Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, clove, peppermint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary. They also hate smells such as smoke, for further insight, see our exploration on, does smoke keep mosquitoes away?
Mosquitoes hate peppermint much like wasps and other common pests. Lavender – Lavender is not only an effective mosquito repellent, it's also touted as a powerful ointment to relieve itchy mosquito bites. This oil has a pleasant floral scent and is the safest choice for children.
The mosquitoes were most attracted to airborne carboxylic acids, including butyric acid, a compound present in “stinky” cheeses such as Limburger. These carboxylic acids are produced by bacteria on human skin and tend not to be noticeable to us.
To reduce the possibility of a mosquito biting you, you could consider wearing white, green or blue. Lighter colors are less interesting to mosquitos than darker shades like navy and black, red or orange. However, clothing color alone is unlikely to keep mosquitos away for good.
The best colors for repelling mosquitoes, according to researchers at the University of Washington, are white, green, blue and purple. That isn't because mosquitoes don't like these colors, but because they reflect heat and light, which mosquitoes really don't like, which is why they start to emerge at dusk.
Dragonflies as well as being a natural predator of the mosquito are a fascinating and unique group of insects. Dragonflies are often referred to as "mosquito hawks" for their supposed ability to kill thousands of mosquitoes.
How you smell: Mosquitoes are drawn to floral scented soaps, deodorants, perfumes, and moisturizing lotions. It sounds gross, but they are also drawn to smelly feet or socks and your sweat or skin odor; and they will use these skin-derived chemical signals and smells to find you.
Mosquitoes dislike the smell and taste of the vinegar, and will leave you alone so you can enjoy your BBQ. So if you're interested in seeking a natural insect repellent, try out this recipe which uses apple cider vinegar as a base! Fill your spray bottle with half water, and half apple cider vinegar.
Consider having mosquito-proof mesh fitted on windows or close windows if you can. If there's no insect screens or if you're sleeping outdoors near creeks, water holes/swamps, a river or even long grass, having mosquito nets over sleeping areas and bedding can help.
As an Insect Repellent
The camphor oil found in products like Vicks VapoRub can repel blood-sucking mosquitoes.
Natural Mosquito Remedies
Lemongrass, peppermint, rosemary, basil and lavender all naturally repel mosquitos. Planting these near your deck or around your yard can reduce a mosquito population. You can also mix essential oils from these plants with water to create a natural spray or bug repellant.
Since coffee grounds have such a pungent and intense smell, mosquitoes do not like to come near it. Mosquitoes are repulsed by all types of coffee, whether it is fresh, used, or burnt. The most effective way to use coffee grounds for mosquito control is by burning them, as it creates a stronger aroma.
Citronella Oil
Citronella (Cymobopogon nardus) is an ingredient in many repellents. This oil is also high in citronellal and geraniol, both of which repel bugs.
Light candles or lanterns.
Help keep mosquitoes away from your patio and porch by lighting candles or lanterns that contain one or more essential oils known to repel mosquitoes. These oils include: Citronella. Clove.
Spraying window cleaner directly onto small insects like ants or mosquitoes will kill them within a few moments.
It has taken decades of research, but scientists are close to working out why mosquitoes bite some people, and not others. It comes down to a complex trifecta of carbon dioxide, body temperature and body odour that makes some people more inviting to mozzies than others.
Did you know that it doesn't matter what type of skin you have or what type of blood you have? You could still get bitten by a mosquito. Here are some common myths about mosquitoes debunked.
Aedes (pronounced "aid-dees") mosquitoes are aggressive, black-and-white insects that thrive in our cities. Aedes mosquitoes are also called "ankle biters" due to their behavior of biting people near the feet.
What makes mosquitoes worse some years and better others? Many mosquitoes breed in water and they need warmer temperatures in order for eggs to hatch. Seasonal variations in rain and temperature can affect mosquito populations.
Dragonflies and damselflies: Why these vividly coloured, mosquito-eating predators are 'underrated' insects. Are dragonflies and damselflies your favourite insects? Perhaps they should be. They belong to an extraordinary group of insects that specifically target buzzing mosquitoes.
Yes, mosquitoes can bite through tight-fitting clothes, especially spandex and yoga pants. Only specific types of clothing will do for mosquito protection, so you'll want to make sure the garments fit loosely. Mosquitoes are able to easily bite through tight-fitting clothes like spandex and yoga pants.