How Do You Keep Mosquitoes Away Naturally?

When it comes to keeping mosquitoes away naturally, it can be difficult to know for sure which methods work and which are simply a ruse. Rather than use DIY insect repellents, here are a few measures you can take to prevent mosquitoes naturally:

1. Get rid of standing water on or near your property.
2. Install fans around your outdoor areas.
3. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, preferably in brighter colors.
4. Utilize mosquito traps as advised by a professional mosquito exterminator.

Tips to Repel Mosquitoes Naturally

The best chance you have at repelling mosquitoes naturally is to rid your property of everything that they are attracted to. The most effective way to do so is to eliminate all sources of standing water. Common sources include pools and ponds, but rainwater commonly collects in birdbaths, gutters, children’s playsets, buckets, and more. Make sure to turn out or cover standing water regularly. Mosquitoes are also weak fliers and avoid windy environments. Turning on a fan when you are in your backyard is a proven method to repel mosquitoes naturally.

Natural Homemade Mosquito Repellents

Essential oils have a long list of benefits, but could they work as a natural mosquito repellent? Certain natural oils, such as citronella, have been known to repel mosquitoes. When creating an insect repellent with essential oils, make sure to dilute the oil with a carrier oil or unscented lotion, and always perform a skin patch test to ensure that no adverse reactions occur. The following essential oils may work to repel mosquitoes:

1. Lemon eucalyptus oil. Both the EPA and the CDC have classified lemon eucalyptus as a natural mosquito repellent. However, it’s important to remember that it has not been approved for children under the age of three.
2. Peppermint oil. When mixed with a carrier oil like olive or canola, peppermint oil’s strong fragrance can possibly keep mosquitoes away.
3. Lavender oil: Another very fragrant oil, studies show that lavender is effective at repelling adult mosquitoes, reducing their tendency to bite.
4. Catnip oil: Derived from catnip through the process of steam distillation, catnip oil is EPA-approved and said to allow up to seven hours of protection against mosquitoes.

Do Vitamin B and Coconut Oil Repel Mosquitoes?

Some believe that maintaining a high volume of vitamin B in your diet over time will decrease your susceptibility to mosquito bites, but this has been disproven by scientific research. Similar studies have been conducted on the ability of coconut oil to repel mosquitoes. While not found to be effective on its own, topical applications of coconut oil on the skin combined with essential oils could aid in keeping pests away. In any case, it’s crucial to be cautious when using homemade mosquito repellents and to seek medical advice for any issues you might have.