Scents that mosquitoes hate – 7 natural, non-toxic and delightful fragrances to keep these biting insects at bay

Mosquitoes may be best associated with summer, but this pest can still pose problems when the sunny season concludes. If you live in a particularly hot climate, it is unlikely you will see the end of this notorious insect any time soon – so knowing how to get rid of mosquitoes is always useful.

Some of the most impactful prevention methods involve tedious tidying routines that can feel rigorous, not to mention the potent chemicals available over the counter to stop them from biting. However, not all anti-mosquito tactics are a chore, and some can be entirely non-toxic and a safer form of natural pest control.

There are some flowers, fruits and essential oils with uplifting scents that deter mosquitoes from your home, while filling your space with sweet scents and (in some cases) vibrant color.

7 scents that deter mosquitoes – for aromatic relief from this troublesome pest

You may know about the colors that attract or repel mosquitoes, but what about the impact of scent? Here are the eight mosquito-repellent plants, oils, and foods that make repelling mosquitos more pleasurable.

1. Marigolds

'Believe it or not, marigolds are actually one of the most effective scents that deter mosquitoes,' says the Mosquito Magician. The expert referred to a New Scientist study by researchers in the 90s that suggests this flower omits insecticides that are toxic to mosquitoes.

'Marigolds are perfectly safe to have around family and pets, but highly toxic to mosquitoes,' they say. And while it can help to introduce this flower into your yard, it is even better to use a marigold essential oil, such as this one on Amazon, that could be even more effective.

2. Eucalyptus 

Eucalyptus is one of the most hated smells among mosquitoes.

The reason these smells deter mosquitoes is because they produce chemicals that mosquitoes don't like, namely linalool and geraniol. This is why you often find scents like eucalyptus are used in soaps and candles that are used that keep bugs away from your home.

In fact, a wonderful, natural way to repel these bugs is by mixing lemon oil and eucalyptus oil - the combination is ideal for making into a natural mosquito spray. These ingredients help mask the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid, which are attractive to mosquitoes, thus making it less likely for them to find their human targets.

3. Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a refreshing summertime treat packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. But when it comes to repelling mosquitoes, it is an unsung hero because it contains a compound called nootkatone.

You can use the nootkatone in your grapefruit to deter mosquitoes from your home or garden, but it's even more than a pest deterrent. You can also use grapefruit oil, such as this one from Amazon, on your skin, instead of a chemical repellent spray from the pharmacy.

4. Mint

Mint may be a staple kitchen garden idea, but it has its uses against mosquitoes, too.

It is a super effective pest-repellent plant, as its strong scent deters many pests and insects.

It's always advisable to grow mint in pots, because it can spread quickly in the ground and takeover whole beds. Move your containers to where you like to sit outside, onto your patio or deck, and allow the plants around you to do all the hard work warding off mosquitoes.

5. Lemongrass & citronella

Lemongrass contains citronella oil – perhaps the most famous of mosquito repellent scents. But how can you introduce this plant into your scheme? You can start by knowing how to grow lemongrass in your garden, or, for a delectable solution, you can bring the kitchen.

Or why not swap your summer glass of lemonade for a chilled glass of lemongrass tea?

A more potent alternative to lemon oil, citronella has been praised for its ability to deal with flying insects for decades, also helping to get rid of fruit flies, and to get rid of wasps.

Diana Cox, founder of The Gardening Talk suggests there are two ways you can use citronella oil to make a homemade mosquito repellent. Firstly, you can combine one tablespoon of castor oil, citronella oil, and eucalyptus oil with one cup of water in a spray bottle.

‘Alternatively, you could get crafty and make your own citronella candle,’ she adds. ‘To make a homemade citronella candle, melt half a cup of paraffin wax and stir in three tablespoons of citronella oil. Pour the mixture into a jar and insert a wick. The smoke and aroma produced by the burning candle will help keep mosquitoes away.’

Diana Cox

Diana started her website as a way to help others who are new to the world of gardening and plant care. She has been growing plants since she was a little girl, and started to document her experience in gardening a few years ago.

6. Lavender 

Lavender is one of the most famous mosquito repellents, but it's easy to see its appeal. While the pest dislikes its distinctive scent, the same smell has a calming effect on humans – which is why it's often used as an essential oil for aromatherapy and meditation.

Knowing how to grow lavender in your yard or arranging it in a vase is one way to keep mosquitoes at bay. Or you can choose one of the best candles on the market, many of which are infused with this powerful scent.

7. Pine oil 

With its pleasantly woody aroma, it can be hard not to take joy in pine oil. However, while this scent will always have a place amongst the best-selling essential oils, it should have an equal spot amid your decorating ideas too.

The scent of the pine oil will overpower and confuse a mosquito's senses, limiting its ability to detect you and keeping you safe from bites.

To use pine oil as a mosquito repellent, one good way is to place rags with pine oil outside of your windows, porch, or doors. You'll have to refresh them every few days during the height of summer.

As well as employing these potent scents to deter mosquitoes, there are many other ways to get rid of mosquitoes from inside a house naturally. As we have covered above, even when it comes to pest control there are so many ways to explore tackling this natuarally and without the use of harmful chemicals. If you're interested in reading more on this topic, ou might find out guide to creating a non-toxic garden useful.