
How much Listerine do you need to kill mosquitoes?
1 Bottle of Listerine – First, a bottle of Listerine is needed as this is your primary ingredient. Mosquitoes hate this because of its eucalyptus scent, making it an effective ingredient for a bug spray.
Does Listerine work as an insect repellent?
A July 2017 Hunker.com article stated: "If you hate the smell of insecticides and store-bought repellents, you can try to rid yourself of these pests by using Listerine, which will leave behind a much fresher and minty smell." The article did not spell out why the product is useful as an insect repellent.
How effective is Listerine mouthwash?
According to the product's marketing claims, the mouthwash is effective in killing oral bacteria, reducing plaque buildup and preventing gingivitis. In addition, various websites claim Listerine also is effective as an insect repellent.
What is mosquito-gone Listerine especial made of?
There are a number of versions for the “Mosquito-Gone Listerine Especial”. For Arnie Mason, his version is completed with 3 basic household ingredients. These are Epsom salts, beer, and of course, Listerine.

Does mouthwash help with mosquito bites?
Mouthwash – A dash of mouthwash over the bite can reduce the itch. Menthol is the active ingredient that cools the skin providing some relief.
Does Listerine help with insect bites?
Our rating: False. At most, Listerine could provide a brief buffer against mosquito bites. But the evidence is the product does not contain enough of the essential compounds to truly provide protection against mosquito bites.
What Listerine repels mosquitoes?
Experts say most mouthwashes, no matter the brand, typically have some type of flavoring. "Peppermint, spearmint, something like that. Those products actually act as a natural mosquito and insect repellent," said Mitchell.
Why do mosquitoes hate Listerine?
1:192:23VERIFY: Can Listerine repel mosquitoes? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd insect repellent the bugs hate the smell the problem is once you spray the Listerine in yourMoreAnd insect repellent the bugs hate the smell the problem is once you spray the Listerine in your yard or anywhere for that matter the chemicals in the mouthwash. Won't last very long probably not
How do you use Listerine for mosquitoes?
The yellow bottles of Listerine, as these are free of bleaching agents that reduce its ability to repel mosquitoes(5). Once you have the liquid bottle, fill a spray bottle with the Listerine. After you fill the bottle, spray the Listerine on surfaces you want mosquitoes to stay away from. Don't spray yourself with it!
Does rubbing alcohol help mosquito bites?
Swab the bite with rubbing alcohol. “Rubbing alcohol works really well in reducing itching and that histamine response,” Day says, adding that he always carries individually wrapped alcohol wipes when he's studying mosquitoes in the field.
What can you use Listerine for?
10 Other Ways to Use MouthwashCuts and Blisters. If you don't have antibacterial ointment, mouthwash is a great alternative when treating blisters, cuts, and scratches. ... Poison Ivy. ... Deodorant. ... Nail Fungus. ... Freshen Laundry. ... Dandruff. ... After-Piercings. ... Flowers.More items...•
Does anything actually keep mosquitoes away?
Study authors concluded that, “DEET and PMD [are] the most effective and longest lasting mosquito repellents currently available.” PMD is found in products containing C. Citriodora (oil of lemon eucalyptus) and the tradenames Citrosynthol, Citrepel and Citriodiol. It is also effective against ticks.
What is a natural mosquito repellent?
Several natural essential oils can be used as a mosquito repellent, including cinnamon oil, citronella oil, peppermint oil, catnip oil, eucalyptus oil, lavender oil, neem oil, lemongrass oil, soybean oil, tea tree oil, geranium oil, thyme oil, and rosemary oil.
How do you make mosquito spray with mouthwash?
Or you can make your own repellant with ingredients you probably already have at home. Mix 1/3 each of Epsom salt, mouthwash, and beer, and put it in a spray bottle. Another option is to puree garlic and mix in a spray bottle with water. The mouthwash and beer concoction worked best for our tester.
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.
Does Listerine keep flies away?
