How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes

Confirm you have mosquitoes

Start by confirming the bug. Mosquitoes have a few features that set them apart. Adults measure 3–6 mm (up to about 0.24 in) and are usually black, white and gray. Look for these features:

• Long, needle-like mouthpart (proboscis)
• Scales along the wing veins and a slender body
• Asian tiger species has black-and-white striped legs

They are most often confused with crane fly and fungus gnat. See the full mosquito profile for side-by-side details.

Why you have mosquitoes

Mosquitoes live outdoors and find people by sensing carbon dioxide, body heat and movement. Tall grass, brush, standing water and shady, humid areas support large populations. Pets and wildlife can carry them close to the house. They are most active in spring, summer and fall, so expect to see more of them then.

When you'll see mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are most active in spring, summer and fall. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.

Typical places to check: yard or patio, near water and lawn or grass.

Step-by-step: getting rid of mosquitoes

Step 1: Dump standing water weekly from pots

Dump standing water weekly from pots, gutters, tires and toys. This is the step most people skip, and it is the one that makes the biggest difference.

Step 2: Use an EPA-registered repellent such as DEET or picaridin

Use an EPA-registered repellent such as DEET or picaridin. This is the step most people skip, and it is the one that makes the biggest difference.

Step 3: Treat ponds or rain barrels with Bti dunks

Treat ponds or rain barrels with Bti dunks. This is the step most people skip, and it is the one that makes the biggest difference.

Natural and low-toxicity options

These methods work well alongside the steps above and keep chemical use to a minimum:

• Use an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin, following the label.
• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin where appropriate.
• Wear long sleeves and pants tucked into socks in high-risk areas.
• Shower soon after coming indoors.

If you do use a pesticide, choose one labeled for this pest and the place you're treating, and follow the label exactly. The label is the law.

When to call a professional

Consider a professional yard treatment if bites are frequent despite personal protection, but personal precautions remain the most reliable defense against mosquitoes.

How to keep mosquitoes from coming back

• Mow grass regularly and clear brush at the edge of the yard.
• Remove standing water every week.
• Keep play areas and patios away from wooded borders.
• Protect pets with veterinarian-recommended products.

Safety notes

Mosquito bites itch and, depending on the region, can transmit West Nile, dengue and other viruses.

Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.

About flies & mosquitoes

The mosquito is one of the flies & mosquitoes. Flies have only one pair of working wings; the second pair is reduced to small balancing knobs called halteres. They go through complete metamorphosis, and the larvae, called maggots, need moist organic material such as garbage, soil, drain film or standing water.

Fly problems are almost always breeding-site problems. Finding and removing the moist material where larvae develop works far better than swatting adults.

Frequently asked questions