keep mosquitos away from your Patio and Outdoor Kitchen

How to keep mosquitos away from your patio and outdoor kitchen


7 minute read



How to keep mosquitos away from your Patio and Outdoor Kitchen naturally and effortlessly may seem impossible but it can be done to create a resort style backyard and kitchen that you actually feel comfortable and want to be in.

Creating an idyllic resort style backyard is a dream for many homeowners, especially for those with coastal properties. However, the presence of mosquitos can quickly turn this dream into a nuisance. To maintain the serenity and functionality of your outdoor space, it's essential to adopt easy yet effective strategies that effectively keep mosquitos away. In this article, we will explore various methods, that are permanent solutions including the use of outdoor screens, strategic fan selection and placement.  These methods offer a permanent in-place solution without the constant use of insect repellents, to create a mosquito-free environment.

With our methods, products and recommendation for use, your mosquito problems will diminish substantially and make outdoor entertaining easy and pleasant for yourself and guest.

Understanding the Mosquito Problem

Mosquitos are more than just a minor inconvenience; they can pose health risks by transmitting diseases. The coastal environment, with its warm and humid conditions, often creates a perfect breeding ground for these pests. Therefore, taking proactive measures to prevent their presence is crucial for the enjoyment and safety of your outdoor kitchen space.

Outdoor Screens: A Barrier Against Mosquitos

The Role of Outdoor Screens

A standard requirement to keep mosquitos away from your patio and outdoor kitchen that is highly effective is the installation of outdoor screens. However, many people do not realize there are numerous selections in outdoor screens.  Modern decorative screens (pictured below) add a high-end look to your outdoor space.  These screens act as a physical barrier, preventing mosquitos from entering your outdoor patio and kitchen area. They come in various designs and can be customized to fit the aesthetic of your space while providing the necessary protection.

Types of Outdoor Screens

  • Retractable Screens: These are versatile and can be easily retracted when not in use. They provide flexibility and do not obstruct the view when the kitchen or patio is in use (Pictured below)

  • Fixed Screens: Ideal for homeowners seeking a permanent solution, fixed screens are robust and provide continuous protection. However, fixed screens can feel rather claustrophobic in certain situations. 

  • Motorized Screens: Offering convenience, motorized screens can be controlled remotely, making them an excellent choice for those seeking modern solutions.

  • Decorative Screens: Add a touch of unexpected elegance to keep mosquitos away from your  Patio and Outdoor Kitchen with a decorative screen as shown below.

Screen selections are available at Riviera Outdoor Décor   All outdoor screens are custom made. Please allow 6-8 weeks for order and installation

Decorative Screens that add an upscale design aesthetic to keep mosquitos away from your patio and outdoor kitchen
Outdoor Screens that are Retractable and Motorized along with Coastal Outdoor Fans that are engineered correctly offer the perfect solution to keep mosquitos away from your Patio and Outdoor Kitchen


Installation Considerations

When installing outdoor screens, consider the following:

  • Material Durability: Opt for screens made from materials that can withstand coastal conditions, such as corrosion-resistant aluminum or stainless steel.

  • Mesh Density: A finer mesh will provide better protection against smaller insects without compromising airflow. Samples should be supplied to you at your initial meeting. A word of warning about black, it will attract a lot of sun and consequently heat.

  • Although screens are an added benefit to your outdoor room to prevent mosquitos, intense sun or wind- some of your guest may need additional air circulation with coastal outdoor fan.  Remember, not all outdoor fans can move air equally well to keep you comfortable.  At Riviera Outdoor Décor, we recommend only one kind of outdoor fan to significantly move air and withstand coastal conditions. 

Utilizing Fans to Deter Mosquitos

How Fans Help

Mosquitos are not good fliers and consequently do not hold up under strong wind conditions. Therefore, outdoor fans that move a good amount of air and keep you cool are a practical and effective solution for keeping mosquitos away. The breeze created by fans makes it difficult for mosquitos to navigate, thereby reducing their presence in your outdoor kitchen and patio area. Helpful hint:  keep your screens down and fans on- especially at night, to keep mosquitos from resting in your porch or outdoor room. 

