How To Keep Bugs Away From Porch Light: 8 Simple Ways!

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The porch light is one of the most important fixtures in your home. It provides illumination for safety and security while also adding to the curb appeal of your house. However, it can also attract bugs, which can be a nuisance.

According to the report of the National Pest Management Association, American homeowners spent almost $5.5 billion dollars on pest control services in the year 2017 alone. 

So, It means that you’re not the only one struggling with this issue. But spending that much money on a pest control company is not the only solution to keep your porch light free from bugs.

On the other hand, you can take some simple and effective measures to keep the bugs away from your porch light. But what are those? That’s why you need to read this complete article. 

Because in this article I have shared 8 simple ways how to keep bugs away from porch light. Also, I have covered some tips and tricks to help you with this problem.

So Let’s Get Started!

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Why Do Bugs Congregate Around Porch Lights?

Porchlight attracts nocturnal insects, who are seeking out light sources in the darkness. The heat from the lightbulb also makes the porchlight an attractive source of warmth for these creatures. 

However, there are some bugs, like moths, that are actually drawn to the light because they mistake it for the light of the moon. In their natural habitat, moths use the moon to navigate. 

When they see a light source that is just as bright as the moon, they mistake it for their natural navigational aid and are drawn to it.

However, this can often be a fatal mistake, as the lightbulb is much too hot for the moth and will kill it.

That’s why sometimes these bugs are found dead around porch lights. So while they are attracted to the light, it ultimately ends up being fatal for them.

Also, this whole process may disturb your sleep if you are trying to sleep with the porch light on.

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8 Ways To Keep Bugs Away From Porch Light: Choose The Right One!

Bugs are a common nuisance around porch lights. While there are some effective ways to keep them away, choosing the right method depends on the type of bug you’re dealing with.

1. Use A Porch Light With A Bug Shield

A bug shield is a piece of hardware or an attachment that is placed over a porch light to keep bugs away. It can be made of metal, plastic, or another material, and usually has a mesh or screen-like surface.

But make sure to choose a bug shield that is specifically designed for the type of light you’re using. Otherwise, it may not work properly or could even be dangerous.

Because some shields can block light, make sure the one you choose is rated for the wattage of your porch bulb.

This will help ensure that your light still shines brightly enough to provide adequate illumination.

Also, it will keep the bugs away from being attracted to your light in the first place. However, it should be noted that not all bug shields are created equal.

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2. Install Yellow Or Orange Light Bulbs Instead Of White Or Blue

Color your light bulb according to the type of bug you want to keep away. For example, blue and white light bulbs attract moths, while yellow and orange light bulbs are less attractive to them.

It is happening because of the wavelength of light. The blue and white lightbulbs produce a shorter wavelength of light, which is more attractive to bugs.

While yellow and orange lightbulbs produce a longer wavelength of light, which is less attractive to them. However, this method is not foolproof. If the lightbulb is bright enough, some bugs will be drawn to it regardless of the color.

But if you’re looking for a general way to reduce the number of bugs around your porch light, colored light bulbs are a good place to start. Make sure to clean your light fixture regularly to keep it free of bugs and dust.

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3. Hang Some Plants Around Your Porch Light To Act As A Natural Repellent

Repellent is a substance that is used to discourage or prevent pests, such as insects or rodents, from approaching or coming into contact with something.

While they are available in different forms, such as sprays, gels, and granules, plants that give off a strong scent are also known to be effective at repelling certain types of bugs.

But when it comes to the bugs, if the repellent is natural then it means that it is not harmful to human beings and other animals. It is very important if you have pets or small children around the house.

Because sometimes the repellent can be very toxic and can cause serious health problems if they are inhaled or ingested.

So all you need is just hang some plants around your porch light and you will see the difference.

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4. Place A Fan Near The Light To Keep The Bugs Away

Fanning the bugs away is an effective, albeit temporary, solution to keeping them at bay. However, this method will only work as long as the fan is on.

But, if you don’t mind keeping the fan running, it can be a decent solution for light evenings spent on the porch.

Simply place a small fan near your light and enjoy bug-free porch time. Or if you have the ceiling fan on your porch, turn it on to low or medium speed to help keep the bugs away.

But make sure the fan is not pointing directly at you, as this will just blow the bugs in your face.

You can also try pointing it towards the plants or screens to keep the bugs away from you without them being blown in your face. So, keep the fan on and enjoy your evening.

