Beat the Buzz: Natural ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away
Warmer weather invites outdoor fun, but also brings mosquitoes.These pests can quickly ruin a summer day. Fortunately, there are natural ways to deter them and enjoy the sunshine.
When choosing natural insect repellents for skin request, select products registered by the Environmental Protection agency (EPA), advises Joseph Conlon, a retired U.S. Navy entomologist and technical adviser for the American Mosquito Control Association. If you have sensitive skin, test a small drop of essential oil on your forearm first.
Seven Natural Mosquito Repellents
- Lemon Eucalyptus: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classifies lemon eucalyptus as an effective active ingredient. Conlon notes it shouldn’t be used on children under 3.
- Catnip Oil: A 2024 study showed catnip essential oil, specifically nepetalactones, effectively repels mosquitoes, even in low concentrations. The EPA approves this oil, providing up to seven hours of protection, according to Conlon.
- Cinnamon Oil: Research indicates cinnamon essential oil, with its cinnamaldehyde compounds, interferes with mosquito behavior.A lab study showed a 10% cinnamon oil lotion provided over an hour of complete protection.
- Clove Oil: Lab tests suggest clove oil is a highly effective plant-based repellent, thanks to its active compound, eugenol, which disrupts a mosquito’s ability to detect humans.
- IR3535: This synthetic amino acid, found in many cream repellents, interferes with a mosquito’s sense of smell. Conlon says it’s non-toxic and offers up to eight hours of protection.
- Use Smoke: Smoke from plant-based coils, incense, or fire pits can reduce mosquito activity by disrupting their sensory cues. These methods work best outdoors and with airflow.
- eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Prevent this by:
- Unclogging roof gutters
- Emptying kids’ pools
- Changing bird bath water weekly
- Ensuring trash can lids don’t collect rain
- Storing containers upside down
Several natural methods can repel mosquitoes by disrupting their ability to detect humans. Plant-based oils, smoke, and airflow interfere with mosquito sensory cues. These approaches are best for short-term outdoor use and require frequent reapplication. For higher-risk situations, combining natural strategies or using EPA-approved repellents provides stronger protection.
