How do Mosquito Nets Work?

Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance. They can spread illnesses and pose risks to our health and well-being, making mosquito control a top concern in most parts of the U.S. 

An outdoor mosquito net offers a potential solution to mosquito problems, but do mosquito nets really work as intended? Read on to learn what a net for mosquitoes is, what its benefits are, and where it may fall short.

What is mosquito netting?

Mosquito netting is a type of curtain that people hang to physically block mosquitoes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends hanging mosquito netting in bedrooms if you sleep with windows open without screens or with doors open without screens, as they reduce the risk of mosquito bites. 

The use of mosquito nets in open-air indoor spaces dates back to the ancient world. Today, people are increasingly turning to mosquito netting for porches, balconies, decks, and other outdoor living spaces.

What is mosquito netting made of?

Manufacturers produce mosquito netting out of a variety of synthetic materials. Polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene are some of the most common materials. 

In some cases, manufacturers add chemicals to repel mosquitoes from the netting. However, treated mosquito netting may only be effective for a short time due to the effects of weather and sun exposure.

Where do people put mosquito netting?

People may hang mosquito netting anywhere they spend time sitting, relaxing, dining, or entertaining outdoors. Some common areas for hanging mosquito nets include balconies, porches, patios, decks, under-deck areas, pool areas, and gazebos. Restaurants, hotels, and events venues with outdoor seating may also hang mosquito nets.

How do mosquito nets work?

Mosquito nets work by creating a physical barrier that stops mosquitoes from reaching people. If you have a deck or balcony mosquito net installed properly, the pests will have difficulty getting past the fabric, making you less likely to get bitten. 

What are the benefits of mosquito nets?

The largest benefit of using mosquito netting for decks, porches, and outdoor living spaces is that it can lower the likelihood of bites and contracting a disease. Mosquitoes are known carriers of various serious illnesses, including malaria, West Nile virus, Zika virus, dengue, and Chikungunya virus.

Another benefit of mosquito netting is that the barrier allows ample airflow. You’ll still be able to enjoy the breeze and fresh air while spending time in your outdoor living space. Mosquito nets are also relatively affordable solutions for mosquito control.

What are the disadvantages of mosquito nets? 

For all their benefits, a mosquito net does have some disadvantages, including:

• Appearance: Some people find mosquito netting unattractive.
• Blocking the view: Although you can see through the holes in mosquito netting, the material partially obstructs your view of your yard and the landscape beyond it.
• Incomplete protection: Mosquitoes can bite through netting if you sit, stand, or sleep too close to it. Allowing enough room to prevent bites may be impossible in compact spaces. Unnoticed rips and tears in the fabric can let mosquitoes get past the netting.
• Installation: For mosquito netting to work, it must be installed correctly. In some areas, hanging netting may be a challenge.
• Lifespan: Depending on how exposed the area is, mosquito netting may wear out relatively quickly and require frequent replacement. 
• Restricting access: In some cases, mosquito netting can make accessing outdoor seating and dining areas from the yard difficult or burdensome.

Keep in mind that mosquitoes can bite you anywhere on your property. While netting may provide some protection on your deck or patio, you’re still exposed to them when doing things like mowing the grass, gardening, and performing other tasks. Combining mosquito nets with other pest control solutions is often the best approach.

Are black or white mosquito nets better? 

Manufacturers offer mosquito netting in white and black colors, and each type has certain benefits. White mosquito netting makes it easier to see mosquitoes that are on the material so you can avoid them. Black mosquito netting may be more resistant to UV exposure and less conspicuous when hanging in outdoor living spaces.

Pest control services 

If you’re concerned about mosquitoes, call Hawx Pest Control. Our licensed pest control technicians can inspect your property and identify things that may attract them so that you can make the necessary changes for better mosquito control. In addition, our technicians can develop a plan for treating mosquitoes that incorporates high-quality products and state-of-the-art tools and technologies. They’ll also recommend a maintenance schedule to help keep mosquitoes at bay in the future. Contact us today for a free estimate.