We’ve got the newest solutions to the age-old mosquito problem

Keeping the Mosquitoes Out

Let’s start with the basics. Mosquito nets aren’t new, but they’ve come a long way from the bulky ones of our growing up years. Ceiling-hung bed nets, for instance, are light, easy to hang, and look almost dreamy when draped over a bed. They don’t need power, sprays, or much thought—you just sleep peacefully under them. They’re especially useful during power cuts when plug-in devices stop working.

Then there are removable mosquito nets for windows, which are surprisingly effective if you like fresh air but hate flying visitors. Some stick on with Velcro, some slide like blinds, and many are now designed to blend right into your interiors. The roller versions are especially neat—just pull them down when you need them and roll them back up when you don’t. Simple, clean, and out of the way.

A Better Way to Burn Coils

Most Indian homes have turned to mosquito coils at some point, especially during the evenings. They do the job, but they’re not exactly pleasant to look at, and half the time you’re balancing them on some old steel dish or broken stand. Portable coil holders have fixed that. These are often made of metal or ceramic, that hold your coil safely, catch the ash, and don’t look like a health hazard sitting in your living room. Some look like tiny lanterns or sculptures. They’re safe to use around kids and pets too, and easy to move from room to room.

Personal Shields

Not everyone likes applying creams or sprays, especially when you’re indoors. That’s where repellent patches come in. You can stick them onto clothes, cushions, baby strollers—even the side of your bed. They don’t touch your skin, don’t smell bad, and can last a whole evening or longer. They work particularly well if you move between spaces a lot—say, from your desk to the balcony or from the kitchen to the sofa. You get the protection without needing to think about it too much.

Let the Scent do the Work

Lately, there’s been a shift towards natural repellent sprays and cleaning products that keep mosquitoes away without any strong chemical odour.

Room sprays made with essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, or lemongrass are easy to use and leave your room smelling fresh. Spray them before bed or in the evening when mosquitoes are most active. Deet-free mosquito repellent room spray from Phool is a good option. Floor cleaners with repellent properties are even more subtle. Just switch your usual cleaner with one of these, and you’re not only disinfecting the house but also keeping mosquitoes out from corners, under furniture, and along damp surfaces where they tend to hide. Mosquito repellant oil by Repello gives protection for up to 4 hours.

Mosquito Repellent Tech

If you like a more hands-off approach, electronic repellents are worth a look. These gadgets don’t take up much space, and most of them just need to be charged or plugged in. Low effort, high reward.

UV light traps quietly attract mosquitoes and trap them inside a chamber. No zapping noise, no mess. Great for bedrooms or nurseries.

Ultrasonic repellers plug into your wall socket and emit a sound mosquitoes dislike (but humans can’t hear). You won’t even notice they’re working—until you realise you're no longer getting bitten.

Electric zappers work best in open spaces like balconies or verandahs. You hear the occasional zap, but it’s satisfying when you know it’s working.

A More Permanent Fix

Now, here’s something clever, Asian Paints’ Apcolite Insect Shield. It looks and feels like regular wall paint, but it’s designed to repel mosquitoes from the surfaces they typically rest on. Once painted, your walls become less inviting to them, reducing the chances of bites while you sleep or relax. What’s great is that it doesn’t change the colour options or finishes you want. You can paint your child’s room or your bedroom just the way you like—and gain an invisible layer of protection in the process. It’s a longer-term solution, and one that doesn’t interfere with your daily habits.