Our Best Tips for Controlling Mosquitos This Summer

Bothersome mosquitos can seriously put a damper on fun outdoor summer gatherings. While it's impossible to completely rid your yard of these unwanted pests, here are some tips and tricks to help you manage them.

Spray away.

Organic, non-toxic bug spray is great for use on kids. Watch the video above to see how to make your own.

An essential oil mixture will keep bugs away all day. MAKE IT: Natural Bug and Tick Repellent

Skip the store-bought, chemical-laden options in favor of a natural, fresher-smelling spray using garden herbs. MAKE IT: Herb-Infused Bug Spray

Try a DIY approach.

Watch the video above to see how to make a bug-busting bouquet, natural spray and easy citronella torches. 

Like mosquitos love blood, bats love mosquitos. Build a bat house to attract mosquitos' most-feared predator. MAKE IT: Bat House

Don't worry about reapplying bug spray with these citronella-infused bracelets. MAKE IT: Paracord Bug Repellent Bracelets

Plant a repellent garden.

Fill a planter or window box with plants like lavender, marigold and rosemary, which put off offensive scents to mosquitos. Bonus: it looks pretty, too!

Burn, baby burn.

Smoke and citronella are your best friends when it comes to mosquito prevention. Upcycle an empty liqour or wine bottle to create your own version of a tiki torch. MAKE IT: Citronella Torches

Look to the garden for natural mosquito repellents. Throw this herb bundle on the fire pit to stay bug free. MAKE IT: Herb Bundle

Don't overlook household items when crafting natural bug repellers. Use a slow cooker to diffuse this essential oil concotion. MAKE IT: Scented Bug Buster

Citronella candles don't have to be ugly. Give them a designer look by dipping them in melted, colorful crayons. MAKE IT: Dip-Dyed Citronella Candles

Use hacks that work.

Installing fans, removing standing water and wearing proper clothing will help repel mosquitos. Here are even more nontoxic tips.

Get your facts straight.

Have you heard the "sweet" blood theory? Can drinking beer make you more attractive to mosquitos? Here's the truth behind nine common myths.

Try homemade remedies for bites.

Sometimes, you just get bit. It's unavoidable. Here's how to treat itchy bites from mosquitos.