EN
Do Mosquitoes Like Light? Myths & Facts
You’ve likely encountered the notion that switching off your bedroom lights deters mosquitoes, or conversely, that leaving them on attracts these unwelcome guests. But is there any truth to this? Do mosquitoes like light, or is it simply a widely circulated myth? We’re here to set the record straight.
Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Light?
In simple terms: No, mosquitoes are not drawn to light.
Mosquitoes possess limited visual acuity and struggle with navigation in bright illumination. This explains their reduced activity during daylight hours, in contrast to their increased presence at dusk and night. Therefore, you can confidently keep your night light on while enjoying a book in bed.
What Actually Attracts Mosquitoes?
If light isn’t the culprit, what factors lure mosquitoes into your personal space? Here are the primary attractants:
The attraction of body heat is also scientifically proven. (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Metabolic Output: Certain individuals are more susceptible to mosquito attention, a phenomenon linked to their metabolic rate. During sleep, your body expends energy, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). CO2 is a potent mosquito attractant. Consequently, a higher metabolic rate translates to increased CO2 production, making you a more appealing target. Furthermore, larger individuals, who typically burn more energy, exhale more CO2, thereby attracting more mosquitoes.
This is supported by research showing that carbon dioxide is a major attractant for mosquitoes. (Source: National Institutes of Health)
Olfactory Signatures: Mosquitoes boast an exceptional sense of smell, capable of detecting odors from distances of up to 70 meters. The human body emits approximately 300 distinct chemical compounds and amino acids. Dietary habits, medication use, and genetic predispositions influence your unique body odor. Mosquitoes can discern these scents and exhibit preferences. While some fragrances repel mosquitoes, others attract them. Unfortunately, this aspect is largely beyond your control. If your scent profile is appealing to mosquitoes, you’re more likely to experience bites. This attraction is primarily driven by the female mosquito’s need for amino acid-rich blood to support egg production.
The keen sense of smell of the mosquito is confirmed by various sources. (Source: American Mosquito Control Association)
Thermal Footprint: In addition to CO2 and body odor, mosquitoes are attracted to body heat. A higher body temperature during sleep increases your vulnerability to mosquito bites. As your body temperature naturally decreases during sleep, mosquitoes tend to target you more during warmer periods when your body heat is elevated.
Effective Mosquito Bite Prevention
Fortunately, several strategies can effectively deter these pests. Installing window screens or utilizing a bed canopy offers a physical barrier. The fine mesh of a bed canopy prevents mosquitoes from reaching you.
Ensure the bed canopy is properly sized to avoid gaps that allow mosquito entry. Given mosquitoes’ attraction to body odor, using a DEET-based repellent is highly recommended. The repellent’s scent effectively deters mosquitoes.
Additionally, a lukewarm shower before bedtime can help regulate your body temperature, making you less appealing to mosquitoes.
Nusarah Mosquito Nets: Your Protection Solution
If you’re seeking protection from mosquito bites and require a bed canopy, Nusarah is your ideal destination. We offer an extensive collection of bed canopies, all handcrafted and sustainably produced.
Our inventory includes round and square mosquito nets, suitable for single and double beds.
Browse our webshop to discover the perfect bed canopy for your home. We have everything from round bed canopies and square mosquito nets to bed canopies for both single and double beds. So you can enjoy a night’s sleep without buzzing. Feel free to take a look at our web-shop and find the bed canopy that suits your interior!
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov/
- American Mosquito Control Association: https://www.mosquito.org/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/
