Mosquitoes are always a menace. Their signature buzz and the painful burning bites are enough to induce fear. They are also the carriers of some of the most deadly diseases such as Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever. We as parents, worry endlessly to safeguard our babies, who by no means can protect themselves. However, the good news is that with certain measures, we can keep these pests away and protect kids from mosquitoes.
Intrigued? Read on to find out more!
Install Mosquito nets and meshes
Simple and cost-effective mosquito meshes are your best bet to shield and create a no-mosquito zone. With no side effects, this time-tested method never goes wrong. Get to work, and cover all doors and windows with nets and screens of nylon or wire mesh. Seal all gaps to keep those pesky mosquitoes and bugs out!
Another idea is to limit the nets only to the baby’s sleeping and play areas.
Cover your baby’s stroller, carrier or car seat with elasticated mosquito netting to be mosquito-free – on the go.
Dress suitably
Human body odor attracts mosquitoes! Avoid very thick materials because they’ll make your child sweat more. Choose light, airy cotton clothes covering your little one’s skin entirely, while avoiding shorts, skirts and other dresses.
Use Mosquito Repellents
Some mothers prefer completely natural mosquito repellents like applying coconut oil on baby’s skin, burning camphor or rosemary in the house or using lavender sachets around the baby’s sleep areas. These are good for babies under six months of age for whom no commercial mosquito repellent should be used.
However, for older babies, choose effective mosquito repellents that will mask the human smell. Always go for natural products, with no chemicals, like the Natural Mosquito Repellent (DEET Free) from The Moms Co. This product is 100% natural and is loaded with the power of five natural oils such as- Citronella, Lemongrass, Eucalyptus, Cedarwood, and Soya Oils.
Pest control
Carry out regular spraying and fogging to do away with existing mosquitoes and other pests.
Simultaneously, clear the areas around the house and get rid of empty tins, trash, puddles and garbage containers that can collect water. Water in birdbaths, inflatable pools, fountains, indoor plants, and vases must be changed frequently.
Stagnant water is an excellent breeding ground for mosquitoes. Add kerosene oil to open water spaces and ponds, that creates a layer on the water surface preventing breeding.
Get Nature to protect with flowers and plants
Own a garden? Manicure the lawns regularly and trim the plants. Unkept foliage is an ideal place for mosquitoes to breed in.
Grow Holy Basil or Tulsi, Mint, Clove and other similar plants in the garden, whose strong odors are averse to these little bullies.
Scented Geraniums, Marigolds, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Lemon Balm, Lavender are some of the options you can consider inside your house.
Aroma Therapy
Use candles, incense sticks and oil diffusers with natural oils and fragrances such as mint, cloves, anise, citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, neem, and lavender, etc.
Regular use of these products will ensure an amazingly fresh and aromatic house devoid of mosquitoes. However, exercise caution & keep them out of children’s reach.
Limit the usage of products with fragrance.
Use less of highly perfumed products for the baby such as oils, creams, baby washes or products with fruity scents. Apart from loud, dark colors, strong smell also attracts customers.
While keeping your baby safe, also gather knowledge about the different diseases that the deadly mosquito bites can bring about, the symptoms, vaccinations and their treatments. Stay safe and prepared, with our tested tips and remedies to keep your baby safe and to protect kids from mosquitoes. Take a look at The Best Baby Skincare Products for Your Newborn.
Fear no more for it’s now time to fight back!