Mosquito bites are thoroughly annoying. The bit is painful, irritating and sometimes the treatments for them can be just as bad. There are, however a number of home remedies you can use which are inexpensive. In fact, chances are you already have the ingredients necessary right in your home.

Here are a few that are very effective:

Ice Packs

Ice will reduce welling and numb the area to reduce pain and itching. There will be no risks of medications if this plan is used.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

Add a small amount of vinegar to baking soda, and then rub it into a paste. Dab it directly onto the bite. It will form a barrier of protection so the bite can heal. It will sanitize the bite and create a protective seal so the bite can heal. An extra plus - this paste can also be used as a safe and effective cleaner all around the house.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste is creamy and loaded with germ killing power. Use it to seal up the bites by dabbing a little on each one.

Aspirin

Instead of taking the aspirin, put it directly on the bite. It works much better. Just crush up an aspirin tablet and mix it with water until you have a paste. Plus, just like many of the other cures, it blocks out air and helps speed healing. Remember to never give children aspirin by mouth.

Tape

Tape is a lot less messy and sticky and just as effective. Use a disinfectant first to be sure the germs are out before you seal it up.

Whatever remedy you use, remember to reapply it after you shower or swim. Like any other injury, it will take a while to heal.

While these home remedies may be great for taking away the pain, swelling, and itching of a mosquito bite, they’re not going to reduce your risk of getting the debilitating and possibly fatal diseases you might contract from a mosquito. While most people know about diseases like malaria and West Nile virus, there are many other illnesses spread through mosquito bites.

The best way to prevent disease from mosquito bites is to prevent the bite from ever happening. The good news is that there are home remedies to repel mosquitoes as well as treating their bites. Here are two:

Bleach

Dilute a little bleach in a cup of water and soak it. Don’t apply it full strength. Diluted, it is gentle enough toe leave on your skin. You will be sure to keep additional mosquitoes away without sticky sprays.

Vitamins

Some studies have shown that vitamins like zinc and the B vitamin thiamine chloride, will keep mosquitoes away and less attracted to you. Just remember that it may take months for it to build up enough to be effective.