Mosquito Nets - More Information
Wedge Nets
Wedge Nets are generally the smallest and most compact - and hence the lightest and easiest to carry. They are also very easy to put up, and typically they only require one or two support points. They can be a bit warmer than some of the bigger nets though because of the smaller volume of air inside.
Best suited for lightweight backpacking, camping or temporary use in overnight accommodation.
Box Canopy Nets
Box Canopy Nets are the most spacious and comfortable nets - the large internal volume allows greater air circulation which helps to keep it cool inside. They require multiple support points to form the 'standard' 4-corner box shape but they can also be hung in several other configurations - eg a 2-corner ridge or wedge shape and even a rough bell shape from a single suspension point.
Best suited for indoor use in a permanent location, such as long term accommodation, a hotel or hospital.
Bell Nets
Bell Nets are a bit smaller inside than Box Canopy Nets but they can be much easier to hang as they only need one support. They sometimes use a circular spreader at the top to push the net out to create more internal space, but this can also make them a bit heavier and bulkier.
Suitable for both permanent and temporary locations (because they are easy to hang) and they are a good compromise between internal volume when in use and bulk and weight when packed away.
Pop Up Nets and Domes
Pop Up Nets and Domes are completely self contained without the need for any additional supports. Consequently, they can be used on beds, on the floor or on the ground outside - and the Pop Up frame can also provide support in windy conditions. Space inside the dome can be a bit limited, so they can get a bit warm sometimes if air movement is restricted.
Suitable for travellers where flexibility and versatility is important - particularly if you plan to sleep outside in an area where mosquitoes and other biting insects are a problem. However, they're not really suitable for light weight backpacking because of the extra weight and bulk of the Pop Up frame - a simple Wedge Net would probably be better.
Mesh Size
Mosquito nets can be made with various different mesh or hole sizes. This is important, because the size of the holes determines what size of insects are kept out and the ease with which air can flow in. Consequently, hole size is always a compromise between effectiveness and comfort in warm climates:
- larger holes make the net more breathable - and thus more comfortable - but larger holes also mean that more insects can get through and bite you.
- smaller holes will protect you from smaller insects - but they will also restrict the movement of air, making the net hotter and more clammy to sleep under.
Mesh sizes are usually quoted in holes per square inch, and typical values are as follows:
- 200 holes per square inch - relatively large holes - typically used for lightweight Wedge Nets - proof against mosquitoes and anything larger.
- 300 holes per square inch - a good compromise between protection and comfort - typically used for slightly heavier and more rugged nets (the holes are smaller so the fabric is stronger!)
- 400 holes per square inch - relatively small holes - typically used to protect against midges rather than mosquitoes in cooler climates where the reduced air circulation is less of a problem.
- 600 holes per square inch - very small holes - and hence a much tougher fabric. Typically used for making Head Nets and Midge Jackets where the extra strength is needed and the very fine mesh means that insects can't bite through the net to get at you when the net is up against your skin.
Treated and Untreated Nets
Generally, mosquito nets are available in three different formats - untreated, 'standard' treatment with an insecticide (typically Permethrin or Delthamethrin) and 'Long Life Impregnation'. Treatment can help to improve the effectiveness of a net because it will tend to repel insects away from the net and kill any insects that land on it and linger too long. Importantly, it can also help to deal with any insects that have made their way inside, either through the holes in the mesh, through a damaged part of the mesh or through a gap somewhere if the net hasn't been hung properly.
Typically, 'standard' treatment will remain effective for about 6 months whilst 'Long Life Impregnation' will remain effective for 2 or 3 years. However, if you wash a 'standard' net the treatment is no longer effective, whereas typically you can wash a net with 'Long Lasting Impregnation' 20 or 30 times.
Mosquito Net Treatment Kits
It is possible to treat an untreated net, or to retreat a 'standard' treated net using a Mosquito Net Treatment Kit. Typically, the treatment will then be effective for up to 6 months, depending on how frequently the net is washed after use.
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