Mosquitoes can be more than just a nuisance – they can spread dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, Zika, and malaria. That’s why having a reliable mosquito control company treat your property is so important. But with so many options out there, how do you know which mosquito control company is the best for your needs? We’ve researched dozens of mosquito control companies across the country to help you find the most effective, safe, and affordable services.
What to Look For in a Mosquito Control Company
When researching mosquito control companies, keep the following criteria in mind:
Effective Mosquito Treatments
The company should use treatments that are proven to effectively control adult mosquitoes and larvae. This includes EPA-registered insecticides and biological controls like BTI. Fogging is effective for quickly knocking down adult mosquito populations. Meanwhile, barrier sprays treat vegetation and other mosquito harborage areas.
Licensed and Insured
The company should be licensed in your state to apply pesticides. They should also carry liability insurance to cover any potential damages or accidents. This protects you from liability.
Experience
Look for companies with years or decades of experience controlling mosquitoes. They’ll be familiar with local mosquito species and treatment challenges. Experienced techs can also provide proactive mosquito control versus just responding to problems as they arise.
Customer Reviews
Choose a company with overwhelmingly positive customer reviews. This indicates they deliver effective mosquito control and provide good customer service. Beware of companies with no reviews or consistently poor feedback.
Environmentally Responsible
The company should use EPA-registered, environmentally responsible products. Many also use natural options like mosquito fish versus only relying on insecticides. They should strive to minimize chemical use.
Free Inspection and Quote
A reputable mosquito control company will provide a free, no-obligation inspection and quote. This allows them to assess your property’s unique needs. Be wary of companies that give quotes without seeing your property first.
Responsive Customer Service
Look for great communication and responsive customer service from any potential mosquito control vendor. They should be ready to address any questions or concerns you have before, during, and after service.
Satisfaction Guarantee
Choose a company that stands behind their mosquito treatments with a satisfaction guarantee. This ensures that if their services don’t get rid of mosquitoes as promised, they’ll come retreat your property for free.
Flexible Service Plans
The company should offer flexible service options to suit your budget and needs. This may include one-time treatments, regularly scheduled barrier spray service, targeted treatments for events, and more.
By keeping these factors in mind as you research providers, you can zero in on the most professional, effective mosquito control companies in your area. Let’s explore the top mosquito control vendors across the country.
The Best National Mosquito Control Companies
These large mosquito control vendors have the experience and resources to serve wide geographic regions:
Mosquito Joe
Mosquito Joe is one of the country’s most recognized mosquito control franchises. They now have over 200 franchises serving hundreds of cities across 35 states. Their technicians are well-trained to provide customized mosquito treatments using advanced products and application methods.
Mosquito Joe’s services include barrier sprays, special event treatments, mosquito misting systems, and all-natural options. Their technicians receive ongoing training and support from Mosquito Joe University. Franchise owners have deep roots in their local communities.
The company guarantees a noticeable reduction in biters after the initial treatment. If you aren’t satisfied, they’ll come back and retreat for free. Mosquito Joe franchises have earned thousands of 5-star online reviews for delivering effective, affordable mosquito relief.
Mosquito Authority
Mosquito Authority is another leading mosquito control franchise company in the U.S. They now have around 150 franchises operating in over 300 markets. Their certified technicians use an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to mosquito control. This combines multiple chemical and natural treatment options for a strategic solution.
Mosquito Authority’s services include barrier spraying, mosquito misting systems, flea and tick control, and mosquito traps. Their mosquito control experts inspect properties, identify trouble spots, and create customized treatment plans. The company also offers a no mosquitoes guarantee and will retreat for free if you aren’t satisfied.
Mosquito Squad
Mosquito Squad provides residential and commercial mosquito control services through 130+ franchises across the country. Their certified technicians use an effective 5-step process focused on prevention, larviciding, and targeted adult mosquito treatments.
They offer a variety of spray services, mosquito misting systems, tick and flea treatments, mosquito traps, and all-natural options. Mosquito Squad also guarantees a noticeable reduction in biters within 14 days or they’ll come back for a free retreat. Customers frequently give their franchises 5-star reviews.
Mosquito Hunters
Mosquito Hunters provides mosquito control solutions across 6 states, including California and Nevada. Their services include barrier spraying, misting systems, bee-safe treatments, and tick control. Mosquito Hunters uses military-grade thermal imaging to identify mosquito hot spots on properties during inspections.
The company has a satisfaction guarantee – if mosquitoes aren’t significantly reduced after their treatment, they’ll treat again for free. Technicians are certified in mosquito control applications. The company provides free estimates with customized quotes based on each property’s needs.
Skeeter Shield
Skeeter Shield is a national mosquito control provider operating in over 25 states. They focus on all-natural mosquito treatments using products like garlic oil, cedar oil, and liquid BTI. This makes them a good option for environmentally conscious homeowners who want to avoid harsh chemicals.
In addition to natural mosquito sprays, Skeeter Shield offers mosquito misting systems, tick and flea control, mosquito traps, and yard fogging. Their mosquito control experts inspect each property thoroughly before designing a customized natural solution. The company provides service guarantees as well.
