Mosquitoes can be a nuisance when spending time outdoors, especially in the evening. Their bites can leave itchy welts on skin that take days to go away. When trying to avoid mosquito bites, one common question is whether light or dark clothes are better as a deterrent.
Do mosquitoes prefer dark or light colors?
There has been some debate over whether mosquitoes are more attracted to dark or light colors. Some people believe dark colors, like black, will attract more mosquitoes because they stand out against lighter backgrounds. Others think pale colors like white and khaki are more attractive to the insects.
Several studies have been conducted to determine if mosquitoes have a color preference:
- A study from the Journal of Medical Entomology showed Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were equally attracted to dark and light colors. There was no difference in landing rates on different shades.
- Researchers in Kenya found that Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, which transmit malaria, were most attracted to black and red but still readily bit people wearing other colors.
- A study in the Journal of Insect Science found that darker cotton fabric and black stockings attracted more Aedes albopictus mosquitoes than lighter control fabrics.
Based on these studies, darker colors like black, red, and navy blue seem to attract mosquitoes slightly more than very pale or bright colors. However, mosquitoes will still readily bite exposed skin no matter what shade of clothing is worn.
Do certain fabrics deter mosquitoes?
Beyond color, the type of fabric may also influence how attractive clothing is to mosquitoes. Some materials are thought to provide better bite protection than others:
- Tightly woven fabrics like denim may offer more of a barrier to mosquito bites than loose knits which have more gaps and holes.
- Thicker fabrics can prevent mosquitoes from being able to bite through clothing as easily.
- Synthetic fibers like polyester may be more repellent to mosquitoes than natural fibers like cotton.
A study published in the Journal of Insect Science compared different clothing materials. Researchers found that denim, linen, and polyester deterred mosquito biting more effectively than cotton overalls and knit t-shirts. The tightly woven denim had the strongest protective effect.
Do mosquito repellents on clothing work?
In addition to fabric, mosquito repellents can be applied to clothing for added bite protection. Here are some common options:
- Permethrin is an insecticide that can be sprayed on clothing. It binds tightly to fabric and lasts through several washes. Permethrin is highly repellent to mosquitoes and other insects.
- DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is the active ingredient in many popular repellent sprays. It can be applied directly to skin or clothing.
- Picaridin is a synthetic repellent similar to DEET. It is odorless and safe to apply on clothing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends pre-treating clothes, shoes, tents, and gear with permethrin for prolonged protection against mosquito bites when spending time outdoors.
What clothing features help prevent mosquito bites?
Along with fabric, color, and repellent application, other clothing features can help minimize exposed skin and deter mosquito bites:
- Long sleeves and pants provide coverage of arms and legs.
- Closed shoes like sneakers are better than sandals.
- Tight cuffs and collars reduce gaps where mosquitoes can access skin.
- Socks worn with pants prevent bites around the ankles.
- Loose fitting clothes provide less skin tightness for mosquitoes to bite through.
Hats with good coverage around the head, face, and neck are also beneficial. Mosquito head nets offer even more comprehensive protection.
Should you wear light or dark clothes?
While very dark colors like black and navy may attract slightly more mosquitoes, no color will completely deter them from biting exposed skin. The differences in attraction between shades are relatively minor.
More important than color is choosing tightly woven, breathable fabrics that provide ample coverage of the body. Synthetic materials like polyester or nylon tend to be more repellent and can be pre-treated with insecticide permethrin for lasting effects.
To summarize recommendations on clothing:
- Wear loose fitting long sleeves and pants when possible.
- Choose tightly woven fabrics like denim or linen over loose knits.
- Pre-treat clothes and outerwear with permethrin for extra repellency.
- Apply an EPA registered repellent like DEET or picaridin to exposed skin.
- Opt for closed shoes over sandals to cover feet and ankles.
Rather than fixating on color, focus more on coverage. Both light and dark colors can be effective as part of protective layering against mosquitoes.
Natural mosquito repellents
In addition to commercial insect repellents, there are some natural options that may help deter mosquitoes:
- Citronella oil – Derived from citronella grass, this plant-based oil has been registered as an insect repellent by the EPA since 1948. Research shows moderate effectiveness against mosquitoes.
- Lemongrass oil – Has demonstrated repellent effects comparable to low concentrations of DEET.
- Clove oil – Shown to provide over 90% protection against mosquito bites for up to 3 hours in lab studies.
- Thyme oil – Significantly reduced mosquito landing rates in one study when applied to exposed body parts.
- Tea tree oil – Evidence for repellency is limited but it may deter mosquitoes due to its strong odor.
- Catnip oil – Studies show catnip oil can effectively repel several disease-carrying mosquito species.
These natural oils can be applied to clothing or skin for a chemical-free repellent option. Most need to be reapplied frequently for ongoing effectiveness.
Mosquito bite prevention tips
Here are some other tips to prevent mosquito bites when spending time outdoors:
- Apply EPA registered insect repellents like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Wear properly pre-treated permethrin clothing and gear.
- Stay indoors during peak mosquito hours around dawn and dusk.
- Use mosquito netting over strollers, beds, or outdoor seating areas.
- Make sure window and door screens are in good condition.
- Eliminate sources of standing water around your home.
- Use oscillating fans which may help keep mosquitoes away.
- Burn citronella candles or oil diffusers outdoors.
- Consider professional mosquito misting system installation.
With some smart preventative measures, it’s possible to avoid mosquito bites in virtually any environment. Be proactive about using repellents, protective clothing, and other deterrents.
Conclusion
Mosquitoes are not picky when looking for exposed skin to bite. While very dark colors may attract them slightly more, light versus dark clothing is not definitive in preventing bites. The most important factors are fabric type, coverage of the body, and use of repellents. Tightly woven fabrics, loose fitting clothes that cover the arms and legs, pre-treated permethrin applications, and topical repellent sprays create the most effective barrier against mosquitoes trying to access skin and feed on blood.
Rather than focusing on light or dark shades, choose clothes that maximize coverage while staying cool and comfortable in warm weather. Use EPA registered repellents and insecticide treatments to enhance protection. With smart preventative measures, it’s possible to significantly reduce mosquito bites while spending time outdoors.
