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Vector Control District
Vector Control District

Wide Area Larvicide Spraying Treatments for Invasive Aedes Aegypti Mosquito

For additional information on scheduled wide area larvicide spraying treatments for the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito, please click here.

Removing Aedes Mosquito Eggs

Aedes aegypti mosquito eggs are tough and can survive without water for a very long time. They will hatch when they get wet and the weather is just right.

These mosquitoes usually lay their eggs in containers like buckets, flower pots, plates under plants, toys, and pet bowls. To stop the eggs from hatching, make sure to scrub and clean containers you keep outside that can hold water.

Materials needed for Aedes egg removal - gloves, goggles, brush and bottle of bleach

Materials Needed

  • Goggles
  • Gloves
  • Scrubbing tool of choice - a sponge, rag, or brush will work.
  • A container of your choice to pour your cleaning solution.
  • Dish soap OR household bleach
  • Clothes you don't mind getting dirty.

Preparing Cleaning Solution

There are two cleaning solutions you can use to clean containers with - hot water mixed with dish soap OR undiluted household bleach. Below are detailed steps of how to prepare each solution, depending on which you prefer.

Undiluted Bleach Solution

Step 1: Put clothes on you don't mind getting dirty. Remember bleach can stain clothes.

Step 2: Put on goggles for eye protection.

Step 3: Put on gloves for skin protection.

Step 4: In your container of choice, pour enough bleach for you to be able to dip your scrubbing tool into.

Hot Soapy Water Solution

Step 1: In the container you choose, add about a teaspoon of dish soap to hot water and stir it well until it’s fully mixed.

Prepare to Remove Eggs

Image of some one scrubbing a bucket to remove mosquito eggs. Subject is wearing googles and gloves for personal protection.

Step 1: Dip your scrubbing tool into the cleaning solution you've prepared.

Step 2: Scrub the inside and outside of the containers carefully, dipping your scrubbing tool back into the cleaning solution whenever you need more.

Step 3: After scrubbing, turn the item upside down and leave it in the sun for 24 hours. Only rinse it until you are ready to use it.

Step 4: If you won't be using the items again, make sure to store them inside or in a covered area.

Step 5: Check your yard for areas or items that can collect water at least once a week and dump out any water found.

Step 6: Scrub items as often as you can throughout the year to keep them clean and free of water.