Since moving to warmer climes in Europe, we’ve become quite adept at dealing with bugs and mosquitoes. One of the first things we had installed in our house in northern Istria, were insect blinds at every window. These were much needed, as mosquitoes in particular, were pretty rampant in this part of the world. We also discovered the BEST mosquito repellent (and post-bite spray) called “The Wall”, a moisturising protective lotion, based on plant principles, that naturally repels these critters. It is a refreshing protective lotion, made from Ledum palustre (also known as marsh tea or wild rosemary), and essential oils of basil, geranium and lemongrass, which naturally repel mosquitoes. I’ve only ever found this in farmacias in Italy, but it is available to buy online. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s by far the most effective repellent (and after-bite spray) I have ever used. Smells lovely too, which is always a bonus with these things.

But, as good as this lotion is, it’s not the best summer repellent we’ve discovered. That title goes to an electric bug zapper, from a Spanish website, called Create. This anti-mosquito lamp works with an ultraviolet light wave frequency emission system. It has a 360° air intake, so insects are attracted to the lamp from any direction. Once this happens, a silent suction fan absorbs the mosquitoes and flies inside, where they get trapped. It doesn’t generate noises or smells, and, unlike other repellents, this device does not work with chemicals. It has a timer function, so you can either leave it on continuously, or programme it to automatically switch off after 8 hours or 12 hours. It’s quite a stylish little object too, white and boxy, with a light function, which is very handy – and with a pull out tray at the back, where you can look in wonder at all of the extinguished mosquitoes, flies and bugs. We’ve been really surprised by how many are actually trapped and we have noticed a considerable decline in the number of bites we have had. In fact, it is only when the zapper isn’t on, that we seem to get bitten, so I would say that’s a good sign it’s working and very effective.

This zapper is currently on sale via the website, and retailing at €24.95, the normal price being €29.95. We only have one of these currently, but as our windows in the house we are renovating won’t really accommodate insect blinds, we’re going to invest in three or four more, so that we definitely have all of the bedrooms covered, when guests stay. And because they are very portable, we can then move them around the house to where they are most needed. And, we can finally say adios to these annoyances…

This is not a sponsored blog post and we have not received any form of payment, from either company. Both the mosquito repellent and the bug zapper were purchased by ourselves – we’re just happy to let people know about them, as we’ve found both products to be very effective in hot, summer weather.

Create Image : www.create-store.com