How Do You Keep Mosquitoes Away Naturally?

An online search will provide you with endless tips and tricks that supposedly help to keep mosquitoes at bay. But which natural mosquito repellents actually work? In general, the following things are the best ways to keep mosquitoes away naturally:

And of course, if none of these methods work, contact a professional mosquito exterminator right away.

The best way to keep mosquitoes away naturally is to limit the things in your outdoor area that would attract them. The number one way to do this is to get rid of all sources of standing water. This is most often collected in:

Make sure to tip over or cover standing water regularly. In addition, mosquitoes are weak fliers and thus hate windy environments. Turning on a fan when you are in your backyard is a great way to repel mosquitoes naturally.

Essential oils have some personal benefits, but do they work as a natural mosquito repellent? It’s always important to dilute essential oils with carrier oils and perform a skin patch test to ensure no reactions are had. Here’s what to know about the following mosquito home remedies:

Citronella is a naturally occurring oil that is derived from leaves and grass. This gives it a characteristic yellow-brown color with a grassy, floral, and citrus scent. Citronella essential oil is used for many purposes, namely as a natural insect repellent, as perfume, as a food additive, to promote wound healing, and even as an antifungal agent. Citronella candles have since become a very popular product that is marketed to repel not only mosquitoes but a variety of other insects as well.

Citronella plants, typically sold as lemon-scented geraniums, do not repel mosquitoes. It is the oil within the leaves that contains the properties needed to repel mosquitoes. The leaves must be crushed or rubbed to extract the oil, which could help to keep mosquitoes at bay. When it comes to repelling mosquitoes, it’s important to always rely on more effective and approved methods of prevention.

Citronella actually works to repel insects by masking the scents that otherwise attract bugs. The scent of citronella can make it difficult for mosquitoes to locate you. At every store and in every article online, you’ve likely seen citronella boasted as an effective mosquito repellent. Citronella oil has been formulated into sprays, lotions, and candles.

If you place a citronella candle outdoors in the summer, the burning of oil may aid in repelling mosquitoes and other insects. However, any effectiveness is short-lived. In fact, some research has shown that citronella candles may only be effective for a couple of hours.

Despite claims that taking vitamin B will repel mosquitoes over time, all research and studies have found that it does not have an effect on mosquitoes. Similar studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of coconut oil. While not found to be effective on its own, topical applications of coconut oil on the skin combined with essential oils could help to repel mosquitoes. In any case, always speak with your doctor before attempting to use any homemade mosquito repellents.