Listerine in a spray bottle clears your out door area for a fly free zone. Fly deterrent, we didn't believe it but it works. Listerine in a spray bottle clears your out door area for a fly free zone.
What can you use Listerine for?
10 Other Ways to Use MouthwashCuts and Blisters. If you don't have antibacterial ointment, mouthwash is a great alternative when treating blisters, cuts, and scratches. ... Poison Ivy. ... Deodorant. ... Nail Fungus. ... Freshen Laundry. ... Dandruff. ... After-Piercings. ... Flowers.More items...•
Does Listerine keep flies away?
Listerine in a spray bottle clears your out door area for a fly free zone. Fly deterrent, we didn't believe it but it works. Listerine in a spray bottle clears your out door area for a fly free zone.
Does Listerine keep spiders away?
Listerine Method (Debunked) Using Listerine to repel spiders and other insects in ineffective. You see, the primary ingredient in Listerine and other mouthwashes is eucalyptol, which is derived from eucalyptus, which may have some minor spider replant qualities.
Does mouthwash and Epsom salt mosquito repellent?
Or you can make your own repellant with ingredients you probably already have at home. Mix 1/3 each of Epsom salt, mouthwash, and beer, and put it in a spray bottle. Another option is to puree garlic and mix in a spray bottle with water. The mouthwash and beer concoction worked best for our tester.
What is Listerine used for?
It was used to clean floors, as a cough medicine, and even to treat gonorrhea! Only later did it become a mouthwash.
How to stop getting bitten by mosquitoes?
To stop getting bitten by mosquitoes, you are supposed to use Listerine as a spray for the home, or apply it directly to your skin. Using Listerine as a mouthwash to repel mosquitoes does not work long-term. Listerine does repel mosquitoes, but needs to be reapplied or sprayed at regular intervals.
Does Listerine Work As Mosquito Repellent?
Listerine will keep mosquitoes away, but the repellent effect does only work for a very short time. The alcohol quickly evaporates, leaving very little of the mosquito-repelling scented essential oils behind. The concentration of these essential oils is also very low. So as a mosquito repellent, Listerine is not very effective.
Does Mouthwash Keep Mosquitoes Away?
Mouthwashes like Listerine usually contain essential oils, which are often used to keep mosquitoes and other insects away. Listerine mouthwash contains peppermint, thyme, wintergreen and eucalyptus oils which have been proved to work as mosquito repellents. Mouthwash can be applied the skin, but is very drying.
How to keep mosquitoes away from my house?
Make your own homemade yard spray and keep the mosquitoes at bay! Because the following recipe doesn’t include alcohol which evaporates quickly, it will last! Using essential oils and a carrier oil is also important. The scents repel mosquitoes, and the oil means your yard spray will stick to surfaces and last so much longer. This homemade yard spray recipe won’t harm your plants, your pets, or you, either! You can spray your garden furniture. Or plants or trees near seating or barbecue areas. You can even spray your pets (be careful of their eyes!).
What is the composition of Listerine?
Original Listerine is a mixture of alcohol (27%), eucalyptol (0.092%), menthol (0.042%), methyl salicylate (0.06%) and thymol (0.064%). The rest is water. Essential oil percentages are very low in Listerine and don’t repel mosquitoes for long. Listerine mixtures for mosquitoes need to be reapplied regularly.
How to make mosquito spray?
Homemade Mosquito Yard Spray Recipe 1 Find a small 250 cc (or less) spray bottle. 2 Rinse your spray bottle well. 3 Fill the bottle ¾ full with distilled water. 4 Add 4 tablespoons of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or neem oil. 5 Add 1 teaspoon of natural vanilla essence. 6 Add 30 drops each of any of the essential oils listed below. Choose as many as you want. 7 Shake the bottle very well, and spray! 8 Store the bottle in a dark, cool place.
How to get rid of mosquitoes with Listerine?
Once you have the liquid bottle, fill a spray bottle with the Listerine. After you fill the bottle, spray the Listerine on surfaces you want mosquitoes to stay away from. Don’t spray yourself with it!
