They’re back. While newly freed rambunctious children are the cause of annoying turmoil for many people this summer, there is one pest that takes the cake: insects. While many insects are good for the garden and keep other bugs at bay, some people, like this author, just can’t stand them.
Try to release bugs back into nature, but if you can’t, these gadgets will send them packing.
Bug zapper racket
The best way to kill a bug is to fry it. Yes, fry it. Since bug zappers are kept outside, this nifty tennis rackets has an electrical force field that zaps and kills anything that comes into contact with it. It can zing you with a bit of a shock as well, so keep out of reach of children.
This nifty racket (shown above) is available all over at Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, Walmart and Amazon and range from $5 to $25.
Cricket traps
An unwanted visitor, these oversized spider crickets or Camel Crickets, came over from Asia and have been inundating the south shore of Long Island for years. Cricket season is at an all-time high and spells disaster for those living near the water or with damp, moist basements. However, these nasty buggers can’t resist the scent of bananas. Insect glue traps are best for catching and killing these beasts that are attracted to a distinct scent.
Available at ACE Hardware or your local Home Depot or Lowes, simply place them around the edges of a room (basements, garages and dens are popular spots) and toss out when the trap gets full. There’s no killing them so traps are your best bet, although a
visit from the exterminator can’t hurt.
Mosquito net
Unless you live in a tropical area and need one for your bed, mosquito nets are a great outdoor accessory to keep bugs away from your food. Mesh food covers come in all colors and sizes and keep out pesky mosquitoes and other bugs who are eager to get into your picnic.
Citronella candles
The classic patio table staple, citronella candles have come a long way from the normal yellowed stench of chemicals. Now in different shapes, colors and scents, citronella candles have become a hot décor item for your backyard. Disguised in buckets, planters, mason jars and torches, the candles still work to keep bugs at bay, but are now more bearable for you and your guests to be around.
