A favorite victim of mosquitoes? Discover what attracts them to your home.
The carbon dioxide you exhale is detectable by mosquitoes up to 50 meters away. The taller you are, the more you move, or the more out of breath you are (after exertion, for example), the more you produce. To them, it’s a bright sign announcing a feast.
The warmth of your skin, a landing signal
Mosquitoes are attracted to the warmest areas of your body. That’s why they often target your legs or face. If you’re exercising or moving around outdoors, especially in summer, you’re practically rolling out a thermal red carpet for them.
Your sweat, a scent that intoxicates them
Sweat contains lactic acid, ammonia, and other compounds that attract mosquitoes. Even without activity, a simple warm day is enough to make your skin particularly appealing to their traps.
How to keep them at a distance without staying confined at home
Eliminate stagnant water, their favorite nursery
Mosquitoes don’t breed in tall grass, but in water. A saucer under a flowerpot, a clogged gutter, or an abandoned tire filled with rainwater: these are their ideal breeding grounds. Remember to empty, cover, or change the water in any container at least once a week.
Plant natural repellents in your garden
Lemongrass, lavender, peppermint, basil, or calendula: these plants give off scents that mosquitoes hate. In addition to beautifying your balcony, they form an effective natural barrier. Bonus: they attract bees, not mosquitoes.
