Patio furniture is perfect for enjoying the outdoors while relaxing on a comfortable seat. Outdoor patio furniture is often made of wood, wicker, or metal, which are attractive to bugs.
If you’re not careful, these pests can quickly infest your furniture and create an unsightly and potentially dangerous situation.
Bugs can not only make your furniture look bad, but they can also cause it to break down over time. Besides, some bugs can transmit diseases.
It’s important to take steps to protect your patio furniture from bugs to avoid these problems.
Types of bugs that can infest patio furniture
There are different types of bugs that can infest patio furniture. The most common are spiders, ants, and bees.
These bugs can be a nuisance and make sitting on the furniture uncomfortable. They can also cause damage to the furniture over time.
Another type of bug that can infest patio furniture is the mosquito.
Mosquitoes can transmit diseases such as malaria and yellow fever. They can also cause skin irritation and itching.
The final type of bug that can infest patio furniture is the tick. Ticks are known to transmit Lyme disease, which can be serious if not treated properly.
Ticks also cause other diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis.
How to identify if your patio furniture has bugs
One of the telltale signs that you have an outdoor bug problem is finding bugs on your patio furniture.
Unfortunately, not all bugs are easy to spot, and a few varieties like to hide in tight spaces.
Bugs can be a real nuisance and can also be dangerous if they bite you.
So how can you tell if your patio furniture has bugs? Here are a few tips on how to identify if your patio furniture has bugs:
- Check the seams and joints of the furniture. If you see any bugs or eggs, that’s a sign that the furniture is infested.
- Look for signs of damage or feces. Bugs will often leave droppings behind, and you may also see evidence of chewing if they’ve been eating the furniture.
- Inspect the cushions and fabric covers. If there are any tears or holes, that could be where bugs are hiding.
- Smell the furniture. Some insects give off an unpleasant odor when they’re disturbed.
If you do find evidence of bugs, don’t panic! Bugs are a part of life and can be dealt with. Read on about what you can do to get rid of them:
How to keep bugs off your patio furniture
Summertime is the time for cookouts, pool parties, and enjoying the outdoors. However, if your patio furniture is covered in bugs, none of that is going to be enjoyable.
Here are a few methods for keeping bugs off of your patio furniture:
1. Clean patio furniture regularly
Bugs and other pests can make sitting on your furniture unbearable. You can keep these pests at bay by cleaning your patio furniture regularly and enjoying your summertime outdoors.
Here are a few tips on cleaning patio furniture and keeping bugs off it.
The first step is to determine what kind of patio furniture you have.
If your furniture is made of metal or plastic, you can clean it with a hose or a bucket of soapy water.
If your furniture is made of wood, you will need to use a cleaner that is specifically designed for wood.
Once you have chosen the appropriate cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
After cleaning your furniture, be sure to dry it thoroughly. A damp surface is an invitation for bugs to come and stay.
2. Use a patio cover
You can keep bugs off your patio furniture by using a patio cover. Patio covers come in various shapes and sizes, so you can find one that will fit your needs.
Patio covers work by creating a barrier between the bugs and your furniture. It keeps them from being able to land on or bite you or your guests.
Plus, patio covers help keep the furniture dry, prolonging its life.
If you’re looking for a way to keep bugs off your patio furniture, consider using a patio cover.
3. Use a bug spray
A bug spray is a great way to keep bugs off your furniture and away from you.
Bug sprays come in aerosol and pump-action forms and work by emitting a chemical that kills bugs on contact.
Different types of bug sprays are available, so it’s essential to choose one that is effective against the type of bug you’re trying to get rid of.
For example, if you’re trying to get rid of mosquitoes, you’ll need a bug spray that contains DEET.
Before using a bug spray, it’s important to read the product label and follow the instructions carefully.
It’s also essential to take precautions when using bug sprays, such as wearing gloves and avoiding contact with your eyes.
When using a bug spray, be sure to follow the directions closely. Some sprays should not be sprayed on certain surfaces, such as wood furniture.
It’s also important to avoid getting the spray in your eyes or mouth.
To apply the bug spray, start by spraying it directly on the bugs. You can also spray it around the area where you will be sitting or standing. It will help keep the bugs away.