Top Regional & Local Mosquito Control Companies
In addition to the national chains above, many excellent local and regional mosquito control companies exist across the U.S. Here are some of the top local mosquito control vendors by state:
California
- Adapco – Family-owned company serving Northern California since 1990. Uses Airomist disinfecting treatments, barrier sprays, misting systems, and mosquito traps.
- Clark Pest Control – Provides eco-friendly mosquito treatments across Southern California. Rated #1 pest control company in California by Pest Strategies.
- Negative Jon’s Pest Control – Popular provider in the Sacramento area. Offers mosquito fogging, misting systems, tick control, and flea treatments.
Florida
- Massey Services – Leading pest and mosquito control provider in Florida. Offers mosquito barrier treatments, targeted adulticiding, misting systems.
- Truly Nolen – Trusted mosquito control company serving both Florida coasts. Uses latest treatments like barrier sprays and misting systems.
- Sunstate Pest Control – Family-owned company providing mosquito relief in the Tampa Bay area for over 25 years.
Texas
- MosquitoNix – Top-rated mosquito control servicing the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area. Specializes in mosquito treatments using all-natural essential oils.
- Mosquito Hunters – Trusted mosquito control company operating in Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and across Texas. Offers thermal imaging inspections.
- Mosquito Joe of Greater Austin – Part of the Mosquito Joe franchise network. Provides effective mosquito treatments for Central Texas homeowners.
Illinois
- Mosquito Hunters – Services Chicagoland area. Uses thermal imaging and targeted liquid barrier treatments for mosquito control.
- Mosquito Squad – Trusted mosquito control franchise serving homeowners in Chicago suburbs with barrier sprays.
- Clarke Mosquito Control – Leading mosquito abatement district protecting Northern Illinois communities for over 50 years.
Georgia
- Arrow Exterminators – Provides mosquito control across Georgia. Family-owned company in business for over 60 years. Offers mosquito misting systems.
- Atlanta Mosquito Squad – Part of the Mosquito Squad franchise network serving Atlanta metro area. Specializes in mosquito barrier sprays.
- Harris Pest Control – Residential and commercial mosquito control company serving Augusta area for over 55 years.
New York
- Mighty Mosquito Authority – Locally owned and operated mosquito control company serving Long Island. Offers all-natural mosquito treatments.
- ** Buffalo Mosquito** – Trusted mosquito control provider protecting WNY communities for over 85 years. Part of county’s mosquito abatement program.
- Staar Pest Control – Family-owned pest and mosquito control company serving the Hudson Valley since 1980.
New Jersey
- Premium Pest Control – Mosquito control company serving Central New Jersey. Uses barrier sprays and targeted mosquito fogging.
- Skeeter Buster – Provider focused on mosquito treatments across South Jersey. Has over 25 years experience.
- WillKill Pest Control – Offers mosquito control services using the latest products and application methods in Northern New Jersey.
What Makes a Good Mosquito Control Treatment?
Now that you know some of the top mosquito control companies across the country, let’s take a closer look at what makes an effective mosquito treatment.
The best mosquito control programs use an integrated pest management (IPM) approach that combines multiple chemical and natural treatment methods. Here are some of the most common components:
Inspection
A thorough inspection of the property allows the technician to identify potential mosquito breeding areas, harborages, and entry points. This ensures treatments are targeted for maximum effectiveness.
Larviciding
Treating standing water breeding sites with larvicides stops mosquitoes during their early life stages before they become biting adults. Larvicides include insect growth regulators and biological controls such as BTI.
Barrier Spraying
Applying a residual insecticide to vegetation and other areas where mosquitoes rest reduces adult populations. These barrier treatments provide long-lasting control as mosquitoes pick up lethal doses while resting on treated surfaces.
Fogging/Misting
Fogging or ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying quickly knocks down flying adult mosquitoes on contact. This provides immediate relief when entertaining outdoors. Automated misting systems provide ongoing control.
Traps & Attractants
Mosquito traps use visual cues, odors, heat, and CO2 to lure mosquitoes where they become trapped or come into contact with a killing agent.
Tick & Flea Treatments
Many mosquito control companies offer additional tick and flea treatments as part of a comprehensive pest control program. These treatments target ticks in yards, fleas on pets, and other biting pests.
Customer Education
Reputable companies also provide tips to customers on eliminating standing water, maintaining screens, using repellents, and other self-help strategies for managing mosquitoes at home.
By combining multiple treatment methods strategically and focusing on prevention, the best mosquito control programs deliver effective, long-term mosquito relief.
What Are the Safest Mosquito Control Methods?
Many homeowners prefer to use natural mosquito control options whenever possible to reduce chemical exposure. Fortunately, there are several environmentally-friendly mosquito treatments available:
BTI
BTI stands for bacillus thuringiensis israelensis – a natural soil bacterium lethal to mosquito larvae but safe for people, pets, and plants. It can be applied to breeding sites for natural control.
Essential Oils
Plant-derived oils like cedar, citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, garlic, and others repel adult mosquitoes. These actives are exempt from EPA registration requirements.
