What Smells Do Mosquitoes Hate The Most?

Summer evenings in Kentucky often mean relaxing on the porch, enjoying the warm breeze and the chirping of crickets. However, there's one persistent nuisance that can put a damper on this idyllic scene—mosquitoes. These pesky insects not only leave itchy bites but can also transmit diseases like West Nile virus and Zika. While bug sprays and citronella candles are common remedies, there's another approach that many homeowners overlook: using scents that mosquitoes hate.

Scents That Naturally Repel Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes rely heavily on their sense of smell to locate their next meal. They are attracted to certain odors, such as carbon dioxide from our breath and lactic acid from our skin. However, there are scents that act as natural mosquito repellents, making them less likely to linger in your outdoor spaces.

1. Citrus Scents

Citrus smells, such as those from lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, are highly effective at repelling mosquitoes. You can create your own natural repellent by mixing citrus essential oils with water and spraying it around your patio or outdoor seating area. Alternatively, place citrus peels in strategic locations to deter mosquitoes from coming too close.

2. Lavender

Not only is lavender a pleasant scent for humans, but it also happens to be a mosquito repellent. Planting lavender bushes or placing dried lavender sachets around your home can help keep mosquitoes at bay. You can also make a lavender-infused oil or spray to use as a natural repellent.

3. Peppermint

Mosquitoes dislike the strong, minty smell of peppermint. Consider planting peppermint plants in your garden or using peppermint oil to create a mosquito-repelling spray. You can also crush fresh peppermint leaves and rub them on your skin for added protection.

4. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil is known for its insect-repelling properties, including mosquitoes. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil and apply it to your skin before going outdoors. You can also place eucalyptus leaves or branches near windows and doors to deter mosquitoes from entering your home.

5. Rosemary

Rosemary is another herb that mosquitoes dislike. Planting rosemary bushes near outdoor seating areas or using rosemary essential oil in a diffuser can help create a mosquito-free zone. Plus, you'll have fresh rosemary on hand for cooking!

6. Basil

Basil not only adds flavor to your favorite dishes but also repels mosquitoes. Plant basil in pots around your outdoor spaces or crush fresh basil leaves to release their scent. You can also make a basil-infused spray by steeping basil leaves in water and using it as a natural repellent.

7. Garlic

While humans love the taste of garlic, mosquitoes can't stand its odor. Incorporate garlic into your meals or create a garlic spray by crushing garlic cloves and mixing them with water. Spray the solution around your outdoor areas to repel mosquitoes effectively.

8. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, emits a lemony scent that mosquitoes find displeasing. Plant lemon balm in your garden or use its essential oil to create a mosquito-repelling spray. You can also rub crushed lemon balm leaves on your skin for added protection.

9. Catnip

Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which is highly effective at repelling mosquitoes. Plant catnip in pots or in your garden to keep mosquitoes away. You can also crush catnip leaves and rub them on your skin for a natural repellent.

Tips for Using Mosquito-Repelling Scents

Here are a couple of tips to help you control the mosquito population in your yard and avoid itchy mosquito bites:

Use Essential Oils

Essential oils are potent mosquito repellents, but they should be used with caution. Always dilute essential oils properly before applying them to skin or surfaces to avoid irritation. A few drops of essential oil mixed with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil can create an effective repellent.

Create DIY Sprays

One of the easiest ways to use essential oils for mosquito control is by creating a DIY spray. 

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces of distilled water
• 1.5 ounces of witch hazel
• 30-40 drops of essential oils (you can mix and match based on your preferences; some effective options include citronella oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, lemongrass oil, and tea tree oil)
• A spray bottle

Instructions:

1. In a clean spray bottle, combine the distilled water and witch hazel. The witch hazel acts as a stabilizer and helps disperse the essential oils evenly.
2. Add 30-40 drops of your chosen essential oils to the mixture. You can adjust the number of drops based on the strength of the scent and your sensitivity.
3. Close the spray bottle tightly and shake well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
4. Spray the repellent on exposed skin, clothing, and around outdoor areas where mosquitoes tend to gather. Avoid spraying near eyes or open wounds.
5. Reapply the spray every few hours or as needed, especially if you're sweating or swimming.
6. Store the DIY mosquito repellent spray in a cool, dark place when not in use.

This DIY mosquito repellent spray is natural, effective, and safe for use by both adults and children. However, it's always a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin before widespread use, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies to certain essential oils. Enjoy your mosquito-free outdoor adventures!

Plant Mosquito-Repelling Plants

In addition to using scents, consider adding mosquito-repelling plants to your garden or pots. Plants like citronella, marigolds, and catnip naturally deter mosquitoes and can create a protective barrier around your outdoor space. Plant them strategically near seating areas or entry points to maximize their effectiveness.

Keep Outdoor Spaces Clean

Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water and debris, which serve as breeding grounds. Regularly inspect and empty water from flower pots, bird baths, and gutters to eliminate these potential mosquito habitats. Keep your outdoor spaces clean and tidy to reduce the likelihood of mosquito infestations.

Professional Mosquito Control

While using natural insect repellents might be a good option for smaller infestations, if you are continuing to struggle with mosquitoes in your yard, it might be time to call the experts. If you are looking for professional mosquito experts in Kentucky, look no further than Kentucky Pest Control. With over 1 years of local experience, our targeted mosquito treatments offer a mosquito-free yard all summer long. Contact our team to learn more!