how do you fight mosquitoes naturally

Simple tricks to repel mosquitos naturally

• Use plants that are a natural repellent You can effectively repel mosquitos naturally from your garden, patio, and porch by growing certain plants. ...
• Use old coffee grounds ...
• Create your own breeze – install a fan (or more) ...
• Invest in citronella candles or torches ...
• Try burning mosquito incense ...
• Maintain a population of natural predators ...
• Natural homemade mosquito repellents ...
• Use mosquito-repelling essential oils ...

Full Answer

How do you repel mosquitoes naturally?

Natural and effective ways to repel mosquitoes

1. Citronella candles. Citronella candles are known to repel mosquitoes, and while some approve wholeheartedly about their effectiveness, others are leery.
2. Electric fan. Have you ever noticed that when it is windy, the mosquitoes aren’t biting? ...
3. Mosquito repelling essential oils. ...
4. Bug repellent luminaries. ...
5. Natural homemade mosquito repellents. ...

More items...

What is the best home remedy for mosquitoes?

The 21 Best Natural Home Remedies For Mosquito Bite Relief

1. Press an ‘X’. It may seem strange, but one of the most effective reliefs for mosquito bites is to press an ‘x’ over the bite.
2. Cold Pack or Ice. Applying something cold to your mosquito bite is another effective way to relieve any unwanted itching and help decrease inflammation.
3. Oatmeal. ...
4. Apple Cider Vinegar. ...
5. Honey. ...
6. Tea Tree Oil. ...
7. Salt. ...
8. Aloe Vera. ...
9. Baking Soda. ...

More items...

What is the best homemade mosquito repellent?

List The Best Homemade Mosquito Spray Reviews

• SUMMIT CHEMICAL CO 117-6 30OZ Mosquito Bits
• Repel 94109 HG-94109 Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Insect, 4-Ounce Pump Spray, 1 pack. ...
• Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

More items...

How to kill mosquitoes naturally?

15 Natural Ways to Get Rid of Mosquitoes.

• 1. Camphor. You probably know camphor better as a salve that people rub on their chests when sick with a cold. This pungent substance helps to open up ...
• 2. Garlic.
• 3. Coffee grounds.
• 4. Lavender oil.
• 5. Mint.

What kills mosquitoes the best naturally?

To naturally get rid of mosquitoes around the house, some popular methods include these:Burning coffee grounds.Lighting lavender candles.Leaving plates of sliced lemons or cloves around the house.Setting out mosquito traps.Spraying with essential oils such as lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus.

What smell do mosquitoes hate?

Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, clove, peppermint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary.

What is a natural way to get rid of mosquitoes outside?

GARDEN: How can you get rid of mosquitoes in the yard? Try these tipsEliminate standing water around your home. ... Move potted plants indoors. ... Place herbs and scented oils around your backyard. ... Scatter coffee grounds. ... Grow insect-repellent plants. ... Install a drain in planter boxes.More items...•

How do you keep mosquitoes away permanently?

How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes OutsideEliminate Sources of Standing Water. ... Try a broadcast treatment. ... Clear Debris From Gutters. ... Use Fans. ... Light Citronella Candles. ... Treat Ponds or Water Features.

How do you make mosquitoes not bite you?

Use insect repellentDEET.Picaridin (known as KBR 3023 and icaridin outside the US)IR3535.Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE)Para-menthane-diol (PMD)2-undecanone.

How do I make myself less attractive to mosquitoes?

There are plenty of theories on how best to repel unwanted insect attention, but here are our favourites:Disgust them with DEET. ... Don't sweat the small stuff. ... Avoid bananas. ... Cause them turbulence. ... Stop them in their tracks. ... Dress to unimpress. ... Play the long game. ... Get rid of standing water.

Does vinegar get rid of mosquitoes?

Acetic acid makes vinegar an excellent tool for pest control, repelling some of the most common backyard nuisances and even killing weaker insects. It's most effective against ants, spiders, and mosquitos. You can keep spiders from entering your home by spraying vinegar around your property's perimeter and entryways.

Does coffee grounds keep mosquitoes away?

You can control them with coffee grounds, a safe and effective way to keep pests away. Not only do they repel mosquitoes, but also other insects such as wasps and bees. Coffee grounds are the bee's knees when it comes to staying bug bite free.

How do you burn coffee grounds to get rid of mosquitoes?

Insect Repellent Since coffee grounds are very potent, it's a perfect repellent to fight off those pests. According to the EPA, coffee grounds are most potent when they are burned. All you need to do is place the coffee grounds in a bowl on a flat surface outside, and burn the grounds like you would incense.

What plant is a natural mosquito repellent?

