Think you’re protected from mosquitoes and midges? You might be doing it all wrong

Summer is made for relaxing outdoors, catching up with friends and soaking up the fresh air – until midges and mosquitoes decide to join the party. These tiny biting issues thrive in warm, still conditions and can quickly turn a peaceful moment in the garden into an itchy frustration.  

Angharad James, Brand Manager at SBM Life Science, UK distributor of mosquito and midge protection brand Thermacell®, shares the five most common mistakes people make when it comes to keeping mosquitoes and midges at bay – and how to avoid them. 

Waiting until you’re already bitten 

“One of the most common mistakes people make is waiting until they’re already being bitten before thinking about protection. By the time flying biting pests are noticeable, they’ve often already settled into the area, and it becomes much harder to enjoy your time outdoors. Midges and mosquitoes are most active in calm, damp conditions, particularly at dawn and dusk, so it’s important you anticipate this and prepare your space in advance. Setting up your protection before guests arrive or before you sit down for the evening means you can relax from the outset, rather than constantly reacting to bites.” 

Overlooking damp areas and breeding spots 

“Midges and mosquitoes are drawn to moisture, so ignoring damp spots around the garden can unintentionally make your outdoor space more inviting to them. Standing water in plant saucers, buckets, watering cans, clogged gutters or poorly drained areas can all contribute to breeding conditions. Even small amounts of water can be enough. Regularly emptying containers, improving drainage where possible and refreshing features like birdbaths regularly can help reduce the opportunity for midges to multiply close to where you’re entertaining.” 

Wearing the wrong clothing 

“Both insects are strongly attracted to dark coloured clothing, particularly black, navy and dark green, as well as high contrast shades that stand out against the landscape. Choosing lighter tones that blend more naturally with your surroundings can help reduce attraction. In midge-prone areas, wearing long sleeves, trousers and even a hat offers added protection, and opting for lightweight, breathable fabrics help you stay comfortable in warmer weather.” 

Not considering where you sit 

“Positioning plays a bigger role than many people realise. Midges and mosquitoes tend to hover in shaded, sheltered areas with very little airflow, particularly near dense shrubs, hedges or overgrown planting. Choosing to sit right beside these areas can increase your chances of being bitten. Trimming back foliage, allowing sunlight in and positioning seating in slightly more open or breezy spots can help make your garden less attractive to biting insects and more comfortable for you.” 

Failing to create a reliable zone of protection 

“Even with good preparation and maintenance, midges and mosquitoes can still appear, which is why establishing a reliable area of protection is essential. That’s where Thermacell® helps you stay one step ahead. Designed to protect the space around you, rather than relying solely on traditional repellent methods such as sprays and candles, it offers a more convenient way to manage biting insects outdoors. 

“The device gently heats a small repellent mat, releasing an active ingredient into the air that helps deter midges and mosquitoes from the surrounding area. Once fully activated, it can cover up to 20m², making it well suited to patios, garden seating areas and balconies, without the need for open flames or constant reapplication.” 

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For more information about Thermacell® and to explore the full product range, visit www.seezon.co.uk/brand/thermacell/. 

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Editors notes

For over 25 years, Thermacell® has been helping people enjoy the outdoors without the irritation of mosquitoes and midges. Trusted by millions worldwide, Thermacell® is a leading brand in portable, heat-activated mosquito protection, offering an effective, scent-free and contact-free alternative to traditional repellents such as sprays or candles. Using innovative technology, Thermacell® devices create a protective zone of up to 20m² that helps keep biting insects away, including invasive species such as the Asian tiger mosquito. Compact, convenient and easy to use, the range includes solutions for every outdoor setting, from garden and patios to camping and adventure travel. Designed for comfort and proven performance, Thermacell® delivers reliable, long-lasting protection so users can make the most of their time outdoors.