As summer fades and early fall arrives, mosquitoes tend to be particularly active in Beijing, turning the city into a battleground where people confront these tiny nuisances. This ongoing conflict takes place in various settings, such as bedrooms, courtyards, parks, and hutongs. Defense strategies range from long-standing family traditions to high-tech gadgets; each method embodies a blend of ritual and efficacy.
The fight against mosquitoes isn’t novel, but this year, it warrants special focus due to several imported cases of chikungunya in the city. Here, we examine various methods to tackle these pests during their peak activity in the closing weeks of the season.
Traditional Defenses
Growing fragrant herbs is a well-respected tactic. Planting mint, basil, and citronella around balconies or the edges of courtyards can effectively mask human scents, making these spaces less attractive to mosquitoes. These herbs serve as gentle repellents while also adding greenery to apartment windows. For generations, residents of Beijing have relied on remedies that evoke both nostalgia and protection. Burning mugwort (艾草 àicǎo) is a long-standing practice thought to ward off pests, with its strong smoke wafting through courtyards on humid nights.
In terms of natural solutions, lemon eucalyptus oil (柠檬桉叶油 nínɡménɡ ānyè yóu) proves to be a strong mosquito repellent, offering protection durations similar to certain synthetic options. A quick search on Taobao reveals effective sprays and essential oils. Advocates of peppermint oil (薄荷油驱蚊液 bòhe yóu qūwén yè) suggest it as well, but with caveats; it's most effective when applied warmed, which can be uncomfortable in the heat, and may irritate sensitive skin. Diluting it with a neutral carrier oil provides a safer alternative, making it a cautious yet still feasible choice.
Floral water sprays and coil solutions are other classic remedies, although their effectiveness can be debated. For many, these solutions are less about assured victory and more about continuity: utilizing what previous generations employed, connecting one sweltering Beijing summer to another.
花露水 huālùshuǐ, the traditionally fragrant “floral water,” serves as both a perfume and mosquito repellent. One favorite is Liushen Floral Water (六神花露水 liùshén huālùshuǐ), easily identified by its green bottle and cooling menthol effect. It can be applied directly to the skin to relieve bites or lightly sprayed over the body as a preventive measure.
Another well-known option is LONGLIQI Floral Water (隆力奇花露水 Lónglìqí huālùshuǐ), an herbal liquid that has long provided cooling relief from the heat and deterred mosquito bites. Many also use it to sprinkle on bed linens for a refreshing sensation. Its distinctive herbal aroma evokes fond memories of sticky summer childhoods.
Furthermore, mosquito coils (蚊香 wénxiāng) are a common sight in courtyards and hutongs. The Lanju Mugwort Mosquito Coils (揽菊艾草蚊香 Lánjú àicǎo wénxiāng) are especially favored for their herbal scent and extended burn time. Each coil can smolder for hours, generating a protective smoke barrier that deters even the most persistent intruders. While the scent may not appeal to everyone, for many Chinese individuals, it evokes feelings of nostalgia tied to late summer evenings.
In addition to chemical solutions, appropriate clothing also plays a role. Dark, contrasting colors attract mosquitoes, so opting for light and loose-fitting apparel is advisable to enhance visibility and airflow. It's also beneficial to avoid floral-scented soaps and lotions, as mosquitoes are particularly drawn to these fragrances. Neutral or coconut-fragranced products offer more subtle protection.
Modern Weapons
Today, people have access to a variety of modern mechanisms to combat mosquitoes. The electric mosquito swatter (电蚊拍 diànwénpā) is perhaps the most gratifying innovation. The satisfying crack of static when the swatter connects with a target, accompanied by a small spark, offers a significant sense of accomplishment.
For those who prefer methods devoid of smoke or sticky residues, plug-in mosquito repellent vaporizers are now a popular choice. These compact devices warm either a mat (蚊香片 wénxiāng piàn) or a liquid refill (蚊香液 wénxiāng yè), releasing an almost invisible protective barrier against mosquitoes throughout the night. Their silent, odorless operation makes them perfect for use in bedrooms and children's rooms. Simply plug one in before sleeping, and you can drift off without the worry of mosquito interruptions. There are even smart repellents that connect to USB ports or sync with mobile apps, offering sleek designs and algorithm-driven mosquito control.
Lastly, for those needing
The transition from summer to early fall can often be one of the busiest periods for mosquitoes.