Citronella GrassCitronella Grass (Lemon Grass) Known for its distinct smell, citronella grass (or lemon grass) is the most commonly used natural ingredient in mosquito repellants. In fact, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden recommends lemon-scented plants such as citronella grass to keep mosquitoes at bay.

What is the best mosquito deterrent?

Our Top Mosquito Repeller PicksBest Overall: Thermacell Radius Zone Mosquito Repeller.Runner-Up: Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller.Best Natural: Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Cones.Best Dunks: Terro No-Mess Mosquito Pouches.Best Coils: OFF! Backyard Mosquito Repellent Coils.

What is the best mosquito repellent?

Our pick. Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent. The best bug repellent. ... Runner-up. Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick + Insect Repellent. Another standout picaridin spray. ... Also great. Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent. The best DEET-based repellent. ... Also great. Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment.

What does mosquito hate the most?

The 10 Things Mosquitoes Hate MostWind – Artificial or Natural. ... Garlic. ... Certain Styles of Clothing. ... Sober Individuals. ... Light Clothes. ... Smoke. ... Dry Areas. Mosquitoes are attracted to moist places. ... Scent-Free Lotion. Mosquitoes really hate when you don't wear a flowery or sweet smelling lotion.More items...

What is the best repellent for mosquitoes?

Our pick. Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent. The best bug repellent. ... Runner-up. Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick + Insect Repellent. Another standout picaridin spray. ... Also great. Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent. The best DEET-based repellent. ... Also great. Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment.

Do mosquitoes hate vinegar?

Acetic acid makes vinegar an excellent tool for pest control, repelling some of the most common backyard nuisances and even killing weaker insects. It's most effective against ants, spiders, and mosquitos. You can keep spiders from entering your home by spraying vinegar around your property's perimeter and entryways.

Do mosquitoes like lemon scent?

There are several essential oils that have demonstrated mosquito-repellent properties. A few of the best include: Lemon eucalyptus – The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has credited lemon eucalyptus oil as a reliable mosquito repellent. If you enjoy the bright smell of lemon, this oil is worth a try.

What bacteria attack mosquito larvae?

By using Bt bacteria ( Bacillus thuringiensis ), which attack mosquito larvae but pose no threat to other life forms. There are different strains of Bt bacteria; for an example of one used to fight mosquitoes, see below. Or by acquiring the eaters of mosquito larvae mentioned above, the aptly named "mosquitofish.".

What is citronella made of?

Citronella products made from Cymbopogon nardus are widely used in natural mosquito control. Some people burn citronella in a candle, while others apply it to the skin as a protective oil. In the latter case, citronella is sometimes mixed with other oils, derived from plants such as castor bean or catnip.

What are some examples of natural mosquito repellents?

Examples of Natural Mosquito Control Methods and Safe Repellents: Plant oils that can be applied to the skin as natural repellents ; for example, those that come from citronella, castor bean plants, or catnip plants. Certain bath oils with repellent qualities.

What is the bacteria that kills mosquito larvae in standing water?

A bacteria called "Bti" (a strain of the Bacillus thuringiensis mentioned above) is often used for mosquito larvae control in standing water. 1

How to control mosquitoes naturally?

Besides using mosquito repellents to protect your skin against insect bites, you can also take measures to control mosquitoes naturally by making changes to your landscape. We need to identify the nooks and crannies holding up "Welcome" signs to breeding mosquitoes and either get rid of them or make them less welcoming.

What is the best bath oil for mosquitoes?

Certain bath oils with repellent qualities. Many people swear by Avon's Skin So Soft, although it is specifically Avon’s "Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus" that is marketed as the true mosquito repellent.

Why is it important to stay organic in landscape maintenance?

Staying organic in your landscape maintenance so as to avoid killing mosquito predators.

What are your favorite natural ways to get rid of mosquitoes?

We'd love to hear from you. Have you tried any of these methods and succeeded in removing mosquitoes from your environment? Leave us a comment below and let us know your personal experiences!

How to keep mosquitoes away from my house?

Garlic. Garlic is made up of several properties that help keep mosquitoes away. To test this method out, you can crush a few cloves of garlic and then boil them in water. Then, you'll want to pour the solution in a spray bottle and spray it around your room, garage, etc.

What to put on your body to keep mosquitoes away?

Fun fact: You can also put some on your body to avoid getting bit! 5. Mint. Similar to lavender oil, mosquitoes also hate the smell of mint. Once again, use this to your advantage! Take fresh mint or mint oil and place it around your environment. You can also consider growing mint shrubs to keep them away for good! 6.

What is the best way to kill mosquito larvae?