How long does it take for Listerine to evaporate?
However, the alcohol and water will cause it to evaporate shortly after applying. At best, you’re looking at a good 30-40 minutes of outside work before needing to reapply. If you can, definitely jump for a commercial repellent or any other DIY method, but I don’t recommend Listerine.
What is the concentration of mouthwash?
But they often contain the compound in concentrations as high as 75 percent; the concentration in mouthwash is usually below 1 percent. Mouthwashes also contain water and alcohol, so they tend to evaporate quickly.”.
Is Listerine a commercial repellent?
Listerine is often referred to as a cheap, homemade alternative to commercial repellent products due to it containing eucalyptol, a chemical that is heavily used for commercial repellents. However, these commercial repellents tend to use a 75% compound combination of eucalyptol, whereas Listerine tends to only use 1% (1, 2).
Can you spray Listerine on mosquitoes?
However, if you’re in an area that is absolutely infested with mosquitoes, Listerine won’t be effective.
Is eucalyptus a good repellent?
2 – nytimes.com – “Several studies, including one by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, have found that eucalyptus-based repellents can be extremely effective, and nontoxic to humans. But they often contain the compound in concentrations as high as 75 percent; the concentration in mouthwash is usually below 1 percent. Mouthwashes also contain water and alcohol, so they tend to evaporate quickly.”
Is Listerine a liquid or a liquid?
Liquid. Listerine is available in most stores in some form, either as mouthwash or toothpaste. Wherever you get your hygienic products is where you’ll find a bottle of Listerine. However, you’re going to have more use using it as actual mouthwash than a repellent.
What is Listerine used for?
Listerine is used for reducing dandruff, whitening of yellow nails, and treatment of jock itch. Out of these many uses, the one that comes close to what’s being discussed here is its pest repellent effect (treatment of head lice).
What is Listerine mouthwash?
Listerine is an over-the-counter mouthwash product that helps kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. These bacteria are those most responsible for bad breath.
What Else Can be Used Instead of Listerine?
Since Listerine has its many downsides, it’s necessary to consider other natural treatment options.
What is the concentration of eucalyptol in Listerine?
Eucalyptol only constitutes less than 1% of the ingredients in Listerine. Other ingredients in Listerine include alcohol, and water, etc. for certain pesticides, eucalyptol content can be as high as 75% concentration.
Can you spray Listerine on your skin?
Not only is Listerine sprayed in the air, but it’s also sprayed on surfaces around infested areas. This treatment can also work to repel mosquitoes from biting your skin.
Can you use Listerine as a mosquito repellent?
Using Listerine as a mosquito repellent may give you some results. However, the truth remains; it cannot be depended on as a comprehensive repellent or mosquito treatment.
Can apple cider vinegar be used as a mosquito repellent?
Apple cider vinegar can also come in handy as a mosquito repellent. Using this product is quite simple. All you have to do is mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
How to keep mosquitoes from biting you?
Spray your skin with a light mist of Listerine to keep mosquitoes from biting you. Allow the Listerine to dry on your skin for a minute, and reapply as needed if you notice mosquitoes starting to bite again.
How to get rid of mosquito bites?
Tip. For existing bites, you can use another item that, like Listerine, is more commonly associated with dental uses. To help get rid of some of the itch that goes along with bites, try applying some white mint toothpaste to the bites. If you're going outdoors and need mosquito protection, ...
How long does it take for Listerine to dry?
Spray areas where mosquitoes are numerous with a misting of Listerine. Make sure to spray all nearby surfaces, and spray the air as well. Allow five minutes for the Listerine to dry on surfaces.
What to carry for mosquitoes?
If you're going outdoors and need mosquito protection, carry a small spray bottle containing Listerine. Small spray bottles that can easily fit into a backpack can be found at most beauty supply stores and other retailers. Freshen your breath and keep mosquitoes at bay with Listerine.
Can mosquitoes leave you itchy?
