Keep this 1 solution on your deck and get rid of no see ums, midges, and biting gnats

As the sun sets and you prepare to enjoy a peaceful evening on your deck, you might find your relaxation interrupted by tiny, biting pests like no see ums, midges, and biting gnats. These miniature nuisances are not only irritating but can also leave you with itchy bites that last for days. Finding an effective solution to keep these pests at bay can significantly enhance your outdoor experience.

Fortunately, there is a straightforward solution that can help protect your deck from these unwelcome visitors. This article will detail the most effective approach to keeping no see ums and their ilk away, ensuring that your outdoor gatherings remain pleasant and bite-free. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or simply unwinding after a long day, this solution will ensure your deck remains a pest-free sanctuary.

The one solution that has proven to be exceptionally effective against no see ums, midges, and biting gnats is a combination of essential oil-based repellents. Specifically, a mix of lemon eucalyptus oil and cedar oil has shown remarkable results.

To create this repellent, mix 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil with 5 drops of cedar oil in a spray bottle, then add 2 ounces of witch hazel and 2 ounces of water. Shake well before each use. This solution can be sprayed around the perimeter of your deck, on furniture, and even lightly on clothing to keep biting pests at bay.

No see ums, midges, and biting gnats are attracted to environments that provide them with moisture and food sources. Decks situated near bodies of water, lush vegetation, or areas with poor drainage can become hotspots for these pests, as they thrive in humid conditions.

Additionally, these insects are drawn to carbon dioxide, which humans exhale, and to the lactic acid found in human sweat. This makes outdoor spaces where people gather particularly enticing for these tiny biters.

The effectiveness of the lemon eucalyptus and cedar oil solution lies in its natural repellent properties. Lemon eucalyptus oil contains PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol), which is a powerful insect repellent. Cedar oil, on the other hand, works by disrupting the pheromones of insects, making it difficult for them to locate their prey.

These oils are not only effective but also provide a natural alternative to chemical repellents, making them safe for use in various settings without causing harm to the environment or the user.

Lemon eucalyptus oil repels insects by masking the scents they are attracted to, such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid. This confuses the pests, preventing them from homing in on their targets. PMD, the active component, is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as an effective mosquito repellent.

Cedar oil works by suffocating insects and disrupting their pheromonal communication. It also acts as a drying agent, which dehydrates and kills small insects on contact. Together, these oils form a formidable barrier against tiny biters.

To set up the solution on your deck, first ensure that the area is clean and free of standing water that could attract more pests. Fill a spray bottle with the prepared mixture of lemon eucalyptus and cedar oils, witch hazel, and water.

Spray the solution around the perimeter of the deck, focusing on entry points such as doorways and any areas with dense foliage. Reapply the spray every two hours if you are spending extended time outdoors, and ensure the bottle is stored away from direct sunlight when not in use.

For optimal protection, place small bowls filled with the essential oil mixture at various points around your deck. These can act as diffusers, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the solution.

Additionally, consider using fans to create airflow on the deck. This can help disperse the repellent scents more evenly and make it even more difficult for no see ums and gnats to land.

The essential oil solution typically provides protection for up to two hours. However, factors such as wind, humidity, and the level of pest activity can affect its duration.

Reapply the solution whenever you notice increased pest activity or if the scent begins to fade. Regular application will ensure consistent protection throughout your time outdoors.

When using essential oil-based repellents, it's important to ensure that they are kept out of reach of children and pets to prevent ingestion. While the solution is natural, it can still cause irritation if it comes into contact with eyes or if ingested.

For outdoor entertaining, inform guests of the repellent's presence and advise them not to touch the spritzed areas. If anyone has a known sensitivity to essential oils, consider setting up fans to disperse the scent further, reducing direct exposure.

Creating this essential oil-based repellent is an affordable option compared to store-bought chemical sprays or electronic bug zappers. A 4-ounce bottle of lemon eucalyptus oil costs around $10, while cedar oil is about $15 for the same amount.

Given that only a small amount is needed for each application, a single purchase can last through multiple uses, making it cost-effective in the long run. In contrast, chemical sprays can cost upwards of $8 per can and may need frequent reapplication.

Homeowners who have switched to the lemon eucalyptus and cedar oil solution report a noticeable decrease in pest activity on their decks. Many users appreciate the natural scent and the absence of harsh chemicals, which allows for a more pleasant outdoor experience.

Some users have noted that the solution is particularly effective during the early evening when no see ums are most active, allowing them to reclaim their outdoor spaces without the worry of bites.

In addition to using the essential oil repellent, consider installing screens around your deck to physically block insects from entering the area. You can also plant insect-repelling herbs such as lavender, mint, and basil around the perimeter to naturally deter pests.

Another hack is to use yellow LED lights instead of white ones, as these are less attractive to insects. Combining these strategies with the oil solution can create a comprehensive defense against no see ums, midges, and biting gnats.