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Which pests buzz by your ear while you’re trying to sleep?
If you live in Arkansas or Oklahoma, you’ve probably had to deal with pests buzzing by your ear while you were trying to sleep. These were probably mosquitoes, which are everywhere during summer months, and can also be found buzzing around during our long spring and fall seasons too. Mosquitoes are parasitic pests that feed on blood and are naturally attracted to us as a source of protein and iron that they need to reproduce and survive. Their wings emit a high-pitched whine that we can hear clearly when we try to sleep. Mosquitoes aren’t particularly attracted to ears, but they do tend to flock to our heads and faces because the blood is so close to the skin in these areas. Gnats might also buzz by your ear while you are trying to sleep.
How you can prevent pests from bothering you while you sleep
Burn mosquito repellent incense.
If you are camping or forced to sleep with your windows open due to an air conditioning problem, you can help drive away mosquitoes by burning special incense formulated with strong deterrent agents such as citronella. It is best to only burn incense while you are awake, so plan to do it right before bed to get the most lasting effects for your sleeping hours. It is also best to burn incense when you do have fresh air circulating so that you do not breathe in too much of the potent smoke, as it will irritate your lungs as well if you are overly exposed.
Mist your sleeping area with essential oils.
Essential oils such as lemon, eucalyptus, and peppermint can help you ward off mosquitoes, gnats, and other buzzing pests. Dilute these oils appropriately and spray them with a fine mister around your sleeping area, especially if you are camping or sleeping with windows open. This simple solution can go a long way toward helping you get a good night’s sleep, free of mosquitoes whining in the night. Just be careful not to spray strong scents directly onto your pillow–use something gentler, like lavender, instead. It’s also best to use organic oils when possible.
Shower right before bed.
Mosquitoes are especially attracted to sweat and bacteria, which can collect quickly, so it’s best to shower right before bed to cut down on your likelihood of attracting buzzing visitors while you sleep. Using a strongly scented natural soap, such as a tea tree or pine tar infused soap, will help you deter mosquitoes and other nighttime pests as well.
Use a mosquito net over your bed.
If all else fails, you can use a mosquito net to create a physical barrier between you and flying insects while you sleep. While this can feel a bit stifling or at the very least, inconvenient, it can be very effective in preventing buzzing pests from disturbing your rest.
West Termite, Pest & Lawn can help you deal with pest problems. Contact us today!
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