A DIY mosquito trap is one effective way to helpreduce mosquito populationsaround your property.

Get step-by-step instructions below for making DIY mosquito traps from a bucket and a bottle.

Research also shows its an ineffective approach.

closeup of a mosquito on a leaf with drops of water

Credit:arachi07 / Getty Images

You’ll find more effective, expert-recommended methods below.

These microscopic crystals are ingested by the mosquito larvae when they are feeding in the water.

Replace or reapply a Mosquito Dunk after 30 days, when it dissolves and becomes less effective.

The bottle traps work by “mimicking human breath, explains Tony O’Neill, author and popular YouTube gardener.

Get Rid of Stagnant Water

Female mosquitoes breed where there is standing water.

If you have awell-kept pool, mosquitoes typically dont hang out.

Mosquitoes usually do not breed in running streams or maintained swimming pools, says Markowski.

The combination of stagnant water and organic material creates an ideal oasis for females to lay their eggs.

Mosquitoes dont need much water for a breeding ground.

Markowski also advises eliminating breeding sites as much as possible.

Maintain Your Yard

Growing different types of plants creates biodiversity and helps withnatural pest control.

When you leave them unkempt, you may inadvertently be creating safe spaces for these unwanted pests.

Trim tall grass, bushes, and overgrown vegetation where mosquitoes like to rest, says O’Neill.

This reduces their hiding spots and makes your yard less attractive to them.

Cultivate a natural landscape by planting native plants, says Mizejewski.