Basil leaves are known for killing mosquito larvae. What does this mean for you? You can simply plant a basil plant in your backyard or at the entry points of your home. You can also spray some basil oil to repel mosquitoes.

Why do mosquitoes die in stagnant water?

Mosquito eggs will come up to the surface and die due to not having any oxygen.

How to keep bugs out of apartment?

We know it can be difficult to keep bugs and insects out of your apartment. Try using these natural mosquito repellent methods next time you catch mosquitoes swarming around your environment. 1. Camphor. Camphor is a natural home remedy that will assist in getting rid of mosquitoes around your house or apartment.

How to get rid of mosquitoes in a spray bottle?

The same goes for mosquitoes. Just mix a few drops of tea tree oil in some water and add it to a spray bottle.

What is the best candle to use for mosquitoes?

Citronella . Citronella is a common natural and effective essential oil that works against mosquitoes. Made from a mix of herbs, it’s an ingredient in many mosquito repellents. When outdoors, citronella candles can provide up to 50 percent extra protection.

What is the best natural repellent for mosquitoes?

Read on to see which natural repellents work best. 1. Lemon eucalyptus oil. Used since the 1940s, lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the more well-known natural repellents. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have approved eucalyptus oil as an effective ingredient in mosquito repellent. A recent study.

What happens if you get a mosquito bite?

If you do develop an infection or allergic reaction due to a significant amount of mosquito bites, take note of your symptoms and contact your doctor. An elevated temperature, pus or bleeding where the bite is, or scabs that won’t go away could be a sign of a problem.

How to treat a mosquito bite?

To treat mosquito bites at home, you can try rubbing apple cider vinegar at the site of the bite. Putting a slice of raw onion or freshly cut garlic on the bite can also provide relief and guard against infection . Calamine lotion or over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help as well.

How long does Geraniol repel mosquitoes?

It’s from plant oils like citronella, lemongrass, and rose. As an ingredient in mosquito repellent, it’s known to be effective for two to four hours, depending on the species.

How to make cinnamon oil?

To make a diluted 1 percent solution, mix 1/4 teaspoon (or 24 drops) of oil for every 4 ounces of water. You can spray the fluid onto your skin or clothing, around your home, and onto upholstery or plants. Be careful when applying cinnamon oil, as a concentrated dose can irritate your skin. 4.

What is the best insect repellent?

8. Tea tree oil. Tea tree oil , or melaleuca oil, is a popular essential oil from Australia. This oil is known for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. But recent studies also suggest that tea tree oil may be an effective insect repellent.

How to get rid of mosquitoes naturally?

14 Natural Ways To Get Rid of Mosquitoes Effectively. Mosquitoes are tiny insects, but they’re pesky, and they can actually be quite hazardous if they’re not managed. If you’re struggling with a mosquito issue in your home, knowing how to get rid of them the natural way will help you to control the problem in the long run. ...

How to kill mosquitoes with garlic?

You’ll just need to crush a handful of garlic cloves, mix them with water to form a paste, then let it boil for a few minutes. After boiling, spray the mixture in the room to kill all the mosquitoes present.

How to keep mosquitoes away from my house?

You can keep mosquitoes away by spraying lavender oil in the room, where it will act as a natural air freshener and ward those pesky mites away. Alternatively, you can apply it to exposed parts of your body for additional protection. 5. Pinion Wood.

How to get rid of mosquitoes in a container?

Though it’s a little more time consuming, the dry ice method of getting rid of mosquitoes is pretty effective. Just place dry ice inside a container, and over several hours, it will attract mosquitoes thanks to its carbon dioxide emissions .

What is peppermint used for?

Peppermint has a minty smell and is used as a herbal remedy for everything from digestion relief to treating tension headaches. It can also be sprayed in an environment to prevent a mosquito invasion.

Why do mosquitoes die in coffee grounds?

When you do that, the mosquito eggs in the water will rise to the surface. This will cause them to automatically die due to oxygen depletion. 2.

How to get rid of mosquito bites?

The simplest way to stay protected from mosquito bites is to mix a few drops of tea tree oil with some water or carrier oil, like coconut, and apply it to your body. 10. Garlic.

How long does it take for mosquitoes to grow?

It takes Mosquitoes about 8 days to grow from an egg to an adult. Knowing this, our recommendation is to empty any areas of standing water, at least once per week, to reduce the likelihood of Mosquito populations increasing around your home.

How long does Neem oil repel mosquitoes?

