10 eco-friendly ways to fight mosquitoes

Ibiza, the jewel of the Balearic Islands, attracts thousands of visitors every year in search of heavenly beaches and unforgettable parties. But behind this picture postcard is a silent menace: the tiger mosquito. Present throughout the archipelago, this insect is not just a noise nuisance; it is also a vector of diseases such as dengue fever, with cases reported among tourists returning from Ibiza.

Faced with this reality, how can we protect ourselves without resorting to chemical products that are harmful to our health and the environment? The answer lies in simple, natural and effective measures. Discover 10 ecological solutions to say goodbye to insect bites and enjoy your summer evenings to the full.

1. Remove stagnant water

In Ibiza and the other Balearic Islands, mosquitoes, particularly the tiger mosquito, find stagnant water an ideal place to lay their eggs. These often unobtrusive breeding grounds are ubiquitous: saucers under flower pots, blocked gutters, abandoned toys, used tires, poorly stretched tarpaulins or uncovered water tanks.

To combat mosquitoes effectively, it is essential to eliminate these watering holes:

• Regularly empty saucers and other containers likely to retain water
• Clean and unclog gutters to ensure proper drainage
• Cover tanks with mosquito nets or airtight lids
• Remove unnecessary objects that accumulate water

Read more: Why mosquitoes love stagnant water in Ibiza

2. Install mosquito nets

In the Balearic Islands, installing mosquito nets is a reliable anti-mosquito solution. Several types are recommended:

• Fixed insect screen for lightly used windows
• Roller screen for frequent openings
• Pleated screens for large windows

Easy to install, these chemical-free physical barriers provide effective protection against mosquitoes in both indoor and outdoor spaces.

3. Wear light-coloured, covering clothing

Tiger mosquitoes bite mainly at dawn and dusk. To avoid being bitten, wear long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Dark, tight-fitting clothing attracts and facilitates bites. Remember to cover your ankles and feet, often overlooked but highly exposed areas.

4. Use repellent essential oils

Effective natural solutions include repellent essential oils such as citronella,lemon eucalyptus, geranium or lavender. They can be diffused or applied to the skin (with care). Their natural origin and effectiveness in repelling biting insects make them a valuable ally in the fight against mosquitoes.

5. Plant repellent vegetation

Some plants are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also repellent:

• Lemongrass
• Lavender
• Rose Geranium
• Basil

Plant them near terraces, balconies or entrances. Their scent keeps mosquitoes away. These mosquito repellents are both effective and easy to install.

Find out more: 15 must-have mosquito repellent plants

6. Install eco-friendly mosquito traps

Ecological mosquito traps reduce mosquito populations without insecticides. Three main types:

• CO2 traps
• UV light traps
• Homemade traps

They attract mosquitoes with olfactory or visual lures and then trap them. Properly placed and maintained, they are formidable against these insects.

7. Use anti-mosquito fans

A simple fan can be an excellent mosquito repellent. The air current disturbs their flight and disperses the body odors they use to locate their prey. Some models even diffuse repellent substances. Place them near resting or eating areas.

8. Install nesting boxes for insectivorous birds

Biological control is a sustainable way of eliminating mosquitoes. Swallows, swifts and chickadees consume thousands of insects a day. Installing nesting boxes encourages their presence. Choose natural materials, avoid noisy areas and clean the boxes at the end of the season.

9. Make homemade mosquito traps

Homemade traps are simple and inexpensive. Example:

1. Cutting a plastic bottle
2. Pour in warm water mixed with brown sugar
3. Add yeast once cooled
4. Form a funnel with the upper part

Fermentation releases CO2, attracting trapped mosquitoes. Effective, environmentally-friendly, repeat every two weeks.

10. Install Mosquizen mosquito bollards

The Mosquizen terminal, based on Qista technology, is an anti-mosquito solution renowned for its effectiveness. It attracts mosquitoes with a mixture of olfactory lures and CO2, then captures them in a trap. Toxic-free, it is safe for both humans and wildlife. In Ibiza, some hotels have embarked on a process of“clean mosquito control” by adopting it.

See all Mosquizen products

Adopt a sustainable anti-mosquito strategy in the Balearic Islands

Mosquito control requires a combined strategy. Avoiding stagnant zones, favoring natural solutions and installing innovative devices such as Mosquizen bollards all contribute to a healthier, more serene living environment. These ecological gestures help to protect both public health and the Balearic Islands’ precious ecosystems.

FAQ – Everything you need to know about mosquitoes and ecological control

Which areas of the Balearic Islands are susceptible to mosquito proliferation?

Sensitive areas are generally shady, damp places where water can stagnate, even in small quantities. This includes pot saucers, poorly closed skimmers or blocked gutters. These spaces encourage the proliferation of mosquito larvae, particularly the tiger mosquito, which is very active in the warm Balearic climate.

Why does humidity encourage mosquitoes?

Humidity is essential to the life cycle of mosquitoes. A simple puddle of water can be enough to host eggs, whose laying is often invisible to the naked eye. Hot, humid climatic conditions, such as in Ibiza or Majorca, increase the speed of larval development.

Are there any natural products that are effective against mosquitoes?

Yes, several natural products are used as mosquito repellents. One of these islemon eucalyptus essential oil, recognized for its repellent properties. Its use requires certain dilutions, especially for children and pregnant women.

Is DEET recommended for protection in Ibiza?

DEET is a powerful chemical repellent, often found in conventional products. Although effective, it is not derived fromnatural sources. For a holiday in an unspoilt setting like the Balearics, it’s best to opt for safe, scientifically-proven alternatives.

Can mosquito larvae be eliminated without insecticides?

Yes, larvae can be eliminated with a biological treatment such as BTI(Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis), a larvicide that specifically targets mosquitoes without harming other species. This method is one of several recognized approaches to biological control.

What’s the difference between the tiger mosquito and the classic flying mosquito?

The tiger mosquito(Aedes albopictus or albopictus) is smaller, more aggressive and bites during the day. Unlike traditional flying mosquitoes, it can transmit viruses such as chikungunya and dengue fever. It is a disease vector that is particularly closely monitored in metropolitan and island areas.

How do you know if a product is scientifically proven?

An anti-mosquito product is scientifically proven if it has been tested in the laboratory or in the field by independent organizations. The presence of labels or validation by an entomologist can guarantee its effectiveness and safety.

What’s the most environmentally-friendly solution to mosquitoes?

There’s no single miracle method, but the most sustainable solution is often a combination of several approaches: eliminating roosting sites, planting natural repellents, installing bollards and diffusing essential oils. All these solutions respect biodiversity and are harmless to humans.