Mosquito-Killing Plants
Some plants like citronella grass, catnip, garlic, lavender, mint, marigolds, and more contain oils and compounds that deter mosquitoes in yards.
Mosquito Traps
Various mosquito traps such as the Mosquito Magnet use visual, odor, and heat cues to attract and trap mosquitoes without chemicals.
Mosquito Dunks
These donut-shaped BTI treatments provide 30 days of mosquito control in standing water. The active ingredient is toxic to larvae but safe for people, pets, wildlife, and plants.
Mosquito-Eating Fish
Mosquitofish and gambusia are natural mosquito predators that can be introduced to backyard ponds and water gardens to control larvae.
Bat & Bird Houses
Installing bat houses or bird houses attracts natural mosquito predators like bats, swallows, purple martins, and insect-eating birds to your yard.
Using natural options like these alone or combined with EPA-registered insecticides can reduce the need for harsh chemicals in mosquito management programs.
When is the Best Time to Treat for Mosquitoes?
Mosquito control is most effective when treatments are timed strategically. Here is an overview of when to treat:
Early Spring
This is the ideal time to get a headstart on mosquitoes by applying BTI and larvicides to any standing water breeding sites. Starting early interrupts the mosquito life cycle.
Late Spring
As temperatures warm and mosquito activity picks up, technicians will apply barrier sprays to vegetation, eaves, and other harborages. This prevents populations from reaching peak levels.
Summer
During hot, humid months, regular barrier sprays and targeted fogging provide active control of biting mosquitoes. Misting systems give ongoing relief.
Before Events
It’s smart to have your property treated before hosting any cookouts, parties, or other outdoor events where mosquitoes can ruin enjoyment.
After Heavy Rain
Excess rainfall can create new breeding habitats. A follow-up barrier spray treatment helps knock down any increase in mosquito activity.
Late Summer to Fall
This is when populations start to decline but Zika and West Nile virus risk is highest, making control important. Barrier treatments remain effective.
Only When Needed
Some homeowners opt for treatments only when they notice bothersome mosquito activity rather than preventing issues before they start.
The ideal mosquito control schedule will depend on your climate, problem severity, and activity patterns. Most companies suggest at least 4 seasonal barrier spray treatments to keep populations in check all year. Be sure to communicate your needs and expectations so the company can tailor a program accordingly.
How Much Does Mosquito Control Cost?
The cost of professional mosquito control will vary based on:
- Company/Location – Prices range from $75 per treatment to over $150 depending on the provider and area.
- Size of Property – Larger properties with more vegetation typically cost more to treat sufficiently than small urban lots.
- Treatment Type – Fogging is generally cheaper than full barrier sprays while tick/flea treatments add cost. Misting systems carry sizeable upfront installation fees.
- Frequency – Regularly scheduled treatments are usually cheaper per application than one-time treatments. Full-season packages offer the best rates.
- Special Challenges – Heavily wooded lots, lots bordering water, and extensive ornamental planting beds that provide mosquito habitat may cost extra to treat sufficiently.
To get an accurate estimate for your property, request quotes from multiple local mosquito control companies. Comparing rates along with reviews will help you find the best service at a fair price. Be skeptical of prices that seem too cheap, as this may indicate diluted or inadequate pesticide use.
Most homeowners spend around $80-$120 per barrier spray application for a typical 5,000 sq. ft. lot. For the best prices, look for special offers on bundled packages of 3, 4 or more regular treatments over the mosquito season.
DIY Mosquito Control Tips
For budget-conscious homeowners willing to invest some time, here are a few effective DIY techniques to try:
Drain Standing Water
Regularly empty or scrub out any containers, tires, clogged gutters, buckets, toys, pools, or other items that hold standing water where mosquitoes breed. Even small amounts allow larvae development.
Use BTI Dunks
Drop mosquito dunks or bits containing BTI in standing water that can’t be emptied, like ponds or bird baths. These provide 30 days of mosquito larval control in each habitat.
Apply Mosquito Dunk Granules
Sprinkle these BTI granules around moist shady areas, storm drains, and areas of standing water to kill developing mosquito larvae.
Use Insect Growth Regulators
IGR products like Mosquito Bits and Mosquito Dunks prevent larvae from maturing, breaking the mosquito life cycle. They can be applied to lawns and gardens where mosquitoes breed.
Install Mosquito Traps
Various propane-powered mosquito traps like the Mosquito Magnet lure mosquitoes in with scent, carbon dioxide, heat, and other attractants and then trap them.
Apply Garlic/Citronella Sprays
Essential oil insecticides derived from garlic, citronella, peppermint, and other plants provide contact mosquito control when applied to lawns, gardens, and patio areas.
Limit Outdoor Lighting
Reducing outdoor lighting from bulbs like CFLs helps limit the attraction of phototropic insects like mosquitoes to your yard at night.
Use Fans
Cooling fans on patios create air currents that make it harder for mosquitoes to land on humans. Fans also dissipate carbon dioxide and scents that attract them.
Wear Repellent
Apply EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outdoors to discourage mosquito bites.
DIY options may provide partial control and are useful additions to professional treatments. For best results, partner with a licensed local mosquito control company that has the experience and tools