What string lights keep bugs away?

When looking to decorate an outdoor space, string lights are a great option to add ambiance and a cozy feel. However, one downside to hanging lights outside is that they can attract bugs and insects. To avoid this issue, there are certain types of string lights designed to repel bugs.

LED lights

LED string lights are less likely to attract bugs than traditional incandescent bulbs. LEDs do not emit ultraviolet light like incandescents, which bugs are attracted to. So simply choosing LED over incandescent string lights can help deter bugs.

Yellow LED lights in particular are less attractive to insects than white LEDs. So opting for yellow or amber colored LED string lights is recommended to discourage bugs from swarming around them.

Lights with covers

String lights that have plastic covers over the bulbs are another good option for keeping away bugs. The covers prevent bugs from reaching the light source and getting zapped. There are many string light styles that feature bulb covers, from globe lights to flame lights.

Lights treated with citronella

Some string lights are treated with natural citronella oil, which has an aroma that repels mosquitos, flies, and other bugs. The citronella creates a protective barrier around the lights. Just take note that the effects of citronella oil will wear off over time, so these lights will need to be replaced after a season or two.

Lights with yellow wavelengths

As mentioned above, yellow lights deter bugs more than other colors. Some string lights are designed specifically to emit wavelengths of yellow light that bugs find unappealing. These lights utilize special coatings on the bulbs to filter out other colors and emit pure yellow light.

Scents that repel bugs

Certain scents are good bug repellents, such as lemongrass, mint, and garlic. Some solar powered string lights are infused with these natural scents to create an aroma zone around the lights that keeps bugs away. Essential oil cartridges can also be added to string lights to achieve a similar mosquito and insect repelling effect.

Lights with fans

You can find string lights that have built-in electric fans on each bulb. The fans spin around the lights creating an annoying air current that bugs don’t like flying around. The fans make it uncomfortable for insects to swarm near the lights.

Ultrasonic repelling lights

Ultrasonic waves are inaudible to humans but can be irritating and disorienting to many insect species. Some string lights emit high frequency ultrasonic sound waves along with the light. This deters bugs from the area around the lights using sound instead of scent or air currents.

Lights with bug zappers

Bug zapping string lights have electrified metal grills around each bulb. When a bug lands on the grill, it completes an electrical circuit and gets zapped with a small jolt. These lights actively eliminate bugs rather than just deterring them. They’re very effective but do require cleaning off zapped bug remains occasionally.

Solar powered lights

Solar string lights charge up from the sun during the day and turn on at night. Some solar lights have added bug repelling features like yellow wavelengths, citronella aroma, or ultrasonic waves. Opting for solar powered lights with these properties can help keep bugs away without running electrical cords.

Lights with repellent rings

Some string lights have decorative rings that encircle each bulb. Certain rings are embedded with natural repellents like citronella oil or geraniol powder. As the bulbs heat up, the repellent gradually diffuses into the air creating a protective bug barrier around the lights.

Red or blue tinted lights

Research shows that insects are least attracted to red and blue light. Meanwhile, they are drawn to white and yellow light. Choosing string lights with a distinct red or blue tint can help make your lights less appealing to bugs.

Lights elevated off the ground

For any style of string lights, hanging them at an elevated height can help reduce bugs. Insects and other creepy crawlies are much more abundant closer to the ground level. Position your string lights in trees, on roofs, or high up on walls or posts to keep them further away from bugs.

Lights with tight covers

String lights with plastic covers that fully seal around each bulb can prevent bugs from reaching – and being attracted to – the light source. Tight, sealed covers keep bugs out and don’t allow insect-drawing UV light to escape. This creates a protective barrier between the bulbs and bugs.

Lights on a timer or switch

You can make your string lights less appealing to bugs by only having them on at certain times. Lights on a timer or switch allow you to control when they’re on. Bugs are most active in the warmer evening hours after sunset. So you can avoid these peak bug times by setting your lights to turn off by 9 or 10 pm.

Insecticide-coated string lights

Some companies make bug repelling string lights by coating the cords and bulbs with a non-toxic insecticide like permethrin. The insecticide deters bugs from landing on the lights. These chemically treated lights provide bug defense for a season or so before needing reapplied.

Lights with soapy water

An old home remedy for repelling insects involves mixing a small amount of liquid dish soap into water and coating light bulbs with the soapy solution. The soap’s smell and residue help keep bugs away. Just reapply the soapy water regularly to maintain effectiveness.

Conclusion

There are many clever options for string lights designed to repel those pesky bugs we dislike swarming around our outdoor lighting. From citronella-infused to ultrasonic to bug zapping designs, you can find string lights geared specifically to dissuade insects. Picking lights with repellent properties or features like sealed covers, elevated hanging heights, and selective on-off timing can all help make your string lights less attractive to bugs.

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