Bugs Around Lights in the Rainy Season Driving You Crazy? Here Are 5 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Them

As monsoon brings relief from the heat, it also invites a swarm of flying pests, simple home remedies can help keep them at bay

With the arrival of the rainy season, households are experiencing an uptick in insect invasions, especially during the evening hours. These tiny intruders, often flying in swarms are drawn to light sources and can quickly become a nuisance. Not only do they buzz relentlessly around bulbs and tube lights, but their broken wings also end up scattered across rooms, furniture, food, and clothing, creating a mess that’s hard to ignore.

Experts and traditional remedies offer several practical and natural solutions to control this seasonal issue:

Neem and Cow Dung Smoke

A tried-and-tested rural solution, the smoke from burning neem leaves and cow dung is known to be highly effective. Both ingredients possess strong anti-bacterial and insect-repelling properties. Light a small fire using these items and let the smoke permeate areas where insects tend to gather. The smell drives them away almost instantly.

Insect Traps

Specially designed insect traps for flying bugs can help reduce their numbers indoors. These are easily available in markets and can be placed near windows, balconies, or lights where insects gather the most.

Camphor Smoke

Camphor acts as a natural insect repellent. Light a small piece of sandalwood or mango wood and add camphor to the flame. Once it starts producing smoke, extinguish the fire and allow the smoke to fill the room. The scent stuns the insects and drives them out.

DIY Air Freshener Spray

A homemade spray using baking soda, eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, and lemon juice can also act as a natural repellent. Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and use it around the house, especially near lights and windows where insects are most active.

Turn Off Lights Temporarily

Flying insects are strongly attracted to light. Turning off indoor lights for a brief period—especially in the evening—can help lure them outside. Alternatively, keeping exterior lights on while turning off interior ones can draw them out.

Preventive Steps

• Close windows and doors before turning on indoor lights in the evening to block insect entry.
• Keep surroundings clean and ensure no food is left uncovered.
• Remove standing water near the home, as it’s a breeding ground for many insects.
• Place marigold flowers or tulsi (basil) plants indoors or near windows; both have natural insect-repelling properties.

By following these traditional and practical steps, families can enjoy the refreshing rains without the unwanted company of buzzing pests.