Buzz Off: How to Keep Bugs Out of Your Sukkah

If you're wondering why mosquitoes, bees, and other bugs love the Sukkah so much , the answer is pretty simple: we bring the feast, and they bring the curiosity. The Sukkah – especially one full of  tasty dishes  , juicy grape juice, and honey for challah – has all the right aromas to attract bugs. But don’t worry, you won’t have to share your meals with them. Let’s dive into some tips and tricks to make your Sukkah a bug-free zone! 

Many an experienced Sukkot-goer swears by spray mosquito barriers. This spray is often applied around the Sukkah right before Sukkot, creating a mosquito-free zone that lasts the whole holiday. While it does have a faint smell, many find it barely noticeable. Simply spray around the perimeter and let the invisible barrier work its magic.

Some folks turn to mosquito netting, an effective solution that can surround your Sukkah without invalidating the structure, as long as the netting doesn’t cover the  Schach  (the Sukkah roof covering). And some Sukkah models even come with an  in-built magnetic screen door to keep out the critters, so you don’t need to make any last-minute trips to Home Depot for that mosquito netting.

Dryer sheets (yes, you read that right) can work wonders. You can tape them inside your Sukkah and, in true  Sukkot spirit,  label them as the “Ananei HaKavod” ( Clouds of Glory ). Not only does this keep the mosquitoes and bees away, but it also adds a touch of fun to the decor. You could also try spreading lemongrass – another natural repellent – on the floor of your Sukkah. Though it may only be effective for a few hours, it’s a great conversation starter and a subtle defense against flying invaders.

Bees seem to dislike dryer sheets as much as mosquitoes do, so hang a few around the Sukkah to deter them. Some swear by the Bounce brand, and for very bee-infested areas, try one sheet for every 10 cubic feet. Adjust based on the level of bee interest.

• Since many Sukkot celebrations  involve dipping challah in honey, bees might be drawn to your Sukkah’s sweet aroma. Keep honey jars covered and only open them for quick dips. Alternatively, switch out honey with less bee-attracting options, or keep it in a sealed container when not in use.

Bees and many flying bugs aren’t fans of wind, so a simple fan in your Sukkah could be the answer to your prayers. The airflow deters insects from settling in your space, allowing you to enjoy your meals in peace. Plus, the fan will keep you cool and comfortable on warmer days (and our Open Air Sukkah is also perfect for helping you beat the heat!)

If a single solution won’t do the trick, why not try a mix of bug-busting strategies? Here’s a winning combination:

1. OFF Candles or Torches: These emit smells that most bugs hate. Just be careful about placement – keep them outside or near the entrance to prevent any mishaps.

2. Bug Zapper: This handy tool attracts bugs with light and zaps them on the spot. Place it near the Sukkah, not inside, as the constant buzzing might be a little distracting.

Distraction Trap: Set up a small dish with sugar water a few feet away from the Sukkah. This will lure insects away from your space and keep them occupied elsewhere.

In cases of extreme discomfort, such as heavy rain or severe cold, Halacha (Jewish law) allows a person to forego eating in the Sukkah, based on the concept of mitzta'er (exemption due to discomfort). But do mosquitoes count as enough discomfort to eat indoors?

According to the Shulchan Aruch (a major code of Jewish law), pesky insects, known as “yitushim” (gnats, small flies or mosquitos), are indeed considered a source of discomfort. If mosquitoes or other bugs are making it unbearable to enjoy your meal, you may be  exempt from eating in the Sukkah. However, before retreating indoors, try using some of the tactics mentioned above to improve the situation! 

In rare cases, if you find your Sukkah still hosting a tiny bug party, remember that Sukkot is about embracing the outdoors to remember the protection afforded to the Israelites by G-d as they wandered through the desert. As a last resort, keep some insect repellent wipes nearby for a quick solution if things get too intense. And if all else fails, take it with a sense of humor – maybe even tell your guests they’re experiencing a truly ‘authentic’ Sukkot!

So, as Sukkot approaches, you can now be confident you’re ready to tackle any bug-related challenges. With a mix of citronella candles, dryer sheets, mosquito netting, and even the occasional fan, you’ll be more than prepared to keep the bugs out and the joy in. So go ahead, pour the grape juice, dip that challah in honey (carefully!), and savor each moment in your beautifully bug-free sukkah. Chag Sameach!