this season. Keep your growing summer fruits and vegetables safe from predators with this easy-to-install netting. Choose from three different lengths, depending on the size of your garden.

Credit: L.L.Bean

If it’s cooler out, toss on this shirt before spending a leisurely morning reading on the deck. It’s treated with repellent (and offers SPF 50 protection), so you can sit back and relax without worrying about returning inside with an arm full of bites.

Credit: Nordstrom

8. Small Hanging Citronella Coil, $17 at Nordstrom

Not one for traditional tabletop candles? Try out this citronella coil, which you can hang outdoors. It costs about the same as a bottle of wine, but with its 36-hour burn time, it’ll last for many gatherings.

This post originally ran on Apartment Therapy. See it there: These 8 Genius Products Will Uninvite Mosquitoes and Other Bugs from Your Outdoor Space