Mosquito Management

How to Reduce Mosquito Bites at Home and Outdoors

DEET is one of the most effective personal repellents. For adults, use around 24% for up to 5 hours of protection. For children over the age of 6 months, use 10% or lower. DEET should never be used on babies under the age of 6 months. Always follow the label, or see the Government of Canada’s website for additional recommendations.
Picaridin, also known as Icaridin is another effective and recognized mosquito and tick repellent. Some benefits associated with Picaridin based formulations are the lack of odour and its non-damaging effect to plastics or synthetics. For both adults and children, use around 20% for up to ~7 hours of protection. Children under 6 months should not use. Always follow the labels instructions to ensure proper usage.
Natural scents from plants like lavender, marigolds, and catnip may help, but aren’t as reliable as sprays. Crushing the leaves is often necessary to release the repelling scent.

Mosquitoes need still water to grow. Even a small amount—like what collects in a bottle cap—can be enough. Check your yard for:

Empty and clean these regularly to stop mosquitoes before they hatch.

Birds, frogs, and even spiders help control mosquito populations naturally. Keeping them around helps maintain balance.

Mosquitoes prefer warm environments. Running your air conditioner not only cools your home, but also helps keep them out.

For infants, use netting over strollers and dress them in long sleeves and pants. Always check the label before applying any repellent.
For pets, empty and clean water bowls daily. Avoid walks during peak mosquito times—dawn and dusk—and only use products labeled safe for animals.

Wear light-coloured, tightly woven clothing. This helps reduce mosquito attraction and gives you an extra layer of protection.
Avoid dark or bright colours, which make you more visible and can trap heat and sweat—both of which attract mosquitoes.