How to Keep Bugs Off Wet Paint: Low-Cost Tricks from a Painting Pro

When you’re painting your deck, a piece of patio furniture, or spray painting a craft outside, the last thing you want to deal with is bothersome bugs. If insects get stuck on the surface, it can ruin a paint job when you need to remove the debris or go with yet another coat. A better way: Avoid the pests causing problems in the first place! We got a painting pro to share how to keep bugs off wet paint so you can get the job done without a hassle.

What attracts bugs to paint?

It can be frustrating when you’re trying to let a coat of paint dry outside only to find little annoying insects have gotten stuck to the fixture or item! Many factors can contribute to why the bugs end up in paint.

First, it may be the color! Bright hues like yellow, white and orange are particularly appealing (for the same reason bugs go after a bright porch light). Reflective colors can also cause insects to wander the way of your fresh paint.

While there are theories that some bugs are drawn to paint because of certain chemicals, it has yet to be proven. But if you happen to be painting outside, you’re bound to deal with at least a few of the pests getting stuck to a fresh coat simply because they’re busy flying around where you’re working.

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Thankfully, there are a number of steps you can take to prevent unwanted insects from ruining a painting project. Try one of the solutions described below!

How to keep bugs off wet paint

Choose the right time

Sometimes all that it takes to avoid a bug-infested coat of paint is to adjust when you’re bringing out the paintbrush! The key is to work on your project during a time of day when bugs are less likely to be flying and crawling around. “If you are painting outside, try to paint during cooler parts of the day when bugs are less active,” says Anthony Kulikowski , owner of Five Star Painting of South Bend , a Neighborly Company. “This can be early in the morning.”

Even the time of year can have a significant impact on the problem. Whenever possible, try and paint during cooler seasons, he adds. You’ll be more likely to encounter unwanted insects in the middle of July than on a cooler autumn day.

Pick a less popular location

Choosing the right time of day can help, but it can only do so much if you’re setting yourself up to work in a spot that makes you a bit of a target. “Avoid painting near plants and water where bugs are commonly active,” advises Kulikowski.

When bugs are busy pollinating your garden nearby or making a pit stop at a bird bath or fountain, they’re more likely to fly into your fresh coat of paint. Of course, some projects (like painting a fence) are impossible to avoid in certain areas. In that case, your best bet is to try other tactics.

Make the perimeter unappealing

One of the easiest ways to keep pests away from an outdoor project? “Create a perimeter by spraying bug repellent around the area of the item you plan to paint,” he suggests.

The chemicals or natural oils in your spray will act as an invisible barrier. The smell will deter any approaching bugs long before they get stuck in your paint.

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Block bug access

Physical barriers are another to bug-proof your area, especially if you want to avoid using chemicals. Kulikowski recommends setting up a tent of a screen around the area you plan to paint. This works particularly well if you've brought a smaller item outside to cover it and it doesn't take up much space.

Also smart? “Set up fans to create air movement to repel the bugs,” he adds. Some bugs, like mosquitoes, can’t fly in even the slightest of wind, so they’ll stay clear. (Which keeps you bite-free too!)

See how the airflow created from a bubble machine has a similar effect:

Seal any containers

It can be particularly annoying when you go to dip your brush into your paint only to see a dead insect floating on the top of the liquid. For that reason, Kulikowski says it’s best to make sure you cover your paint containers when you aren’t actively using them.

If you’re working with a paint tray, consider covering it with foil or plastic wrap. This can be removed as needed when you need to get more paint on your brush or roller. Plus, it will help keep other debris from falling into the liquid before application!

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