How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes

Updated 2026-06-07

You can’t spray your way out of a mosquito problem — you have to attack where they breed. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water, and even a bottle-cap’s worth is enough. Eliminate the water, treat the shady spots where adults rest, and use repellents that genuinely work, and you’ll cut the bites dramatically. Here’s the order that matters.

1. Dump the standing water (the #1 step)

Walk your yard and empty or refresh anything holding water at least weekly: plant saucers, buckets, tarps, toys, clogged gutters, birdbaths, old tires. This is where mosquitoes breed — remove it and you cut the population at the source.

2. Treat water you can’t drain

For ponds, rain barrels, drains and low spots that stay wet, drop in mosquito dunks or bits (BTI). The bacteria kill mosquito larvae before they become biting adults, and they’re safe around pets, wildlife and plants.

3. Treat resting areas and the yard

Adult mosquitoes rest in shade and dense foliage during the day. Treating shrubs, tall grass and the undersides of decks knocks them down; in a heavy-pressure area this is a recurring, seasonal job.

4. Protect yourself

Use an EPA-registered repellent — DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus — on skin, and an area repellent (such as Thermacell) on the patio. A simple trick: run a fan where you sit. Mosquitoes are weak fliers and a breeze keeps them off.

5. Keep them out of the house

Repair window and door screens, close gaps, and keep no standing water in indoor saucers. Most indoor mosquitoes simply flew in through a gap.

When to call a pro

A large or heavily wooded yard, persistent pressure, or disease concern can justify recurring professional yard treatments that reach resting sites and breeding zones at scale — a free quote is a sensible step.

Dealing with a bigger pest problem than fruit flies? Get free quotes from licensed local pest pros — no obligation.

Frequently asked questions

What actually gets rid of mosquitoes?

Removing standing water is the single most effective thing — it stops them breeding. Combine it with larvicide (BTI) for water you can’t drain, resting-area treatment, and repellents for yourself.

Do bug zappers get rid of mosquitoes?

Not really — studies show zappers kill mostly harmless night insects and very few mosquitoes. Source reduction and repellents work far better.

What’s the best mosquito repellent?

EPA-registered DEET or picaridin for skin are the most reliable; oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based option. Thermacell-type area repellents work well for a patio.

Why are there so many mosquitoes in my yard?

Almost always standing water nearby — even small amounts. Clogged gutters, saucers and low spots are common culprits; clear them first.