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DIY Mosquito Net

Mosquitoes are a nuisance to any camper. Not only do they cause itchy bites and red welts, but they carry and transmit dangerous diseases like malaria, encephalitis and the West Nile virus. As a precautionary measure, anyone living or traveling through areas where they may be exposed to mosquitoes should carry a mosquito net. Fortunately, mosquito nets are inexpensive and fairly easy to make. All you need to create your own mosquito net is some mesh nylon or polyester fabric, a clothesline and some duct tape.

Things You'll Need

15 by 15 yards of 8 millimeter mesh polyester or nylon fabric
15 foot clothesline
Duct tape
Safety pins

Instructions

- 1
  Stretch the clothesline above the bed or area that you wish to protect from mosquitoes. The line should stretch horizontally above the bed, running parallel to the bed. Fasten both ends of the clothesline above the bed with duct tape, rope or nails. You can run the clothesline between trees, walls, the ceiling, or any other nearby tall structures.
- 2
  Drape the mesh netting across the clothesline so that it extends to the ground on all sides of the bed.
- 3
  Layer the ends of the mesh netting so that the netting completely encloses the bed. Remember that mosquitoes can crawl through any tiny opening in the fabric, so pay particular attention to the areas where the mesh fabric meets the clothesline.
- 4
  Use the safety pins to seal the layers and to keep the netting in place on the clothesline.
- 5
  If necessary, weigh down the ends of the netting with rocks so that it will not blow in the wind.

Insects & Science