8 Tips For Repelling Mosquitos

Daniel Mitchell in home living

7/1/25

This article may contain affiliate links, learn more.

Mosquitos can turn a warm evening walk or a quiet afternoon in the yard into a truly uncomfortable experience. The swarming, the noise, the itching, it’s no wonder people consider mosquitos one of the most annoying insects out there. Keeping them away can seem like an uphill battle, but there’s more to mosquito control than just sprays or candles. The tips here are designed to help you keep mosquitos away in a way that fits real life.

Avoid Standing Water

Mosquitos breed in stagnant water, and they don’t need much. A shallow saucer, clogged gutter, or forgotten flowerpot can quickly become a nesting ground for even more mosquitoes. Walk through your yard regularly to empty or refresh anything that holds still water. Even pet bowls and birdbaths should be rinsed and refilled every couple of days. Stopping mosquito breeding at the source is one of the simplest, yet most overlooked forms of prevention.

Two eastern bluebirds and one cedar waxwing all perched on a small bird bath.

Choose Specific Clothing

Your clothes can make a real difference. Mosquitos are attracted to darker colors and can bite through thin, skin-tight fabrics. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing gives you a better layer of defense, especially during dawn and dusk. If you’re outside for a while, think about long sleeves and pants. It may not be ideal on hot days, but for heavy mosquito activity, the extra coverage is worth it.

Woman in light brown linen pants and a white shirt, photographed from the waist to the calves, hands in pockets, flowers also in pockets.

Use Fans

Mosquitos are weak fliers, which makes a simple fan surprisingly effective. A steady breeze, even on low speed, makes it harder for them to land or linger. Set up a box fan on a porch, patio, or near outdoor seating. The constant airflow keeps the air moving, the bugs at bay, and it helps you stay a little cooler when you’re relaxing outside.

Electric fan in front of a window, close up.

Try Plant-Based Repellents

Certain plant oils do more than just smell nice. Lemon eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and, most famously, citronella all have mosquito-repelling qualities. Look for sprays or lotions made with these ingredients and avoid those filled with added perfumes or dyes. For those with sensitive skin, patch test first. While they may need to be reapplied more often than synthetic repellents, they’re gentler and often safer for children and pets.

Close-up of African American dad spraying the hand of his son with mosquito spray during hiking

Grow Strategic Plants

Some plants actively deter mosquitos through their natural scent. Basil, marigolds, rosemary, and lemongrass are all good choices for patios or window boxes. Plant them near doorways, seating areas, or anywhere mosquitos tend to gather. They won’t keep mosquitos out entirely, but they do help. Plus, it’s nice to have fresh herbs on hand, so they pull double duty.

Keep Outdoor Lighting Mosquito-Friendly

Bright white lights can attract flying insects, including mosquitos. Switch to warm-toned LEDs or yellow “bug lights” in your outdoor fixtures to make the space less appealing to them. Avoid leaving porch or patio lights on longer than you need to. If you want ambiance, consider solar lights or more flame-based options like citronella torches, which can also help create an airborne deterrent without drawing bugs in at the same time.

A softly glowing garden lantern is beautifully surrounded by lush plants and ornamental stones in a tranquil setting

Keep Your Body Scent Neutral

What you put on your skin matters. Scented lotions, body sprays, and even certain shampoos can attract mosquitos. They’re drawn to floral or fruity scents, especially when mixed with sweat. On days you’ll be outdoors for long stretches, go with unscented products and skip the perfume altogether. When possible, shower off sweat as soon as you can once you’re done working outside, else you might attract bugs all day.

Close-up of woman cleaning her hands with antiseptic hand gel at home.

Time Your Outdoor Activities Carefully

Mosquitos are most active at dawn and dusk, especially in warmer months. If you can, schedule yard work, outdoor meals, or any time spent outside for mid-morning or late afternoon when they’re less aggressive. If being out during peak mosquito time is unavoidable, prep ahead of time and bring whatever kind of repellent you can.

An orange sunrise across a grassy horizon.

Mosquitos can be relentless, but you don’t have to live at their mercy. Small, consistent changes go a long way toward creating a yard and home that’s less welcoming to them. Whether you’re trying natural methods or using physical barriers like fans or clothing, layering your efforts helps. Once you find the combination that works best for your space, mosquito season won’t feel like such a battle.