Too often, the sun and fun of summertime is accompanied by dreaded swarms of mosquitoes that come out to feast on animals, including humans. Mosquitoes can leave you with itchy bites, and the need to swat at the annoying insects constantly can make your time outdoors miserable. If you hate the smell of insecticides and store-bought repellents, you can try to rid yourself of these pests by using Listerine, which will leave behind a much fresher and minty smell.
What is the best mosquito repellent?
Looking for a Mosquito Repellent that is fully organic, biodegradable, eco-friendly and non-irritating? BugMace makes a wonderful lemon-vanilla fragrant All Natural Mosquito and Insect Repellent Bug Spray. It is an organic base DEET-free bug deterrent against persistent insects, such as mosquitos, ticks, biting flies, gnats, no-see-ums, chiggers, ants, and fleas. Providing maximum protection for up to 7 hours with no harsh chemicals making it safe for you and your entire family including pets. Safe to use on hiking, camping, fishing and travel gear, making it a must for all outdoor activities.
How to kill mosquitoes with cayenne pepper?
Simply spray it on your body or put the solution into a shallow bowl and mosquitos will die when they get near. Others say that you can mix cayenne pepper with Listerine to repel any number of bugs. The most basic Listerine mosquito repellent recipe is to simply spray Listerine all over your body.
How effective is this?
The problem is, science can prove that Listerine and mosquitoes really have no effect on one another. When asked, “Does Listerine kill mosquitoes?”, most people say unanimously, that it does not work. About the only advantage that you may have is if you happen to spray Listerine directly on a mosquito. This could easily soak its wings enough that it will not be able to fly around and bite you for a little while.
How effective is Repel 100 insect repellent?
Repel 100 Insect Repellent is a highly effective way to reduce disease carrying mosquitos from biting you because it contains 98.11% DEET.
Does mouthwash contain eucalyptus?
However, mouthwash contains very little true eucalyptus in it . There is just enough in it to give you that little burn and a fresh feeling inside of your mouth. Many of the bug sprays that use eucalyptus, have a much more substantial amount of it in them.
Is dEET a bug repellent?
It is an organic base DEET-free bug deterrent against persistent insects, such as mosquitos, ticks, biting flies, gnats, no-see-ums, chiggers, ants, and fleas. Providing maximum protection for up to 7 hours with no harsh chemicals making it safe for you and your entire family including pets.
Does Listerine repel mosquitoes?
The theory is that the Listerine that most people uses for mouthwash is a great way to repel mosquitos. There are some who say that it works. It stems from the simple fact that eucalyptus is used in mouthwash and it is also used in some other types of mosquito repelling sprays. As an idea, it is not necessarily wrong.
What is Listerine used for?
Listerine is an antibacterial mouthwash meant to prevent halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath 4. Eucalyptol, often mixed with lemon oil, is used in some brands of chemical-free insect repellents.
Why is Listerine used in mouthwash?
Insects also are repelled by menthol and thymol. Listerine is an antibacterial mouthwash meant to prevent halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath 4.
How to get rid of insects in clothes?
The powerful menthol scent is abhorrent to insects. Another way to repel insects is to take ordinary dryer sheets that you would typically use for drying laundry and hang them out of the pockets and waistband of your pants.
What is the active ingredient in Listerine?
The active ingredients in Listerine are menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate and eucalyptol. According to the product's marketing claims, the mouthwash is effective in killing oral bacteria, reducing plaque buildup and preventing gingivitis. In addition, various websites claim Listerine also is effective as an insect repellent 2.
What essential oils repel insects?
Essential Oils That Repel Insects. Learn More. According to The Daily Puppy website, the original yellow-colored Listerine works better than other varieties. The best way to keep your back yard or other outdoor area free of insects is to fill a large spray bottle with Listerine and spray it liberally on plants.
Does Listerine kill mosquitoes?
According to urban-legend website Snopes, Listerine may indeed have an insect-repelling effect, but its effects are short term: " [Listerine] may kill some mosquitoes on which it is directly sprayed, but it won't serve to keep knocking mosquitoes dead for hours and hours afterward.".
