How Do Mosquito Nets Work?

Mosquito nets work to provide a barrier between mosquitoes and people or pets in order to protect against bites from mosquitoes and other flying insects. A mosquito net with mesh that has holes smaller than 1.2mm will keep mosquitoes away. To keep even smaller insects, such as biting midges, away, hole sizes of 0.6mm and smaller will help keep flying pests away.

What to Look for in Mosquito Patio Nets

An effective and durable mosquito patio net will be made from a durable, high-quality mesh fabric. Outdoor netting material that is 100% polyester, polyethylene, or polypropylene and water resistant is generally considered the best fabric to use. The mesh material should also be breathable as mesh that is too thick can block air flow and create too much heat inside the net. Netting with 250 to 300 holes per square inch is usually ideal.

To help keep mosquitoes out and prevent mosquito bites, it’s important to ensure that no gaps or holes exist in the netting, and that the net itself is sufficiently large so it doesn’t directly rest on your skin. A mosquito net with tears or rips needs to be fixed as soon as possible. When in doubt, err on the side of a slightly larger net, as the goal is to have it be suspended and not laying against you while you relax outside.

Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away From Your Porch or Balcony

• Use fans to create breeze in or around the porch, balcony, or patio since mosquitoes have a hard time flying when there’s wind present.

• Lights attract mosquitoes, so minimize lighting if possible and if not, choose lights with yellow, pinkish, or orange colors. Avoid using ultraviolet, white incandescent and white fluorescent lights.

• If temperatures permit, wear long sleeve shirts and long pants to minimize exposed skin and prevent mosquito bites.

What is an Insecticide Treated Mosquito Net?

Some patio nets are treated with insect repellents that increase their effectiveness. The insecticides that are used for treating these nets can kill and repel mosquitoes, as well as other insects. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), insecticide-treated nets have been shown to reduce mosquito-borne diseases and reduce overall mosquito population numbers.

Currently only two insecticide classes, pyrroles and pyrethroids, are approved for use on mosquito nets. However, there are many aerosol and liquid formulations that include these two insecticide classes and are approved for use. Make sure your mosquito net uses a registered product and any provided directions are carefully adhered to. For more effective mosquito control methods, call an Orkin Pro.