Bug bites can be a royal pain, but not all repellent products have to be an eyesore. These decor pieces will brighten your backyard and prevent your guests from leaving itching and scratching.
60W Equivalent Yellow A19 LED Bug Light Bulb (6 Pack) // $29.97
According to Science Alert, bugs are more attracted to bright white lights than they are to LED lights that give off a yellow or orange hue, so swap out your incandescent bulbs for less intense lights like these from Home Depot.
Bounce Outdoor Fresh Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets // $4.99
According to many old wives’ tales and this Smithsonian.com article, some dryer sheets actually do act as insect repellents. The chemical linalool is toxic to some insects and is also found naturally in lavender and basil. Another chemical, beta-citronellol, is found in citronella, which emits a scent that repels mosquitoes. Slyly tape those dryer sheets to the underside of your patio chairs. One study found Bounce Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets to be particularly effective.
Citronella-infused streamers // $11.97
For get-togethers calling for decorative details, these citronella-infused streamers will do the trick.
Mosquito Curtains // $825
If you don’t have a screened-in porch but wish there was some sort of barrier between you and the great outdoors, these mosquito curtains can be bunched to the side when not in use or pulled to protect your party guests.
Lace Bowl Citronella Candle // $20.00
Ditch the traditional citronella tin can and add a creative pop of color to your tabletop. This gently scented, clean-burning candle comes in a ceramic bowl, available in blue, red and green.
ThermaCELL Mosquito Repellent Pest Control Outdoor Lantern // $29.97
If flames aren’t your game, you can illuminate the night and keep the bugs at bay using this lightweight lantern.
Urban Metal Torch 2 Pack + 100-ounce Bitefighter Torch Fuel // $31.99
Tiki torches are a summer night staple, so you might as well make the most of them by using mosquito-resistant fuel. This is a pack with both torches and fueld, but you can also buy the fuel cartridges separately.
If you want to go the extra mile and happen to have a green thumb, Rodale’s Organic Life reports that lemon balm, catnip, basil, lavender, peppermint, citrosum, sage and rosemary have insect-repellent properties. The Mother Nature Network also recommends planting lemon grass, lemon thyme, mint, alliums, chrysanthemums, marigolds, nasturtiums and petunias to add color to your landscape while also keeping you bug-bite free.