Strategic Placement of Fans

The second most important layer to keep mosquitos away from you patio or outdoor kitchen is the strategic placement and selection of the correct outdoor ceiling fans. At Riviera Outdoor Décor, there is only one outdoor ceiling fan we recommend.  

Strategic selection and placement of outdoor celling fans is crucial for effective air movement in an outdoor space. This is the reason we have an engineer review the placement of each fan and the number of fans needed at Riviera Outdoor Décor. 

  • Ceiling Fans: Installing ceiling fans in your outdoor kitchen can create a constant breeze, deterring mosquitos effectively.

  • Portable Fans: These can be strategically placed around the cooking and dining areas to maximize mosquito deterrence and keep you cool at the same time.

  • If you have high ceilings exceeding  9' we recommend additional coastal outdoor fans at mid point.

Choosing the Right Fans

  • High Velocity: Opt for fans with high-speed settings for maximum effectiveness.

  • Weather-Resistant: Ensure that the fans are designed to withstand coastal outdoor conditions, especially in coastal areas.



 In order to keep mosquitos away from your patio and outdoor kitchen the best solution is to add outdoor ceiling fans that are designed and engineered for your patio and outdoor kitchen combined with outdoor screens.


Insect Repellents for Outdoor Kitchens

Natural Repellent Options

For those who prefer eco-friendly solutions, there are several natural mosquito repellents that can be integrated into your outdoor kitchen design:

  • Citronella Plants: Planting citronella around your kitchen area can help repel mosquitos naturally.

  • Essential Oil Diffusers: Use diffusers with oils like eucalyptus, lemongrass, or lavender to create a mosquito-repelling atmosphere.

Chemical Repellents

In the event the mosquito population is just too much,  consider using chemical repellents:

  • Mosquito Coils and Lanterns: These can be placed around the perimeter of your kitchen area to keep mosquitos at bay.

  • Spray Repellents: An application of spray repellents on surfaces can provide an additional layer of protection.

Designing Resort-Style Backyards

Incorporating Mosquito Control in Design

A well-designed backyard should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional in keeping pests away. Here's how to incorporate mosquito control into your design:

  • Water Features with Filtration: If including water features, ensure they have proper filtration systems to prevent stagnant water, which attracts mosquitos.

  • Strategic Landscaping: Use plants that repel mosquitos and incorporate them into the landscape design.

Lighting Considerations

  • Yellow Lights: Using yellow or warm lights can help in reducing mosquito attraction as they are less appealing to these insects compared to bright white lights.

Long-Term Mosquito Management

Regular Maintenance

  • Inspect and Repair: Regularly inspect your screens and fans for any damage and repair them promptly to ensure continuous protection.

  • Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in your outdoor kitchen to prevent mosquitos from being attracted to food scraps and waste.

Professional Pest Control

Engaging professional pest control services can provide an additional layer of protection, especially during peak mosquito seasons. They can offer customized solutions tailored to your specific location and needs.

Conclusion

Creating a mosquito-free outdoor kitchen requires a blend of strategic planning, thoughtful design, and regular maintenance. By integrating outdoor screens, utilizing fans effectively, and employing both natural and chemical repellents, you can ensure that your outdoor kitchen remains a serene and enjoyable space. Whether you are designing from scratch or enhancing an existing space, these strategies will help you achieve a resort-style backyard that is both beautiful and functional. By prioritizing mosquito control, you can transform your coastal property into a haven of relaxation and culinary delight.

At Riviera Outdoor Décor, we specialize in Coastal Outdoor Living with Resort Style Backyards that you feel comfortable to be in.  Contact us today and let us create the backyard that feels like your personal resort to escape to.


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