We're a mosquito control company — so take our perspective with that in mind. But the evidence strongly supports professional barrier spray over DIY methods for meaningful, lasting mosquito reduction. Here's an honest breakdown of each approach. Part of our Ultimate Mosquito Control Guide.
Citronella Candles and Torches
Effectiveness: Low. Citronella products create a localized scent barrier that can marginally reduce mosquitoes near the immediate source — within about 1 metre of the flame. They have no residual effect and provide zero protection when the candle isn't lit. Research consistently shows citronella candles reduce mosquito landings by only 11–42% in the immediate vicinity, compared to 60–90%+ reduction with professional barrier spray.
Best use: As a supplement on a patio table while sitting directly beside it. Not a yard-wide solution.
DEET and Other Personal Repellents
Effectiveness: High for personal protection; zero for yard control. DEET, picaridin, and lemon eucalyptus oil repellents applied to skin and clothing are genuinely effective at preventing individual bites. The issue: they protect people, not yards. You still have a mosquito-infested backyard — you just won't get bitten while wearing repellent. This doesn't let your children play freely, guests to enjoy the patio, or your dog to move around without bites.
Best use: As a personal protection supplement when going into heavily infested areas (trails, near wetlands).
Consumer Backyard Foggers and Yard Sprays
Effectiveness: Moderate short-term. Consumer foggers and hose-end sprays can provide 1–7 days of mosquito reduction when properly applied. The limitations are significant:
- Much lower active ingredient concentrations than professional-grade products
- Require the homeowner to apply thoroughly and consistently
- No guarantee of proper coverage (missed resting sites reduce effectiveness significantly)
- Faster breakdown — typically effective for only a few days to a week
- Repeated DIY application adds up in cost and time over a season
Professional Barrier Spray
Effectiveness: High and sustained. Professional-grade residual insecticides applied by trained technicians provide the most comprehensive, longest-lasting mosquito reduction of any residential option. Key advantages:
- Higher active ingredient concentrations — more effective knockdown and longer residual
- Technician expertise — thorough coverage of all resting sites, including areas a homeowner typically misses
- Up to 30 days residual protection per visit
- Guaranteed results — BuzzSkito retreats at no cost if mosquitoes return within the protection window
The Bottom Line
For homeowners who want to actually use their backyard during GTA mosquito season, professional barrier spray is the only approach that reliably delivers a meaningful reduction in mosquito populations across the entire property. DIY methods are useful supplements — not substitutes.