Not only are mosquitoes aggravating in the summertime, but they are also cause for health concern because they transmit West Nile virus and the Zika virus to humans. The good news is that you can continue to enjoy your time outside with these simple tips for how to repel mosquitoes outdoors.
There are dozens of ways to repel mosquitoes without resorting to bathing in harsh, toxic bug repellents.
1. Use Citronella Candles
Citronella plant oil in candles is one of the best ways to repel mosquitoes outdoors. Purchase citronella candles at any grocery or home improvement store. Rub citronella essential oil on the skin to repel mosquitoes, too.
2. Lavender
Lavender is not only a lovely and fragrant plant, but it is also an excellent way to help repel mosquitoes outside. Mosquitoes dislike lavender and they stay far away from any area that contains the plant.
Lavender essential oils also ward off the pesky insects. Apply it to your ankles, feet, or wrists, and watch the mosquitoes avoid you. If you have sensitive skin, mix the oil with cream before applying.
3. Basil Leaves
Planting basil in the yard helps to keep mosquitoes from feeding on your family. It is one of the herbs that repel pests without crushing the leaves. While there are many different basil varieties, cinnamon basil and lemon basil are the most potent herbs for keeping mosquitoes at bay.
4. Remove Standing Water
While natural enemies like spiders kill mosquitoes, they love standing water because they use the stagnant water to lay their eggs. To prevent mosquito larvae from becoming adult mosquitoes, remove their breeding ground by getting rid of standing water in your yard.
This includes birdbaths, leaving your dog’s water dish outside, drainage systems, and ponds. If you can’t eliminate these sources, then it is essential that you treat them often with bug repellent.
5. Essential Oils
There are a variety of essential oils that work for repelling mosquitoes. The best essential oils for repelling the pests are lavender oil, citronella oil, and lemongrass oil. Similar to the methods to keep ants away, lemon eucalyptus oil and eucalyptus essential oils also work well.
6. Put Up Air Curtains
Air curtains keep mosquitoes away from guests at concession stands, customer entrances, and drive-up windows at many fast food restaurants. Their effectiveness at repelling mosquitoes makes them ideal to use in residential outdoor living spaces. Air curtains are quite simple to install and maintain, and their screen of air keeps bugs of all kinds away.
7. Try Crushed Garlic
Repel mosquitoes naturally with crushed or minced garlic. The sulfur in the garlic sends mosquitoes, black flies, ticks, fleas, and stink bugs away. Sprinkling cut garlic around your yard helps keep your garden pest free. Or, spray this homemade garlic-infused insect repellent on the plants surrounding your patio.
