7 Tips to Keep Bugs Away From Your Patio

Use Essential Oils

To create a solution that keeps bugs away from your patio, combine one-part witch hazel and one-part water. For every cup of solution, add a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol and a few dozen drops of essential oils.

As for essential oils to use, look to lavender, rosemary, lemon thyme, or basil -- as well as others that may mimic the scent of plants and herbs we’d previously mentioned. These scents imitate the odors of the plants for which they are named and allow you to combine several kinds of protection into one solution.

You can use this mixture to keep bugs away from a patio by spraying the mixture evenly across the perimeter of your space.

Drain Any Standing Water

Of the numerous ways to get rid of flying bugs on a patio, few are as important as addressing the root of the problem. Standing water can be a breeding ground for generation after generation of pesky mosquitoes. Whenever possible, you want to keep gutters, downspouts, birdbaths, pools, buckets, and other areas clear of standing water.

Spray Mouthwash around your patio

If you don’t have rubbing alcohol or essential oils, an alcohol-based mouthwash can be another effective way to repel bugs from a patio. Just load some mouthwash into a spray bottle, then spray down the perimeter of the deck, or even your patio furniture. This can repel bugs and leave a pleasant scent, but the rapid evaporation of alcohol means that regular reapplication may be necessary.

Use Citronella Candles and Torches

Some homeowners often overlook citronella as an option to keep pests away from their patio. Citronella candles and torches have a reputation for being effective at warding off mosquitos, but they’re also effective at discouraging flies and similar critters. In addition to filling the air with scents that discourage pests from bothering you, burning citronella can add natural ambient lighting to help illuminate your patio.

Keep Your Backyard And Patio Trimmed and Clean

Unkempt backyards provide a great home for bugs. Ticks enjoy hiding in tall grass, and bushes pressing against your home can make it easier for pests to enter. Keeping your yard looking neat isn’t just a matter of appearances; it can actually go a long way towards keeping bugs away from a patio. Do your best to pick up trash and clean up messes before they have a chance to attract insects.

Following or combining several of these simple tips can help you keep your backyard patio a bug-free place to enjoy time with friends and family outdoors.