What is the active ingredient in Listerine?
An article in liveabout.com said the primary active ingredient in Listerine is eucalyptol. This element is "a derivative of eucalyptus oil, which in turn is commonly used in botanical insect repellents.". That would fuel confidence in the ability of the popular mouthwash products to fend off mosquitoes. But here's, well, the rub.
Is genetically modified mosquitoes allowed in the US?
More: Fact check: Genetically modified mosquitoes are cleared for release in the US
Can you use Listerine to repel mosquitoes?
To repel mosquitoes, you would have to apply Listerine to the skin, the agent continued, and the company does "not recommend" using the product other than as directed on product labels.
Does Listerine help with mosquito bites?
At most, Listerine could provide a brief buffer against mosquito bites. But the evidence is the product does not contain enough of the essential compounds to truly provide protection against mosquito bites. In addition, it is always wise to use products as the companies that produce them recommend.
When do mosquitoes go hunting?
However, most of them are especially active at dusk and dawn. Of course, you don’t have to go hunting during dawn unless this is what you really want. You can actually just start spraying the Listerine repellant at dusk.
Can you use stale beer for mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes hate this because of its eucalyptus scent, making it an effective ingredient for a bug spray. 3 Bottles of Stale Beer – You can use any beer brand. The cheapest beer that you can find will do. Beer is a great mosquito killer; apparently, something about the smell (thiamine) makes them flee.
Do mosquitoes hunt in hot weather?
Hunt During Hot Weather. It’s a known fact that mosquitoes thrive in hotter areas. When the temperature reaches 50° F, they’ll start becoming active. So, if the day is hotter than usual or summer is approaching, be more prepared as this is a time where mosquitoes become active and abundant.
Does beer kill mosquitoes?
Beer is a great mosquito killer; apparently, something about the smell (thiamine) makes them flee. 3 Cups of Epsom Salt – Not only is Epsom salt effective in enriching the soil and your plants, but it’s also actually a great addition to any insecticide blend.
Can you make mosquito repellent at home?
So, if you want to get rid of them and reduce your chance of getting a disease, then this effective homemade mosquito repellent Listerine recipe that we’ve prepared for you will do the trick. It’s easy to make and only requires a few materials that you can already find at home.
How to get rid of itching from mosquito bites?
The cold also numbs the skin, which can give you immediate but short-term relief. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a cold pack or a bag filled with crushed ice to relieve the itching caused by a mosquito bite.
What to eat for mosquito bites?
One remedy for an uncomfortable mosquito bite may also be one of your favorite breakfasts. Oatmeal can relieve itching and swelling because it contains special compounds#N#Trusted Source#N#that have anti-irritant qualities.
What is the best plant to use for mosquito bites?
The petite leaves of the thyme plant are delicious on potatoes, fish, and more. They may also help ease the itching of a mosquito bite. Thyme has antibacterial and antifungal properties, so it can help reduce your risk of irritating and infecting the skin around a mosquito bite.
How to get rid of irritated skin on face?
Make an oatmeal paste by mixing equal amounts of oatmeal and water in a bowl until you have a spackle-like substance. Spoon some paste onto a washcloth and hold it, paste-side down, on the irritated skin for about 10 minutes. Then wipe the area clean.
How to get rid of a bite on your skin?
If you have many bites, try an oatmeal bath instead. Sprinkle 1 cup of oatmeal or ground oats into a bathtub full of warm water. Soak in the oatmeal bath for 20 minutes, occasionally rubbing some of the clumped oatme al onto irritated areas of your skin.
Why do mosquitoes bite?
Most mosquito bites are harmless, but some can cause complications. Mosquitoes bite because they are attracted to human blood. The bite, which might not appear until hours later, creates a bump that is typically swollen, sore, or itchy.
How long should you leave ice on a dog bite?
Don’t leave the ice directly on your bite for more than five minutes as it can damage the skin. You can also put a barrier, such as a washcloth, between your skin and the ice so you can leave the ice on the bite longer.