Be sure to re-apply the bug spray if you get wet or if it starts to rain. The rain will wash away the spray, and the wetness will make it less effective.
4. Move furniture when necessary
Bugs like to hide in tight spaces, so if you move your furniture around every few weeks, you can help keep them away. It is also a good way to avoid getting pesky critters indoors.
Just be sure to move the furniture back to its original spot once the bugs have been eliminated, so you can continue enjoying your outdoor space bug-free!
5. Keep plants away from furniture
Bugs are naturally drawn to plants, so keeping them away from your furniture will help deter them. If you must have plants nearby, try planting them in pots rather than in the ground around the furniture.
6. Use citronella candles
Citronella candles are made from plants with a strong smell that bugs don’t like. The candles’ scent will help repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects.
It’s a good idea to place them around the edge of your patio or in any areas where you will be sitting or eating.
The best way to use citronella candles is to light them before you go outside. It will create a barrier of protection around you while you enjoy your time outdoors.
7. Use bug zappers
Bug zappers are one of the best ways to keep bugs off your patio furniture. They work by attracting bugs with a light and then killing them with an electric shock.
Bug zappers can be mounted on the wall or ceiling or placed on a stand.
If you are using a bug zapper to keep bugs off of your patio furniture, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, make sure that you place the bug zapper in an area where it will be effective. The light should be able to reach all of the areas where you see bugs.
Second, make sure that you clean the bug zapper regularly. The metal grid can become clogged with dead bugs, which will reduce the effectiveness of the zapper.
Finally, always use caution when using a bug zapper.
8. Use a fly swatter
Using a fly swatter, you can keep the bugs off your furniture and enjoy your time outside. Fly swatters are easy to use; just swat the bug, and it will die.
One downside to using a fly swatter is that it can be challenging to hit the bug.
If you’re having trouble hitting the bug, try using something to help you aim, like a bucket or a plant pot.
Another downside is that flies can sometimes be quick, so you may need to be fast when trying to swat them.
Overall, fly swatters are an easy and effective way to keep bugs off of your patio furniture.
They’re affordable and easy to use, so there’s no reason not to have one around during summer.
9. Use essential oils
Essential oils are natural extracts from plants that are effective at repelling bugs.
Peppermint, lemongrass, and citronella are the most effective essential oils for bug control.
To use them, mix a few drops of oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz them on your furniture.
The oils will deter bugs from coming near and will also help to repel them.
Another option is to make a natural repellent by mixing essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
Apply the repellent to your skin or clothing to keep bugs away.
Essential oils are a safe and natural way to keep bugs off your patio furniture.
10. Use plants that repel bugs
By using plants that repel bugs, you can keep them from ruining your time. Not only are they effective, but they also add color and life to your outdoor space.
Peppermint, lavender, lemon balm, and citronella are among the best plants for this purpose. Simply plant them near your furniture and enjoy a bug-free space.
While many of these plants can work well to repel bugs, lavender is perhaps the most popular option.
This fragrant flower smells great and is also known for its insecticidal properties.
Studies have shown lavender oil is about 10 times more effective at repelling bugs than DEET.
So if you’re looking for an all-natural solution, lavender is a good choice.
11. Seal any cracks or openings
It will prevent bugs from entering and making themselves comfortable on your furniture.
There are a few ways to seal cracks and openings. Some people use caulk, while others use weather stripping.
Both of these are effective at sealing up cracks and keeping bugs out. If you’re using caulk, choose a color matching the furniture. It will help it blend in and not be as noticeable.
If you’re using weather stripping, a few different types are available. The most common type is foam weather stripping. It’s easy to install and can be cut to fit any size opening.
12. Use a fan
Bugs are usually drawn to light and heat, so by using a fan, you are providing them with neither.
A fan will also help keep you cool while you’re sitting outside, discouraging bugs from coming near you.
If you see a bug near you, simply turn on the fan, and it will be blown away.
Many different types of fans can be used for this purpose, so choose the one that works best for you.
Conclusion
Summer is the time for backyard barbecues and outdoor entertaining, but your fun will quickly become a nightmare if your patio furniture is infested with bugs.
It’s important to take the necessary steps to keep your patio furniture bug-free all season long.
If you do notice any bugs on your patio furniture, be sure to take action right away.