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When warmer weather approaches, the bugs often come out and want in.

They are automatically drawn to window screens when you have the windows open, wanting to be close to the light you probably have on inside your home.

Here are a few ideas to help you keep bugs off your screen doors and windows.

Use an Insect Repellent

An easy way to keep bugs away from the window screens, especially during bug season, is simply by spraying them with insect repellent (link to highly rated, popular sprays.)

There is a variety of natural and store-bought insect sprays that you can use on the outside of the windows.

These contain smells that the bugs just don’t care for, so they won’t go anywhere near the window screen.

You will often need to spray the screens on a daily basis during heavy bug season, such as during the spring and summer months, or when it gets especially humid.

Spraying at night might be better if you have more difficulty with bugs attracted to your indoor lights.

Rub Citronella Oil On the Screens

If the bug spray you are using isn’t working great, you can try a natural option like citronella oil.

Many bugs hate the smell of it and will leave your screens alone. You can put some of the oil on a paper towel, then apply it to the window.

You can also try adding some drops to a spray bottle, then spraying the window screens.

Just be careful not to get it on your hands, as it is difficult to wash off. There are also some citronella candles that perform the same function, which you can place on outdoor furniture close to where your windows are located.

Deter Bugs From Coming Around

You can also keep bugs from your home entirely by deterring them. One great way to do this is by not keeping any open trash or food near your home’s structure.

This means not leaving pet food outside when it is time to call it a night, and keeping lids on all outside garbage cans and recycling bins.

It is also good to keep no cardboard or wood close to the home, as this attracts pests like spiders and carpenter ants.

Some insects are drawn to your house due to the nearby trees and bushes, so try to keep those from your home.

In addition to these helpful tips, keep your window screens clean to keep bugs from being more attracted to them. If all else fails, call a pest control company for assistance.