Studies in the Journal of American Mosquito Control Association show that using Neem Oil and Coconut Oil mixed together will repel mosquitoes for up to 8 hours. Good Nature offers a Neem Oil Soap, which in addition to containing Neem, is comprised of B Vitamins, Lemon Essential Oil, and Tea Tree Oil. Each of these ingredients has health benefits, as well as Mosquito repelling properties. You can read more about these ingredients, which have been shown to naturally and safely ward off Mosquitoes, in this article. ( Note: This soap makes no official claims of repelling Mosquito, but we have found it to be helpful and effective ).

Does Neem shampoo help with ticks?

If you're interested in protecting your pet s from Mosquitoes, Fleas, and Ticks, one thing I've found helpful is Neem Pet Shampoo , made with certified organic Neem Oil, which will sooth your pets skin and reduce the itching associated with bites. Neem Oil is an excellent insect repellent, so there may be some repelling effect on Fleas and Ticks as well as Mosquitoes.

Can you eat bananas outside?

Some authorities on the subject, believe that eating bananas or drinking beer prior to going outside can make you more susceptible to Mosquito bites. So, it's possible that enjoying a few beers outside might make you more attractive to Mosquitoes. You could try to get your hands on Garlic Breadth Beer, a Dogfish Head Beer brewed with garlic to see if the garlic repellent offsets the beer attractant. If you do this, please let us know how it goes!

What is Wondercide spray?

You can get these in a variety of forms, but the most common may be a spray treatment. This yard spray from Wondercide uses natural ingredients to repel pesky insects like mosquitoes without putting you at risk from harmful chemicals.

How do bug zappers work?

You can purchase one to hang on your porch or install wherever you spend most of your time in your yard. Bug zappers work by emitting UV light, which attracts mosquitoes. When the mosquito lands on the bug zapper, it ‘zaps’ and kills them. Recent bug zappers also emit carbon dioxide for a double-whammy at attracting and destroying mosquitoes. If you don’t mind cleaning your bug zapper every now and then or the light and noise it emits while killing mosquitoes, consider trying one in your yard to live mosquito-free.

What is the best way to use citronella oil for mosquitoes?

The citrus-like aroma of citronella works wonders at repelling mosquitoes and other flying pests. If you’re looking to use citronella to protect your yard, consider investing in citronella candles or torches. By burning the citronella oil, you’ll create an effective area of mosquito repellent. As a bonus, citronella torches often come in decorative holders that can really brighten up your yard when they are placed strategically.

What plants repel mosquitoes?

If you have already read our recommendations for 21 mosquito repellent plants, you already know that there are certain plants you can grow that will keep mosquitoes away without the harsh use of chemicals. Lavender, marigold, and lemongrass are a few of the more popular and beautiful options, but there are so many more that will also really spruce up your yard while also keeping the area free of flying pests. Many of these plants are both visually appealing and effective at keeping mosquitoes away. There are also certain herbs you can grow that are great for keeping your kitchen stocked while also repelling mosquitoes, like basil, thyme, and rosemary. Take a look at the article listed above for mosquito repellent plants and also this list for even more plants you can grow to keep mosquitoes away.

How to get rid of mosquitoes around fire pit?

If you’re looking to repel them without chemicals, try burning pinion wood next time you have a gathering around the fire. Pinion wood has a smoky pine fragrance that adds a great aroma to the air and also helps repel mosquitoes. You can purchase pinion wood from home goods stores or order it online ( here are some pinion mini-logs perfect for your next fire pit ). Just make sure that it is authentic pinion wood and not merely mislabelled. Many stores will label regular pine wood as pinion, so ask an expert before purchasing or look up the brand online to ensure your money is being well-spent.

How to get rid of mosquitoes in my yard?

There are products available that use all-natural ingredients to repel mosquitoes after you use them to treat your yard.

How to keep mosquitoes out of bird bath?

If you want to keep bird baths or other containers, remember to change the water weekly to eliminate any mosquito larvae that may be hiding inside. Adding a current to pools or ponds will also reduce the possibility of mosquitoes using the water to reproduce.

Why do pregnant women seem to attract mosquitos?

from 2000 and 2004) have proven that pregnant women are bitten by mosquitos twice as much as non-pregnant women. Why? Pregnant women exhale more carbon dioxide than non-pregnant women. They are also warmer than people who aren’t pregnant. And of course, especially pregnant women shouldn’t use chemical repellents. It is really important for them to opt for natural solutions.

Why are citronella candles good for mosquitoes?

Insects are attracted to light sources. That’s, by the way, another reason why citronella candles are effective as natural mosquito repellents. So, avoid keeping your garden lights on, as much as possible. And when you are not outside, remember to turn them off.

What determines mosquito vulnerability?

