Repel Mosquitos The Natural Way With These Essential Oils
There’s nothing like a warm evening on the porch, until the mosquitoes show up to ruin it. But before you reach for the chemical sprays that smell like a science lab, consider trying something more natural. Essential oils can do more than make your home smell nice. Some actually help repel mosquitoes, and they’re surprisingly effective when used correctly. Here’s how to keep the bugs away while keeping things simple, safe, and smelling great.
Lemon Eucalyptus
Lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the few plant-based repellents that has been proven to work almost as well as DEET. Its crisp, lemony scent smells clean to us but confusing to mosquitoes. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil, and dab it on your exposed skin before heading outside. It’s an easy, natural way to enjoy the evening without having to hear constant buzzing around your ears.
Lavender
Lavender oil smells lovely, helps you relax, and happens to drive mosquitoes crazy. It works because the floral scent masks the human odor that attracts them. You can dilute it with water and spritz it on curtains, bedding, or even your skin before bed. It’s especially great for those who want something gentle, as lavender is one of the most skin-friendly essential oils out there, making it perfect for families.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil has a cool, energizing smell that feels refreshing in summer. But to mosquitoes, it’s unbearable. The menthol compounds act as a natural repellent, and it can even calm the itch of any existing bites if you get nipped. Mix a few drops with witch hazel or water in a spray bottle for a quick, easy mist that you can use on yourself, your clothes, or your patio furniture.
Citronella
Citronella oil is the old standby for the simple reason that it really works. Derived from lemongrass, it blocks mosquitoes’ ability to locate you by scent. You can burn citronella in candles, use it in diffusers, or add a few drops to your everyday lotion for outdoor protection. Just remember it fades over time, so reapply or refresh your candle every couple of hours for the best results.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil does more than repel mosquitoes. It’s antibacterial, antifungal, and helps soothe bites too. Its sharp, earthy scent isn’t for everyone, but mosquitoes definitely choose to avoid it. Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and shake before using. It’s a great option for campers or gardeners who want something natural that keeps bugs (and germs) at bay.
Clove
Clove oil has a strong, spicy aroma that makes mosquitoes back off quickly. Because it’s potent, always dilute it well before applying it to your skin. Mix a few drops with olive or coconut oil, or add it to a diffuser for a warm, comforting scent that doubles as protection from mosquitos. It’s especially effective when paired with other oils like citronella or peppermint for a powerful one-two punch.
Geranium
Geranium oil offers a rosy, slightly citrus scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. It’s great to put in outdoor diffusers or homemade bug sprays. Blend a few drops with witch hazel and water, and spritz around doorways or patios. As a bonus it also keeps flies away and adds a subtle floral freshness to your space so that your backyard feels more like a garden, not a bug battleground.
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Essential oils won’t last as long as heavy-duty repellents, but they offer a gentler, more natural way to keep mosquitos away. Whether you use a diffuser, a spray, or a simple oil blend, these scents can make your home and outdoor space a little more easier to enjoy. With the right mix, you can keep mosquitoes away and still breathe easy, surrounded by the calm, clean scent of essential oils.
Bliss Donahue-Power
