Mosquitoes are attracted to floral scents.
According to the myth busters at Snopes, the repellent nature of dryer sheets in relation to mosquitoes is purely fiction, though many people swear by their effectiveness. Unfortunately, the heavy floral perfumes that make dryer sheets so attractive to us are also attractive to these biting pests. But there are ways you can beat the bite without wasting your dryer sheets. Does this Spark an idea?
Eliminate Perfumes
One way to make yourself less attractive to mosquitoes is to eliminate any perfumes. Use unscented products when it comes to soaps, deodorants and detergents. On days when you know you will be outdoors, forgo the hair conditioner, hair styling products and perfume. All these flowery scents can make you more attractive to mosquitoes.
Dress Appropriately
Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so dig out the whites and the khakis and any other light colored clothing. For better protection, wear lightweight clothing with long sleeves and long pants to cover as much skin as possible. Try soaking a bandanna in your favorite bug spray and tying it around your neck, on the crown of your hat or even hooked through your belt loop.
Mosquitoes and Smell
Mosquitoes track their prey by following the carbon dioxide that is exhaled. Often, mosquitoes are more attracted to people who eat many processed and sugary foods than for those on a more natural diet. Eating a lot of garlic may also make you less desirable, as the garlic oil is secreted through your pores and on your breath. Onions have been shown to have a similar effect.
Reduce Habitat
To reduce the number of mosquitoes around the yard and garden, grow plants that mosquitoes dislike, like marigold, rosemary, peppermint, catnip and lemon balm. Rub the leaves of these plants between your fingers when you go out, as this activates the odors the bugs find unpleasant. Also eliminate standing water from planters, pet bowls, old tires and rain barrels, as these are mosquito breeding grounds.
Tags: dryer sheets, attractive mosquitoes, Mosquitoes attracted, through your