A few things determine our vulnerability: Heat ( study from 2017) Blood type. Body odor. Studies showed that mosquitos may tend to bite people with blood group “O” twice as much as they bite those with type “A” ( study from 2019 ). In addition, a study from 2016, study from 2015, and one from 2011 tested whether or not body odor plays a role.

How to make mosquito repellent?

The procedure for making your homemade mosquito repellent is very simple: add your desired herb to boiling water and let it steep for some time until it gets to normal room temperature. Then add the cooled herbal mixture to 8 oz. of witch hazel. Voila, your homemade mosquito repellent is ready. Simply put the mixture in a spray bottle and keep it handy while you are outside.

How to get rid of mosquitoes in your house?

Home remedies that repel mosquitoes involve adding certain dried herbs or flowers to boiling water. Here are some plants you can use below:

Why don't mosquitoes attack when it's windy?

Ever wondered why mosquitos don’t attack much when it’s windy? The reason for this is simple: mosquitos are weak flyers who find it hard to fly in a breeze over 2 mph.

What flying animal loves mosquitoes?

There is another flying animal that loves mosquitos: birds. Species of birds like swallows and purple martins are natural mosquito killers, who would love to have either adult mosquitos and their larvae as a meal.

How to kill mosquito larvae in water?

Pour a tiny amount of Agnique MMF mosquito larvicide in the water so that a thin layer covers the surface. It’ll suffocate the larvae (and any other insects in the water) without harming fish. You can also use Mosquito Dunk in the water. These doughnut-shaped briquettes produce a toxic bacterial spore that kills mosquito larvae but won’t harm fish or animals. One briquette lasts for 30 days, and large bodies of water may require more briquettes.

How to get rid of mosquito bites?

Turns out, mosquitoes are attracted to darker-colored materials. As for the length, if you can cover up, you should do so. Wearing long sleeves and pants will significantly reduce the number of mosquito bites you accumulate by the end of the evening. If you’re in need of some new pieces of clothing ...

How to keep mosquitoes away from the ground?

This simple solution is surprisingly effective for spur-of-the-moment events or gatherings. Because they are so light, mosquitoes are weak flyers. The breeze from the fans makes it difficult for them to fly, keeping them out of your entertainment area.

Why are mosquitoes attracted to humans?

The chemicals human bodies put off hang in the air around us and allow mosquitoes to hone in on us — and that’s when the biting starts. Rapid air movement confuses mosquitoes, and dissipating these telltale human signs makes us harder to find.

Why do mosquitoes like shade?

Mosquitoes like shade to escape the midday heat. Hedges, bushes, and tall grass provide shade that shelters mosquitoes. They need a place to get out of the heat and sun during the day, so the fewer shaded areas they find, the less they’ll congregate in your yard.

How to make witch hazel spray smell better?

Add a couple tablespoons of the oil into your witch hazel spray and try it out. If the spray isn’t mixing well even when you shake it, you can also add a little vegetable glycerin (a.k.a glycerol, a clear, odorless liquid typically made from palm, soy or coconut oil) to help the ingredients combine.

What is the best oil to use to repel mosquitoes?

If you’re looking for a more natural remedy that will keep mosquitoes away, this oil will do the trick. Lemon eucalyptus is an effective natural oil to use as a mosquito repellent, with sharp-scented compounds proven to drive mosquitoes away, though it doesn’t last as long as other sprays.

Dangers of Mosquitoes

There are over 3,000 species of mosquitoes in almost every country around the world, with roughly 200 species in the U.S. alone. Unfortunately, these flying pests can carry malaria, West Nile virus, dengue, yellow fever, Zika virus, and more.

How to Get Rid of Indoor Mosquitoes

You’re more likely to have a mosquito issue in your yard than in your home itself, but having mosquitoes buzzing around during bedtime can be frustrating.

The Best Way to Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Your Yard

Now that you know how to get rid of mosquitoes in your home, here are a few ways to keep these pests out of your yard. The most effective methods to get rid of mosquitoes outdoors include these:

Professional Mosquito Control

While you may find some measure of success with DIY methods, if you’re dealing with tons of mosquitoes, you need to call in a professional pest control company. Professional pest control companies have the expertise to kill mosquitoes at all stages of the life cycle and are more knowledgeable about safety practices when applying chemicals.

Local Pest Control Companies

Some homeowners prefer to select a pest control company a little closer to home, whether a local business or a locally owned branch. Others simply prefer to be called instead of calling around for quotes. To be contacted by local pest control companies in your area, fill out this form or insert your details into the tool below.

Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team is committed to providing unbiased and comprehensive reviews for our readers. This means earning your trust through transparency and having the data to back up our ratings and recommendations. With that in mind, we spent time creating an objective rating system to score each best pest control company.