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5. Put Up A Screen Or Netting To Keep The Bugs Out

Netting and screening is a type of cloth material that is often used to keep bugs away from porch lights. It is made of thin, intersecting threads that allow air and light to pass through but keep bugs out.

So simply start by surrounding your porch light with a screen or netting. This will create a barrier that bugs will have a hard time getting through.

But make sure to choose a material that is specifically designed to keep bugs out, otherwise, you might just be wasting your time.

Although mosquito netting will work to keep other types of insects out, it is not as effective against flying insects like moths. However, if the problem is with crawling insects like ants, this may be the perfect solution.

But keep in mind that screens and netting can be a bit of an eyesore. If you’re going for aesthetics, you might want to try another method.

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6. Add Some Citronella Candles To Your Setup

Citronella is a type of essential oil that is extracted from plants in the genus Cymbopogon. It has a strong, lemony smell that is known to repel bugs.

So, adding a few citronella candles to your porch light setup can help keep bugs away.

But, keep in mind that citronella candles need to be burned in order to work. So, if you’re not using them, they won’t be effective. Also, make sure to place the candles in strategic locations. 

For example, if you’re trying to keep mosquitoes away, place the candles around the perimeter of your porch. This will create a barrier that will make it harder for them to get to you. 

Don’t worry, though. Citronella candles are easy to find and relatively inexpensive. And, they can be bought online or at most stores that sell outdoor supplies.

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7. Spread Some Basil Leaves Around The Porch Light

Basil leaves are a type of herb that can be used to deter bugs from porch lights. They have a strong, minty smell that bugs don’t like.

You can either place the leaves directly on the light or put them in a sachet.

But make sure to change the leaves every few days, as they can lose their potency over time. Also, it may not be effective against all types of bugs.

So if you’re dealing with a specific type of bug, like mosquitoes, it’s best to try another method.

For example, mosquito nets and fans can help keep mosquitoes away from porch lights. The mosquito usually comes if you are living in a rainy place.

Or, you can also spread some garlic cloves around the porch light to keep the mosquito away.

Sometimes, you may also find some gecko near your porch light. The good news is, that geckos are actually beneficial as they eat bugs. So, if you find one near your light, you can just leave it be.

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8. Choose The LED Porch Light

LED stands for light-emitting diode. They are a type of semiconductor light source that emits light when an electric current passes through it.

One of the benefits of using an LED light is that it doesn’t produce as much heat as other types of lightbulbs.

This makes it difficult for bugs to be attracted to the light. So instead of using a traditional lightbulb, try an LED porch light to keep the bugs away.

This will also save electricity and help you save money on your energy bill. All you need to do is buy an LED porch light and screw it in. 

You can find these lights at most hardware stores or online. Or, you can convert your existing porch light into an LED light. Start by unscrewing the old lightbulb and then screwing in an LED bulb.

Make sure you get the right size so it fits snugly into the socket. Once you have an LED light installed, enjoy your bug-free porch light!

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Tips & Tricks For Keeping Bugs Away From The Porch Light

Bugs and insects both are naturally attracted to light. If you have a porch light, chances are good that you’ve also had to deal with your share of bugs hanging around it.

So here are some tips and tricks that you can use to keep the bugs away from your porch light, and make your outdoor space a little more enjoyable.

• Do Standing Water Away: If you have any puddles or other sources of standing water near your light, get rid of them. You can do this by either filling in the puddles or dumping out any containers that are holding water.
• Keep Your Light Clean: Another attractant for bugs is a dirty light. If your light is full of dead bugs, it’s going to attract more bugs looking for a meal. So make sure to keep your light clean, and free of any dead insects.
• Turn Off Your Light When You’re Not Using It: If you’re not using your light, there’s no reason to keep it on. By turning it off, you’ll not only save energy, but you’ll also make your porch less attractive to bugs.

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Wrap Up On How To Keep Bugs Away From Porch Light

Porch lights are a perfect place for bugs to congregate. They’re attracted to the light, and they can easily fly in and out of the opening.

While you may not be able to completely get rid of all the bugs, there are some things you can do to make it harder for them to gather around your porch light. 

We’ve outlined 8 different ways you can keep bugs away from your porch light – choose the one that works best for you.

Also, don’t forget to implement some of the tips and tricks we’ve shared for an extra layer of protection. Soon, you can sit back and relax on your porch, without being bothered by a single bug.

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FAQ: 8 Ways To Keep Bugs Away From Light Fixture

Keeping the bugs away from the porch light is a little bit difficult. That’s why many people just like you have lots of questions to ask. That’s why I have added some of them in this article to provide appropriate answers.